Breathe Easy. Live Well

A Transformative Guide to Respiratory Health

Breathe Easy, Live Well is not just a book—it’s a masterclass in reclaiming the simple yet profound joy of breathing freely. Drawing from his decades-long experience as a chiropractor and his passion for integrative wellness, Andrew introduces readers to the potent power of aromatherapy nasal inhalers and their natural heroes: terpenes.

Unlocking Nature’s Pharmacy

This book bridges the gap between traditional healing and modern science by delving into the intricate roles of terpenes—the aromatic compounds that bring therapeutic power to essential oils. From their ability to thin mucus and clear airways to their capacity for boosting immunity and calming inflammation, terpenes are revealed as the unsung champions of respiratory health.

Tailored Solutions for Every Need

Whether you’re looking to prevent seasonal colds, tackle acute symptoms of congestion, or manage chronic respiratory issues, Andrew offers step-by-step protocols that empower you to take control of your well-being. Each chapter is packed with actionable insights, making it easy for anyone—from novices to health enthusiasts—to integrate these natural remedies into daily life.

Science Meets Simplicity

What sets this book apart is its balance of scientific depth and practical application. You’ll discover how terpenes like eucalyptol, menthol, and linalool work at a cellular level, breaking down biofilms, relaxing bronchial muscles, and enhancing mucociliary clearance. The result? Clearer airways and a more resilient immune system.

A Timely Call for Self-Care

In today’s economically challenging times, Andrew makes a compelling case for becoming informed, responsible self-care advocates. Aromatherapy nasal inhalers emerge as a cost-effective, accessible solution, combining affordability with proven efficacy. This book is not just about breathing better—it’s about empowering yourself and your loved ones with the tools to live well.

Why You’ll Love This Book:

Educational yet approachable: Perfect for readers of all backgrounds.

Comprehensive: Covers prophylactic, acute, and chronic respiratory care.

Actionable tips: Includes practical protocols and safety guidelines.

Inspiring: A heartfelt dedication to the author’s journey and the communities he serves.

Breathe Easy, Live Well is more than a guide; it’s an invitation to rediscover the vitality that comes from breathing deeply and living fully. Whether you’re seeking relief, prevention, or empowerment, this book is a breath of fresh air.

