| Randall Agee

Treatment of Croup with Essential Oils


Croup often accompanies a cold and is characterized by a harsh cough that sounds a bit like a barking seal. Because it causes the voice box. bronchial passages, and windpipe to swell, croup makes breathing difficult and the voice raspy. Most cases respond well to natural remedies. If the croup lasts longer than five days, your child needs to be evaluated by a physician.

Croup Relief Rub:


Frankincense and peppermint essential oil help soothe congestion and ease the discomfort caused by constant coughing. Double the amount of carrier oil in this treatment if you are using it on an infant.



  1. In a dark- colored glass bottle, add the carrier oil along with the frankincense and peppermint essential oils, and shake well to blend.
  2. Using your fingertips, apply the rub to child’s chest, back and bottoms of feet or inside ankles, and massage it into the skin.
  3. Repeat this treatment every 1 to 3 hours as needed to relieve coughing. To ensure small children do not transfer the oils from their chests to their eyes, dress them in fitted t-shirts.

Calming Peppermint Bath:

Peppermint essential oil calms coughs and eases congestions. This bath allows some of the oil to penetrate the skin while vapors enter the lungs. Draw a warm bath and add 4-6 drops of peppermint essential oil to the running water. Allow the child to relax and play in the tub for at lease 15 minutes, taking care to keep the water out of eyes. If bathing a baby with croup, use just 2-3 drops of peppermint essential oil.

Tags: Ailments