There are a number of respiratory illnesses that an animal can contract. Infections like Feline Cat Flu and Canine Kennel Cough can settle in the respiratory tract. Remedies that aid the nose and lungs can help support our animal companions with respiratory problems.
Essential oils and the aromatic oils in herbs work really well on the respiratory system. Inhaling these aromatic compounds have anti microbial, decongestant, anti-inflammatory and expectorant action. Peppermint essential oil which is rich in menthol, is a great example of what remedies can do for the respiratory tract.
Here are some powerful and effective essential oils that can be inhaled to reap their therapeutic actions:
- Bay Laurel – combats infection and an expectorant.
- Bergamot – helps to counter airborne infections to stop the spread to others.
- Clove – combats infection and clears airways
- Eucalyptus – Opens and decongests airways, anti microbial and aids when a fever is present.
- Peppermint – Opens airways, decongests and anti – inflammatory.
- German Chamomile – anti-allergy.
- Frankincense – antimicrobial, promotes deep breathing and calms.
- Garlic – decongestant and boosts immunity.
- Sandalwood – calms fear of feeling ill, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory.
- Thyme – anti microbial, expectorant and useful with dry coughs.
There are some wonderful aromatic herbs that can be offered to animals during a respiratory crisis, these include:
- Liquorice Root – anti microbial, demulcent, expectorant, anti-inflammatory.
- Mullein – soothing, demulcent, expectorant and anti-inflammatory.
- Thyme – anti microbial , expectorant and useful with dry coughs.
- Aniseed – reduces cough.
- Wild Cherry Bark – expectorant.
- Marshmallow Root/Leaf – mucilage, soothing inflammation in respiratory tract, eases sore throat and coughs.
These are some wonderful natural remedies to have available to your animal. It is always best to try gentle and natural things first, however if you find that you are dealing with something serious, contact your holistic animal practitioner or holistic veterinarian for testing.