Expert: Rachel A. Markel - 5/10/2009

Question
QUESTION: How is cocoa butter used for those with breathing problems (asthma, emphasema) and which aroma therapy might I try? thanks

ANSWER: Dear Bill,

Hello and thank you for taking the time to contact me with your question.  To be  honest with you I have never read any research indicating that cocoa butter is used for breathing problems.  Please feel free to send me a link to your references, I am always happy to learn something new!

My primary concern with regards to COPD is an evaluation of your home environment.  It is extremely important to eliminate the use of chemicals, insecticides, air fresheners and commercially produced cleaning products if you haven't already done so.

Personal care products are also an area of concern.   You  should be using plant based, fragrance free, chemical free products.

With regards to using essential oils, I would really like to know more about your symptoms as they may range from emphysema, chronic bronchitis and chronic asthmatic bronchitis.

There are several essential oils that I can recommend that support breathing and the respiratory system in general.  Please write back to me and describe your primary symptoms.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Best regards,

Rachel Markel
Co-Founder
www.eoilco.com
www.eoilcolab.com
www.GreenTerpene.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Primary symptoms are periodic wheezing and shortness of breath. Emphysema I guess. I use Rx Spiriva and Xopenex inhalers. I am 67 and otherwise good health. Cocoa butter was mentioned by an MD on tv as an aid with breathing problems. So...?
Thanks Bill

Answer
Dear Bill,

Thank you for getting back to me, I am sorry to hear about the symptoms that you are unfortunately exeperiencing.

With regards to the wheezing and shortness of breath there are a couple of essential oils that I have successfully used for clients.  Pure and natural eucalytpus oil is relatively cheap but extremely useful.  Eucalyptus offers antiseptic and expectorant properties just to mention a few.  Cypress essential oil is also indicated for bronchial spasms that my cause or trigger wheezing and shortness of breath.  Finally, peppermint essential oil can help to open upper and lower respiratory passage ways.

The best way to use the essential oils above is through direct inhalation by placing a drop or two in a cotton tissue or handkerchief.  Place directly up to the nostrils and inhale deeply as needed.  If you can tolerate steam then I would advise you to heat up 1 cup of water, do not boil.  Add 1 drop of essential oil to the water and inhale deeply for 15-20 minutes.  Make sure to rest in between, coming up for regular air.  You can also cover your head with a towel to capture more of the volatile steam.  Finally, a humidifier can be used to medicate the air by adding essential oils to the pan of water.

In addition to the methods of use mentioned I previously indicated how important it is to be vigilant of chemical exposures in your house or neighborhood.  According to the EPA indoor air is often 9-10 times more polluted than outdoors.  If you have any questions about replacing products such as insecticides, pesticides, personal care, pet care or anything else that you might use do not hesitate to ask.


Wishing you the best,

Rachel