People have been relying on essential oils to help take care of aches and pains for thousands of years. And with good reason. These oils—whether used solo or in a blend—are the same way our mothers and grandmothers did. Here are a timeless trio of essential oil remedies—straight from my book, The Healing Powers of Essential Oils (Kensington) for what ails you.

Got the Sniffles? Whiff Lavender

During the winter months when the temperature drops and snow showers hit, we huddle inside, and colds are common at Tahoe if for no other reason than we’re closer to people and their germs. Everyone knows this. What’s less known is that there’s an essential oil that can help bolster your immunity acting as a natural remedy to help keep the common cold at bay.

What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Take a lavender-scented bath. Mix 3 drops of essential lavender oil with ¼ cup of jojoba or almond oil. Put the concoction into a tub filled with water.

Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Lavender is a calming bacteria-fighting essential oil. Its anti-inflammatory compounds can help to keep you safeguarded against germs.

Coughing & Hacking? Go See Rosemary

What’s more irritating than that tickle in your throat that makes you cough? Not much, except maybe a hacking cough that brings an unhealthy dollop of pain along for the ride. Don’t worry. There’s an oil that can help.

What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Combine 4 drops of rosemary essential oil into a diffuser or vaporizer. Or simply put the oil onto a handkerchief and take a whiff or two.

Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Rosemary can be an aid to lessen the need to cough with due credit to a compound called 1,8-cinole. It may calm the muscles in the respiratory system, preventing coughing.

Sore Throat? Lemons To Ease The Pain

A sore throat is an unwelcome misery that makes itself known whenever you talk and swallow. It may be a sign you’re coming down with a cold or flu (think lavender) or it could be a byproduct of seasonal allergies or simply talking too much. Whatever the cause, thankfully there is an essential oil remedy.

What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Try putting 1 drop of lemon oil in 8 ounces of hot water. Add 1 teaspoon raw honey for taste. Repeat twice daily.

Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: The oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This popular oil also may trigger saliva, which can keep the throat hydrated. The combined impact will help ease the pain.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series. The new, revised 2nd ed. of a popular Healing Powers book, 2026 is ready for pre-order, and The Healing Powers of Olive Oil, 3rd ed. is in progress. She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is http://www.calorey.com