Strengthening The Immune System Naturally The Fun & Easy Way

By Caryn Gehlmann, Clinical Aromatherapist

A strong immune system is vital for overall well-being and longevity. Without it, we wouldn’t be able to fight off colds, viruses, bacteria, parasites, and more. So I was thrilled by a recent question that combines two great topics: strengthening the immune system naturally and why walking in the woods is so therapeutic.

I’ve got to admit that sometimes your questions challenge us, but in a good way. Like this one from Jerry, “Which oil, or oil blend would you consider to be the best bet for strengthening the immune system naturally? I have twice tried your Forest Blend because once I spent several days in Sequoia National Park among many pine and cedar trees. The aroma of the trees was wonderful, and it seemed to have a very noticeable positive impact on me. After trying the Forest Blend twice, it seems there is no noticeable positive effect. Also, the aroma of the Forest Blend does not smell as good to me as when I was in Sequoia. I am curious about what alternatives you think would be worth trying.”

First, I have to give kudos to Jerry for not giving up, because one blend didn’t work for him. With a little patience and experimentation, and a little help from us, he’s going to find one that will!

In this Q&A with Caryn, we’ll explore in more detail why walking and breathing deeply in the forest has wonderful benefits for strengthening the immune system naturally. Also, you can read some of our previous posts on this topic:

• Introducing “Forest Bathing” Essential Oils
• Woodsy Essential Oils: Maximizing Nature’s Benefits
• Essential Oils for Immune System Support Health

One thing we have to take into consideration is that each forest has its unique aroma because of the variety of trees living there, as well as, the way the sun, rain and time of year affects it. As he said, California’s Sequoia National Park has sequoias, pines and cedars. So it’s no wonder that e3’s Forest Blend doesn’t capture the aroma he remembers. Our blend is a combination of Cedarwood Atlas, Cypress, Douglas Fir (Oregon’s state tree), Pine, Black Spruce, and Vetiver.

And while all of these essential oils have immune supportive properties, if they don’t produce that ahhhh! moment for you, then the parasympathetic system isn’t fully activated.

Remember, too, there is never one answer for any concern. For example, was the client walking through the park when he benefited so much? According to Harvard Medical School, “walking boosts immune function. Their study showed that those who walked at least 20 minutes a day, at least 5 days a week, had 43% fewer sick days than those who exercised once a week or less. And if they did get sick, it was for a shorter duration, and their symptoms were milder.” So, incorporating a walking program with aromatherapy might be an answer to his question about strengthening the immune system naturally.

A key takeaway from his question is: If one essential oil isn’t working for you, explore others with similar, well-known immune-supporting properties and a connection to the natural aromas you enjoy.

Here are some alternatives to consider:

Cedarwood Atlas or Cedarwood USA are both high in phytoncides, especially sesquiterpenes, which have immune-boosting and calming properties. Incorporating Cedarwood oil could evoke the forest experience you’re seeking while also offering immune-boosting properties.

Eucalyptus Globulus and Eucalyptus Radiata contain cineole, a type of phytoncide that has respiratory and immune-supporting benefits. Both of these oils are known for their immune-supporting and respiratory health benefits. They could provide the fresh, invigorating scent reminiscent of forest walks.

Frankincense may have lower phytoncide content compared to the tree-derived oils but it still contributes valuable antioxidant and immune-supporting effects. It has a grounding, earthy aroma that could complement the forest-like atmosphere.

Rosemary may also have lower phytoncide content compared to the tree-derived oils but it contributes valuable antioxidant and immune-supporting effects and helps clear the mind. It has a fresh, herbal scent.

Thyme, while not typically associated with trees, contains compounds like thymol that act as phytoncides with strong antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties. It also offers a herbaceous, slightly spicy aroma that can complement a forest blend.

Black Spruce trees produce a significant amount of phytoncides, particularly terpenes, which have antimicrobial and immune-boosting effects. For a more authentic forest scent, this oil can bring in that deep, woody aroma with added immune support benefits.\

In response to Jerry’s question, we formulated a special blend of these oils, which we’ve incorporated into the following spritzer recipe.

The Forest of Your Dreams Spritzer

• 5 drops Cedarwood USA
• 5 drops Eucalyptus Globulus
• 5 drops Frankincense
• 3 drops Rosemary
• 2 drops Thyme
• 3 drops Black Spruce
•  4 oz spritzer bottle
• Purified water

Combine water and essential oils in the bottle. Shake well and spray high in the air to let it filter and disperse over a greater area. This blend is relatively high in phytoncides, which are naturally occurring compounds produced by plants and trees, particularly in forests and should offer both immune support and a closer connection to the natural forest environment. You can add more oils of your choice to get the exact aroma you crave.

We really appreciate the great questions you ask. Contact us here if you have one you’d like answered. Want to learn more about essential oils – like where they come from, how they’re made and how to make your own special blends? Please feel free to download our free ebook, Listen to Your Nose – An Introduction to Aromatherapy.

Tree  photos by Megan Clark and David Bruyndonckx