In recent years, it has become common to hear of countermeasures and precautions to prevent health damage caused by “PM 2.5” (aka particle pollution), but the particulate matter hidden in the air is at its peak in early spring.

Today, with aromatherapy, I will introduce the essential oils effective for
cleaning the air to help with respiratory diseases such as PM 2.5 and airborne viruses.

PM 2.5 is a microparticulate substance with a dynamic diameter of less than 2.5 μm, which is smaller than pollen and only around 1/30 of the thickness of a single hair. However, there is still a possibility of health damage due to the concentration of this substance in the air.

It is likely to cause respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis, and is considered to be one of the air pollutants related to health risks for pneumonia, lung cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Here is some interesting research that considers the possibility of aromatherapy as a measure to prevent air pollution damage by PM 2.5.

Blends of essential oils used in this experiment are mint, eucalyptus, spruce and frankincense.
Experimental results have reported that the essential oil ingredients mixed thus resulted in a reduction of the inflammation of respiratory diseases caused by PM 2.5.

In another report, mint was shown to have analgesic effects. Eucalyptus was also reported to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects * 1 * 2, and some experimental results also recognize its antiviral action.

Also, since Frankincense and Spruce contain α-pinene, you can experience a forest bathing effect, boosting immunity and giving you relaxation and refreshment.
Frankincense has a proven anti-inflammatory effect, and spruce extracted from evergreen trees contains bornyl acetate and can be expected to have an effect to relieve respiratory inflammation.

There is convincing evidence that these blends are effective in reducing the inflammation of respiratory diseases.

The blend used in the experiment is recommended, but here, instead of spruce, we use the essential oil from Japanese cypress containing bornyl acetate. You can make a blended aroma and use a diffuser to distribute the smell around your work or living space.

Aromatic blend for PM2.5

• Peppermint 　1 drop
• Eucalyptus radiata　2 drops
• Frankincense　1 drop
• Hinoki　2 drops

Follow the instructions and use it as often as you feel you need it, such as before going to bed, when you want to refresh, or when you want to change the atmosphere. However, be careful about adequate ventilation of the room and also diffuser hygiene.