Transcript

1. Breathe Easy. Live Well. Nasal Inhalers & the Power of Terpenes Andrew S. Bonci, BA, DC Clinical Practice Overland Park Kansas
2. Acknowledgments MCPA District 2 Dr. Russ Matthias (Chiropractic Bard) Dr. Ragan Fairchild-Bonci (Retired) 1 www.drbonci.com
3. Disclosures I have no special interest in selling you anything, not even the book I have authored on this subject. Relax and enjoy yourself as I know that there are other places that you’d rather be. 2 www.drbonci.com
4. Available on Amazon.com References in book.
5. www.drbonci.com 4 Disclaimer The clinical benefits and mechanisms described in this discussion are based on preclinical research and scientific exploration. These claims are not associated with any specific company or product, nor have they been evaluated or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This information is provided solely for educational purposes and should never be used as a substitute for professional healthcare advice. If you are experiencing severe or persistent symptoms, it is essential to consult with your physician or a qualified healthcare provider for appropriate evaluation and treatment.
6. Picture the sharp decline in quality of life caused by acute lung inflammation or the suffocating grip of bronchitis brought on by colds, flu, or allergies. These examples drive home a universal truth: to live well, we must be able to breathe easily (Preface). Breathe Easy. Live Well. 5 www.drbonci.com
7. Breathe Easy. Live Well. The breath, I have come to understand, is far more than an involuntary process. It is a mirror of vitality, resilience, and balance. Its absence or compromise diminishes not only physical movement but also emotional and mental well- being (Preface). 6 www.drbonci.com
8. Introduction At the heart of this journey lies the fascinating chemistry of terpenes. These unsung heroes are nature’s messengers, defenders, and allies, weaving their way into our lives through the comforting scents of lavender, the sharp tang of citrus, and the crisp clarity of pine (p. 8-9). 7 www.drbonci.com
9. Aromatic Language of Nature Terpenes are the natural storytellers of the plant world. These tiny, aromatic molecules are responsible for the delightful scents of flowers, drawing pollinators with their sweet allure. But their magic doesn’t stop in the garden. They play a significant role in human culture, too (p. 11). 8 www.drbonci.com
10. Why Terpenes Matter The diversity of scents is rooted in the chemistry of terpenes, which range from simple to complex molecular structures (p. 12). Terpenes interact with your cells, influencing mood, reducing stress, soothing inflammation, and even supporting your immune system (p. 12). 9 www.drbonci.com
11. Inhalation and Terpenes Inhaling terpenes is one of the fastest ways to experience their benefits. With an absorption rate between 30-60%, depending on the terpene, inhalation is ideal for situations needing fast relief, like easing stress or boosting your mood (p. 8). 10 www.drbonci.com
12. Mucolytic Action
13. Decreasing Mucus Viscosity When mucus is thick and tenacious, it clings to your airways, making it hard to expel. Terpenes alter the mucus’s structure, reducing its viscosity and turning it into something more manageable (pp. 14-15). 1,8-Cineole Menthol Limonene 12 www.drbonci.com
14. Regulating Mucin Gene Expression Mucin is the main protein in mucus, and sometimes, your body makes too much of it. Terpenes can dial down this overproduction by regulating mucin-related genes like MUC2 and MUC19 (p. 15). 1,8-Cineole Menthol 13 www.drbonci.com
15. Enhancing Mucociliary Clearance Ciliated cells lining your airways act like tiny sweepers, moving mucus out of your lungs and toward your throat. Terpenes stimulate these cilia, boosting their activity to clear mucus more efficiently (p. 15). 1,8-Cineole α-Pinene 14 www.drbonci.com
16. Reducing Goblet Cell Hyperplasia Goblet cells are responsible for producing mucus, but when they go into overdrive, they can create more problems than solutions. Terpenes help regulate their activity (p.16). 1,8-Cineole 15 www.drbonci.com
17. Facilitating the Cough Reflex Once mucus is loosened and mobilized, it needs to be expelled. Thinner mucus makes coughing more productive and less exhausting (p. 16). Limonene Menthol 16 www.drbonci.com
