With no viable treatment options from Western medicine, many parents are concerned about their children’s health and the possibility of being infected with EV-D68. As is often the case, Mother Nature has provided a possible answer to what ails us — antiviral essential oils and extracts. In 2012, Tunisian researchers investigated the activity of eight eucalyptus species against several pathogenic organisms. The researchers concluded that eucalyptus oils that are rich in the compound 1,8-cineole and other minor compounds “may serve as potential candidates against enterovirus infections.” Their research was published in the June 2012 edition of BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Eucalyptus globulus is commonly used to produce essential oil and contains up to 83 percent 1,8-cineole (also known as eucalyptol). Steam inhalation or diffusion of eucalyptus may allow essential oil particles to enter the lung and respiratory system to combat enteroviruses. In addition, the topical application of eucalyptus on the chest and back may support normal respiratory system function. Eucalyptus should not be used by those with epilepsy, or on children under age six — very rarely, children under age six could experience respiratory distress or central nervous system problems with eucalyptus. Another report published in the October 2005 issue of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology concluded that ursolic acid—a compound found in basil and rosemary extracts—exhibits strong antiviral activity against enterovirus 71 (EV71). The study authors concluded that ursolic acid protected against both the infection and spread of EV71. Rosemary and basil — both of which have ursolic acid — may be applied topically to the chest and upper back to create a synergistic effect with the eucalyptus. They may also be diffused or steam inhaled. Rosemary should not be used by children under the age of six, nor by those with epilepsy. Essential oils should almost always be diluted in a carrier oil before applying to the skin to avoid irritation. For children under age six myrtle and ginger are both antiviral and respiratory supporting oils, which may be used in place of eucalyptus and rosemary.
Posted on: Sun, 19 Oct 2014 12:27:21 +0000