What Herbs Can You Use in a Vaporizer?

Peppermint

• The essential oil of Mentha piperita, or peppermint, has a strong, fresh menthol-rich scent and is useful for colds, flu, bronchitis and coughs as it helps to ease congestion. It also helps ease nausea and digestion problems, and helps soothe muscle aches. Those who suffer from chronic sinusitis find it helpful not only because it helps break up congestion; it also brings relief for headaches, a common ailment of sinusitis. Pregnant women should avoid peppermint internally during their first four months of pregnancy, according to consultant editor C. Norman Shealy, M.D., Ph.D., of "The Complete Illustrated Guide to Natural Home Remedies." Peppermint is potentially overly stimulating, though it is effective if burned in the room. It also reduces milk flow, so take in low doses if breastfeeding, according to Penelope Ody, author of "The Complete Medicinal Herbal."

Eucalyptus

• Made from the leaves of Eucalyptus globulus, eucalyptus essential oil has a fresh, woody, camphor-like aroma. It has antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties, and is suitable to add to a room vaporizer if someone is ill. Eucalyptus is known for its ability to clear respiratory congestion and also cools, clears and refreshes the mind, perfect for those who are feverous. Eucalyptus dives "Eucalyptus Peppermint" is also good for relieving sinus headaches and bronchitis.

Tea Tree

• Melaleauca linarifolia "Tea Tree m.l." is camphor-like and similar to eucalyptus. Added to a vaporizer, it helps respiratory conditions, and relieves nervous exhaustion and mild depression. Melaleuca alternifolia "Tea Tree m.s." has more of a warm, fresh and spicy aroma. It is also antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal, and makes a good air disinfectant. According to professional aromatherapists Katherine Graf and Joni Keim, authors of the "Therapeutic Essential Oil Guide," it is effective for colds, coughs, flu, sinusitis and bronchitis.

Lavender

• There are several kinds of lavender essential oil. Lavandula x intermedia "Grosso" and Lavandula angustifolia "Highland" are the most suitable for adding to a vaporizer. Both help to relieve respiratory congestion, and Highland is antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal. Both lavender oils have a fresh, soft and sweet herbal aroma. If looking to scent a room with a vaporizer simply for relaxation and pleasant smell, Lavandula vera "Lavender Extra Super" or French lavender, possesses the finest, sweet floral aroma of all lavenders.