18. Relaxing Bronchial Smooth Muscle When the smooth muscles lining your airways tighten up, airflow gets restricted, leaving you gasping for relief. Terpenes step in as natural muscle relaxers, helping those airways expand and restore your ability to breathe deeply (pp. 16- 17). α-Pinene 17 www.drbonci.com
19. Five Essential Oils for Mucolytic Action Nature has an answer: essential oils brimming with therapeutic terpenes that break down mucus and open up airways (p. 19). Eucalyptus Oil Peppermint Oil Tea Tree Oil Thyme Oil Oregano Oil 19 www.drbonci.com
20. Eucalyptus Oil: Mucolytic Action 1,8-Cineole: a natural mucolytic α-Pinene:relaxes bronchial muscles Limonene: eases swelling inrespiratory tract Camphor: a mucus-thinning expert (p.19) 20 www.drbonci.com
21. Peppermint Oil: Mucolytic Action Menthol: relaxes airway muscles, breaking up mucus, making breathing feel effortless Menthone: enhances airflow and reduces irritation in the nasal passages. 1,8-Cineole: a mucolytic, promotes mucus drainage (p. 20) 21 www.drbonci.com
22. Tea Tree Oil: Mucolytic Action Terpinen-4-ol: breaks down mucus, clears clogged airways 1,8-Cineole: mucus clearance decongestion α-Terpineol: expels mucus, reduces swelling in the airways. γ-Terpinene: reduces airway irritation (p. 20-21) 22 www.drbonci.com
23. Thyme Oil: Mucolytic Action Thymol: reduces mucus buildup Carvacrol: a natural expectorant 1,8-Cineole: thins mucus, soothes airways α-Pinene: relaxes bronchial muscles (p. 21) 23 www.drbonci.com
24. Oregano Oil: Mucolytic Action Carvacrol: attacks mucus buildup Thymol: breaks up mucus 1,8-Cineole: mucolytic properties ρ-Cymene: reduces nasal blockage (p. 21-22) 24 www.drbonci.com
25. Immunomodulation
26. Blocking Pro-Inflammatory Mediators When your body senses trouble, it sends out a distress signal. This signal often comes in the form of pro- inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines and enzymes, which amplify the inflammatory response. Terpenes step in like skilled negotiators, calming the chaos by silencing these mediators (p. 25). 26 www.drbonci.com
27. Anti-Inflammatory Strategies: Cytokine Regulation Terpenes like limonene (from citrus) and myrcene (found in mangoes and hops) gently muffle these alarms by reducing levels of cytokines like tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukins (IL-1β and IL-6). This quiets the inflammation and prevents unnecessary tissue damage (p. 25). 27 www.drbonci.com
28. Anti-Inflammatory Strategies: COX and LOX Inhibition Two enzymes, cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX), are responsible for creating prostaglandins and leukotrienes, powerful compounds that ramp up inflammation. Terpenes like eucalyptol (from eucalyptus) and carvacrol (from oregano) effectively block these enzymes, shutting down the production line of these inflammatory agents (p. 25). 28 www.drbonci.com
29. Modulating the Immune Response: Immune Cell Regulation Terpenes such as β-caryophyllene (found in black pepper and cloves) work their magic by activating CB2 cannabinoid receptors, which are gatekeepers of immune cell activity. When these receptors are engaged, they calm overactive immune cells like macrophages and T-cells, helping to create a more peaceful environment in inflamed tissues (p. 25). 29 www.drbonci.com
30. Modulating the Immune Response: Antioxidant Superpower Inflammation often rides alongside oxidative stress, where harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS) wreak havoc on cells. Many terpenes, including linalool (from lavender), act as antioxidants, neutralizing these troublemakers. By reducing oxidative damage, terpenes prevent the cycle of inflammation from spiraling out of control (p. 26). 30 www.drbonci.com
31. Modulating Cellular Signaling: NF-κB Pathway Inhibition Think of the NF-κB pathway as the master switch for inflammation. When flipped on, it triggers the production of inflammatory proteins. Terpenes like α-pinene (from pine trees) step in and block this switch, reducing the body’s production of inflammatory markers (p. 26) 31 www.drbonci.com
32. Modulating Cellular Signaling: MAPK Pathway Regulation The MAPK pathway is another key player in the inflammation game, driving the activation of pro- inflammatory proteins. Terpenes such as eucalyptol can dial down this pathway, putting the brakes on the inflammatory response (p. 26) 32 www.drbonci.com
