This winter, coughs and colds are sweeping across Britain, with many people noticing that these illnesses are not only more severe but also lasting longer than in previous years. If you’ve observed this trend, you are certainly not alone in your experience.

Dr. Tim Bond, a chemist and natural health expert associated with Puressentiel, offers some insights into the situation. He suggests that turning to natural remedies might be an effective way to tackle these common seasonal ailments.

“This winter, coughs and colds are particularly prevalent,” Dr. Bond explains. “Our research at Puressentiel indicates that over a third of Britons have experienced a cough in the past month, while 35% have suffered from a cold. Alarmingly, a third of those affected report that their symptoms have been harsher and longer-lasting compared to previous years. These illnesses often present with symptoms such as congestion, sore throats, body aches, stuffy noses, and headaches, which can significantly disrupt daily routines.”

Dr. Bond emphasizes the importance of strengthening the immune system. “Natural remedies rich in essential oils and plant-based ingredients, like geranium oil, echinacea, eucalyptus, and lemon oil, are excellent for supporting immune health. Lemon oil, in particular, has antimicrobial properties that combat bacteria responsible for respiratory tract infections. It has been used for millennia for various health benefits, including soothing sore throats, alleviating coughs, and fighting colds and influenza.”

He further elaborates, “Modern research has shown that lemon oil possesses antibacterial capabilities against microbes such as Streptococcus, Klebsiella, Haemophilus, and Staphylococcus. It may even have potential activity against the virus causing COVID-19. Additionally, it helps break down mucus, easing congestion and clearing the airways, while also supporting overall immune health.”

“In fact, modern research has found that lemon oil has antibacterial activity that helps fight the microbes causing respiratory illnesses. These include Streptococcus, Klebsiella, Haemophilus and Staphylococcus and lemon oil may have potential activity against the virus causing COVID 19. It also helps break down mucus, which can ease congestion and clear the airways. On top of that, it supports overall immune health.”

Why essential oils work more effectively in combination

Dr Bond explained: “Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. One of the functions of essential oils in the plant itself include antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties as part of the plant’s immune system. That’s why essential oils have been extensively studied in humans. One of the key things about essential oils is that they work best in combination. When essential oils are mixed, their individual therapeutic properties can enhance one another, creating a more powerful overall effect.”

In addition to lemon oil, specific essential oils have been thoroughly researched for their respiratory benefits.

Dr Bond noted: “Firstly Echinacea, which the European Medicines Agency has confirmed can prevent and improve the symptoms of cold more rapidly, than placebo when taken early. Then there is geranium oil where research has shown that it relieves symptoms of common colds and shortened the illness’s duration.

“Research suggests that lavender oil may soothe respiratory issues by reducing inflammation of the mucous in the respiratory system. Eucalyptus oil reduces mucus and a systematic review of randomised controlled clinical trials found that eucalyptus could help with treating a cough, in particular coughs related to conditions like bronchitis and upper respiratory tract infections. Puressentiel combines key essential oils in targeted, proven formulations designed to help combat the respiratory illness that are so prevalent this winter.”