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I’ve struggled with respiratory issues for years. As someone with asthma and seasonal allergies, keeping my airways open and healthy is incredibly important. After trying countless over-the-counter medications and remedies with limited success, I decided to take matters into my own hands by creating a custom essential oil blend specifically formulated to support respiratory health.
Why I wanted a custom blend
The main reasons I wanted to create my own respiratory blend were:
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Greater control over ingredients. With a custom blend, I can hand-pick soothing, beneficial oils and avoid anything that aggravates my system. This level of personalization is hard to find in generic drugstore brands.
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Ability to address multiple issues. I wanted a blend that could ease asthma symptoms, open up airways, reduce inflammation, and support immunity – all in one bottle. Layering single-note oils for each issue was messy and inefficient.
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More natural solution. Many OTC asthma and allergy medications come with lengthy lists of artificial chemicals and side effects. I hoped that plant-based essential oils would provide relief without taxing my system further or causing unwanted reactions.
Choosing ingredients for my blend
Creating a custom respiratory blend requires carefully selecting individual essential oils that can benefit breathing and lung health. Below are the key oils I chose and why:
Eucalyptus
- Well-documented in research for supporting upper respiratory health
- Helps clear nasal and bronchial congestion
- Refreshing, opening aroma
Peppermint
- Traditionally used to relieve chest tightness and coughing
- Invigorating scent can open airways
- Anti-inflammatory and soothing properties
Lemon
- Bright, clean scent helps dispel respiratory funk
- Assists with nasal and lung drainage
- Provides an energizing aroma
Lavender
- Calming, floral aroma
- Reduces respiratory irritation and discomfort
- Supports restful breathing
Creating my custom respiratory blend
With my ingredient list set, it was time to start blending. I used the following best practices when creating my custom respiratory oil:
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Used a carrier oil as a base. I chose fractionated coconut oil, which easily absorbs and won’t go rancid. This also dilutes the strong essential oils to skin-safe levels.
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Mindfully combined oils in small batches. I only made 5 mL (or 1 teaspoon) at a time, slowly adding drops of essential oils and taking careful notes on my blend ratios as I went. This prevented waste and allowed me to perfect my formulation.
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Tuned in to my senses. As I added new oils, I repeatedly smelled my blend to gauge its intensity and effects. I also tested small amounts on my skin to check for any irritation before moving forward. This helped me find the optimal balance.
My go-to respiratory blend
After plenty of mini batches, sensory tests, and ratio adjustments, I arrived at my winning respiratory blend recipe with the perfect note balance:
Ingredients
- 1 oz (30 mL) Fractionated Coconut Oil (carrier oil base)
- 12 drops Eucalyptus
- 8 drops Peppermint
- 6 drops Lemon
- 4 drops Lavender
I use this custom oil daily by applying a few drops to my chest, throat, temples, and palms, then inhaling deeply. The opening mint-eucalyptus notes help clear my airways immediately, while the lavender and lemon provide calm and clarity.
This simple blend has completely changed my respiratory self-care routine for the better. I can finally breathe easy, naturally, thanks to the power of plants in their purest form.