33. Five Essential Oils for Immune Modulation The efficacy of these essential oils often stems from their rich terpene content, which provides anti-inflammatory benefits (p. 27) Eucalyptus Oil Peppermint Oil Tea Tree Oil Lavender Oil Rosemary Oil 33 www.drbonci.com
34. Eucalyptus Oil: Immune Modulator 1,8-Cineole: eucalyptol reduces pro- inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, calming inflammation at its source. It also inhibits COX and LOX enzymes α-Pinene: By modulating NF-κB pathways, α- pinene opens airways and reduces inflammation (p. 27). 34 www.drbonci.com
35. Peppermint Oil: Immune Modulator Menthol: regulates cytokine levels to reduce inflammation and directly soothes airway irritation Menthone: suppresses NF-κB activity, calming the inflammatory response β-Caryophyllene: Interacts with CB2 receptors, regulates immune cell activity (p. 28). 35 www.drbonci.com
36. Tea Tree Oil: Immune Modulator Terpinen-4-ol: regulates pro-inflammatory cytokines 1,8-Cineole: inhibits COX pathways β-Caryophyllene: a modulator of CB2 receptors,controls overactive immune responses, preventing unnecessary inflammation and supporting recovery (p. 29). 36 www.drbonci.com
37. Lavender Oil: Immune Modulator Linalool:targets cytokines to reduce inflammation. By modulating MAPK signaling pathways, it helps prevent inflammatory flare- ups in respiratory tissues. β-Caryophyllene: an anti-inflammatory champion (p. 29-30). 37 www.drbonci.com
38. Rosemary Oil: Immune Modulator 1,8-Cineole: reduces inflammation by inhibiting NF-κB activity α-Pinene:modulates immune activity, ensuring a balanced inflammatory response Borneol: anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects (p. 30). 38 www.drbonci.com
39. Antibacterial Action
40. The Bacterial Fortress: Biofilm Imagine bacteria cloaked in an impenetrable fortress, thriving in stubborn infections that resist even the strongest antibiotics. These strongholds, known as biofilms, represent one of modern medicine’s greatest challenges (p. 32). 40 www.drbonci.com
41. How Biofilms Form Step 1: Sticking to Surfaces: Bacteria latch onto surfaces using tiny, sticky structures called adhesins. Step 2: Building the Matrix:Bacteria produce a sticky shield made of proteins, sugars, and DNA, creating a strong, protective environment. Step 3: Talking It Out: Bacteria use a process called quorum sensing to coordinate their behavior (p. 33). 41 www.drbonci.com
42. Why Biofilms are Hard to Beat As biofilms mature, they develop complex structures that make them harder to penetrate. Eventually, parts of the biofilm break off, spreading bacteria to new areas and creating fresh infections (p. 33). 42 www.drbonci.com
43. Why Biofilms are Hard to Beat The biofilm acts as a barrier that traps antimicrobial agents, preventing them from reaching the bacteria within. Breaking through this shield is essential to effectively treating biofilm-related infections — and terpenes are emerging as natural solutions to this challenge (p. 33). 43 www.drbonci.com
44. Disrupting the Matrix Structure Certain terpenes have demonstrated a remarkable ability to target and weaken these protective structures, leaving biofilms vulnerable to treatment. (pp. 33-34). Thymol Carvacrol 1,8-Cineole 44 www.drbonci.com
45. Degrading Existing Matricies Certain terpenes possess unique abilities to degrade this already-established shield, destabilizing its structure and leaving pathogens exposed to immune responses and therapeutic agents. (pp. 34-35). Limonene α-Pinene Menthol 45 www.drbonci.com
46. Blocking Nutrient Exchange Blocking nutrient exchange not only weakens the biofilm but also creates a cascading effect. Bacteria become stressed, their defenses falter, and antimicrobial agents gain the upper hand (pp.35- 36). Thymol 46 www.drbonci.com
47. Quorum Quenching Bacteria communicate with one another using a process called quorum sensing—a kind of bacterial "group chat" where chemical signals help them coordinate their behavior. (pp.36- 37). Limonene Linalool Eugenol 47 www.drbonci.com
48. Five Essential Oils for Biofilm Disruption Essential oils, packed with bioactive terpenes, have shown remarkable potential to disrupt biofilms and support respiratory health (pp.40-43). Eucalyptus Oil Tea Tree Oil Oregano Oil Lavender Oil Thyme Oil 48 www.drbonci.com
