We share our best way how you can make your own herbal steam inhalation. Plus, our top safety tips for inhalations.
What is a steam inhalation and what does it benefit?
Steam inhalations are not only easy, inexpensive and effective but they can also help to reduce the symptoms we all dread when we get a respiratory infection. The warm steam helps to open up the airways and when you add certain herbs, you benefit from their immune-enhancing and cooling properties too.
The herbs can also help to moisturise the nasal passageways and loosen up any mucus in the chest and sinuses which helps relieve the sense of stuffiness. Breathe in and enjoy!
Examples of herbs to use for steam inhalations
Some common herbs used in steam inhalations include:
- Basil
- Chamomile
- Cinnamon
- Clove
- Eucalyptus
- Ginger
- Lavender
- Mullein leaf
- Oregano
- Peppermint leaves and essential oil
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Thyme
- Tea tree essential oil
- Yarrow
Making your own steam inhalation
- Level of difficulty: Easy
- Time to make: 15 minutes
Ingredients and equipment
- Boiling water
- A handful of herbs (choose a few from the list above and use a tablespoon or two of each such as: eucalyptus leaves, peppermint, rosemary, thyme and lavender)
- 2-3 drops essential oil
- A large heatproof bowl
- A towel
- Optional: Dead sea salt and lemon rind
Method
- Bring the water to the boil (enough to fill your bowl)
- Pour carefully into a large heatproof bowl
- Mix all the herbs together and place into the bowl. Add the essential oils and optional extras.
- Cover the bowl and let it steep for 10 minutes.
- Being cautious of the hot steam, place your face over the bowl and cover your head with the towel to keep the steam in.
- Close your eyes and slowly breathe in all the herbal goodness, for a maximum of 10 minutes. Do 10 breaths inhaling through your nose and out through your mouth and 10 breaths inhaling through your mouth and exhaling through your nose. On repeat.
Safety tips for steam inhalations
- If the steam gets too intense, remove your head from under the towel and take a moment and return when ready.
- Be careful of adding too much essential oil as their strength can irritate the airways.
Bibliography
- Chown V, Walker K. The Handmade Apothecary: Healing Herbal Remedies. New York: Sterling Ethos; 2018.
- Green J, Green A. The Herbal Medicine-Makers’ Handbook: A Home Manual. Berkeley: Crossing Press; 2002.
- Heron B. How To Make Articles. Earthsong Seeds. https://earthsongseeds.co.uk/blog/. Accessed April 4, 2023.
