Looking for essential oils for mucus cough? You have found the right page.
In this article, you will read about some of the best essential oils for mucus cough that are evidence-based and considered safe to use.
Read: Essential Oils for Cold
Contents
The Best Essential Oils for Mucus Cough

Here are some of the best essential oils:
1. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender oil has amazing anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties which can help to clear mucus in the airways.
It also contains an active chemical compound called linalool, which helps with oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular homeostasis. This chemical component makes this essential oil very effective for boosting the immune system and the overall health of your respiratory system.
Some studies show that there are significant therapeutic effects of Lavender essential oil on airway inflammation and mucus cell hyperplasia.
2. Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oil has natural anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral properties. While it’s not a potent decongestant like Eucalyptus or Lavender, it does provide some relief as a decongestant.
The menthol in Peppermint is known to relieve sore throat and reduce pain in the mucus membranes which can help you breathe better.
This study shows that people that inhale peppermint essential oil don’t report any improvement but they usually feel better.
3. Geranium Essential Oil
It is a volatile essential oil with a camphor-like odor. It is traditionally used to treat colds, sore throats, and bronchitis.
This study shows that inhaling Geranium essential oil can improve chest tightness, reduce mucus production, and has anti-inflammatory benefits in asthmatics.
Researchers equally found out that there’s a connection between the geranium extract and reduced cough symptoms.
4. Thyme Essential Oil
Thyme contains a monoterpene chemical called thujone, which is a potent anti-microbial and anti-fungal.
It helps relieve respiratory issues like cough, bronchitis, and congestion due to its amazing decongestant properties.
In this study, it has been found that thyme essential oil can be used as an antimicrobial agent for a couple of respiratory issues including mucus cough.
5. Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus essential oil is used to ease cough and clear mucus in the airways by stimulating the respiratory system and reducing swelling in the throat.
It also has anti-microbial as well as decongestant properties, which help to get rid of the congestion in your nose and throat.
A recent study on children shows that Eucalyptus essential oil can be used as a vapor rub to ease respiratory congestion and help children sleep better.
6. Cinnamon Essential Oil
This essential oil has been used for centuries for different medicinal purposes.
It’s also used to relieve sore throat and reduce the symptoms of runny nose and cough.
Studies show that inhaling cinnamon essential oil can help clear mucus in your airways.
Read: Essential Oils for Sleep Apnea
How to Use Essential Oils for Mucus Cough?
Here are some of the best ways you can use these essential oils:
1. Direct Application
- Mix essential oils with 3-5 drops of carrier oil such as coconut oil
- Apply the preferred essential oil in the area around the nose
- Wait for a few hours before washing it out
2. Inhaling
- Add a few drops of your preferred essential oil to a bowl of hot water
- Now Breathe in oil-infused steam
- Do it 2-3 times a day to get the full benefits
3. Using a Humidifier/Diffusor
- Start by adding a few drops of your preferred essential oil in a diffusor
- Now spray the droplets in the air and inhale in this air
Side Effects!
Common side effects include:
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Skin irritation
- Eye redness
The Bottom Line!
The above-mentioned essential oils for mucus cough are some of the best and safest essential oils that you can use.
However, these essential oils are usually safe for most people but there are some precautions you should be aware of before applying them on your skin or inhaling their vapors.
The content present on this page has not been evaluated by any medical authorities e.g FDA. All the information present is solely for informational purposes and is not a substitute for the medical advice provided by your physician. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease or illness.

I am a medical student (MD) and a professional blogger. My aim is to help and educate people about essential oils and how they can be beneficial in improving overall health if used in a proper way.