49. Eucalypus Oil: Biofilm Disruptor 1,8-Cineole: disrupts mucus,flushes out pathogens α-Pinene: weakens biofilms’ structural integrity Camphor: reaches deep into biofilms for maximum disruption. γ-Terpinene: breaks down biofilm networks, and reinforces respiratory resilience (p. 40) 49 www.drbonci.com
50. Tea Tree Oil: Biofilm Disruptor Terpinen-4-ol: biofilm disruptor par excellence, prying apart bacterial strongholds and leaving pathogens exposed to immune responses. 1,8-Cineole: dissolves biofilms α-Terpineol: targets biofilm structures γ-Terpinene: suppresses bacterial growth, dismantles biofilm matrices (p. 41) 50 www.drbonci.com
51. Oregano Oil: Biofilm Disruptor Carvacrol: attacks biofilm structures, reduces bacterial adhesion. Thymol: destabilizes biofilm integrity γ-Terpinene: breaks biofilm networks ρ-Cymene: weakens molecular bonds within biofilm matrices, leaving bacteria exposed. α-Pinene:penetrates biofilms (pp. 41-42) 51 www.drbonci.com
52. Lavender Oil: Biofilm Disruptor Linalool: breaks down biofilm defenses, makes pathogens vulnerable to immune responses. Linalyl Acetate: softens biofilm matrices Camphor: weakens biofilms Terpinen-4-ol: targets biofilms reducing bacterial resistance. β-Caryophyllene: biofilm-disrupting roles (p. 42) 52 www.drbonci.com
53. Thyme Oil: Biofilm Disruptor Thymol: destabilizes biofilm structures Carvacrol: a one-two punch to biofilm formation and bacterial adhesion. Linalool: breaks down biofilms Alpha-Pinene: penetrates biofilms. Beta-Caryophyllene: breaks biofilm defenses (p. 43) 53 www.drbonci.com
54. Biofilm Disruption: The Terpene Advantage By targeting biofilm structures, interfering with quorum sensing, and boosting immune responses, they make pathogens vulnerable to the body’s natural defenses and therapeutic interventions. Whether it’s 1,8-Cineole, carvacrol, or linalool, these terpenes turn essential oils into powerful tools for respiratory health, offering a natural and effective path to recovery (p. 43). 54 www.drbonci.com
55. Antiviral Action
56. Nature’s Antiviral Superstars Viruses are relentless adversaries, masters of survival and deception, capable of invading our cells and commandeering them to replicate and spread. In the face of emerging viral threats and growing resistance to traditional treatments, the search for innovative, natural solutions has become a global priority (p. 45). 56 www.drbonci.com
57. Breaking Down Viral Defenses Viruses are masters of disguise and protection, using their outer shells to shield themselves from the body’s defenses. A critical concept in virology is the plaque- forming unit (PFU)—a measure of how many infectious virus particles are present. The higher the PFU, the greater the risk of infection and spread (p. 46). 57 www.drbonci.com
58. Stopping Viral Multiplication α-Pinene inhibits key enzymes required for viral RNA replication, halting the spread of viruses like influenza. β-caryophyllene disrupts the production of viral proteins necessary for assembling new virus particles (p. 46). 58 www.drbonci.com
59. Supercharging the Immune System Terpenes don’t just target the viruses—they also strengthen your body’s natural defenses, giving your immune system the upper hand. For instance, linalool, the soothing compound in lavender, activates natural killer (NK) cells, which hunt and destroy virus-infected cells before they can spread (p. 46). 59 www.drbonci.com
60. Influenza Viruses Targeted α-pinene specifically targets the RNA polymerase enzyme, which the influenza virus relies on to replicate its genetic material. β-caryophyllene inhibits protein synthesis, thus weakening the virus’s ability to spread and intensify the infection (p. 47). 60 www.drbonci.com
61. Coronaviruses Targeted Coronaviruses rely on spike proteins to latch onto host cells, a crucial first step in establishing an infection. Limonene appears to interfere with this attachment process, essentially locking the doors before the virus can get inside. Linalool targets the virus’s lipid envelope, a protective barrier that many coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, rely on for survival (p. 47). 61 www.drbonci.com
62. Five Essential Oils for Respiratory Viral Support Essential oils offer a natural, potent way to support respiratory wellness (pp. 49-53) Tea Tree Oil Eucalyptus Oil Oregano Oil Peppermint Oil Lemon Oil 62 www.drbonci.com
63. Tea Tree Oil: Respiratory Shield Terpinen-4-ol: reduces viral PFUs 1,8-Cineole: clears mucus while targeting the viral envelope γ-Terpinene: suppresses viral replication α-Terpineol: disrupts viral replication processes. β-Caryophyllene: bolsters the immune response against respiratory viruses (p. 50). 63 www.drbonci.com
64. Eucalyptus Oil: The Breathing Champion 1,8-Cineole: attacking viral PFUs, reducing their ability to replicate. α-Pinene: disrupts viral RNA replication Limonene: hinders viral binding to cells Camphor: prevents viral particles from adhering γ-Terpinene: suppresses viral replication (p. 51) 64 www.drbonci.com
65. Oregano Oil: The Viral Gladiator Carvacrol: dismantles the viral replication machinery, reducing the number of PFUs in the respiratory system. Thymol: enhances immune responses while directly dismantling viral structures. γ-Terpinene: reduces viral activity (pp. 51-52). 65 www.drbonci.com
66. Peppermint Oil: The Cooling Defender Menthol: dismantles the virus’s ability to spread Menthone: antiviral capabilities targets viral replication cycles 1,8-Cineole: Clears mucus and neutralizes viral PFUs, enhancing respiratory function β-Caryophyllene: optimizes immune responses (p. 52) 66 www.drbonci.com
67. Lemon Oil: The Citrus Defender Limonene: A natural disruptor, it breaks viral bonds and reduces PFUs, helping to halt infections in their tracks γ-Terpinene: neutralizes oxidative stress caused by viral activity α-Pinene: directly fights viral pathogens Citral: potent antiviral action breaks down viral structures (pp. 52-52) 67 www.drbonci.com
68. The Power of Terpenes: A United Front By integrating the antiviral and immune- boosting properties of terpenes like terpinen-4- ol, 1,8-Cineole, carvacrol, menthol, and limonene, these essential oils form a natural arsenal against respiratory viruses. They don’t just fight the virus. They disrupt its survival strategies, enhance immune defenses, and bring soothing relief to irritated airways (p.53). 68 www.drbonci.com
69. Make It Yourself
70. Nasal Inhalers: A Handy Solution Imagine this: you’re on a crowded flight during winter, feeling the familiar tickle of congestion creeping in. Or perhaps you’re in the middle of a busy day and need a quick moment of relief. Consider the nasal inhaler, a compact aromatherapy solution that fits snugly in your pocket or purse, ready to bring instant clarity to your sinuses whenever you need it (p. 55). 70 www.drbonci.com
71. I like NOW essential oils. www.nowfoods.com 71 www.drbonci.com
72. 72 www.drbonci.com
73. Bulk Apothecary I get many of my aromatherapy suppies from: www.bulkapothecary.com 73 www.drbonci.com
74. The Chord of Health Consider a three note musical chord: Root Oil Addresses the Main Goal Second Oil shapes the tone of the blend Third Oil will either reinforce the harmony, add a gentle dissonance or sharpen the energy 74 www.drbonci.com
75. How Many Drops? These are approximate numbers of drops. Use your clinical judgment shaped by client preference and tolerance. Root Oil: 10-15 drops Second Oil: 5 drops Third Oil: 3 drops 75 www.drbonci.com
76. Peppermint Oil Simplified Decongestant: Menthol Anti-inflammatory: β-Caryophyllene Biofilm Blocking: 1,8-Cineole Antiviral: 1,8-Cineole 76 www.drbonci.com
77. Eucalyptus Oil Simplified Decongestant: Camphor Immunne Modulator: α-Pinene Biofilm Blocking: 1,8 Cineole Antiviral: Limonene 77 www.drbonci.com
78. Lavender Oil Simplified Decongestant: Camphor Immunne Modulator: Linalool Biofilm Blocking: Terpinen-4-ol Antiviral: Linalool GABAergic/Serotonergic: Linalool 78 www.drbonci.com
79. Lemon Oil Simplified Decongestant: ***** Immunne Modulator: Limonene Biofilm Blocking: Limonene Antiviral: Citral Dopaminergic: Limonene 79 www.drbonci.com
80. Overlapping Terpenes Have you ever wondered why so many essential oils seem to offer similar benefits? If you look closer, the answer lies in their chemistry: their terpene profiles (p. 62). 80 www.drbonci.com
81. The Surprising Potential: Lavender Nasal Inhaler Linalool: Anti-biofilm, Antiviral Linalyl Acetate: Anti-Inflammatory Camphor: Decongestant, Mucolytic β-Caryophyllene: Immune Modulator (pp. 64-65) 81 www.drbonci.com
82. Recipes/Formulation Caveats Use oils high in 1,8-cineole, carvacrol, camphor, and menthol WITH CAUTION as they may result in mucosal irritation in high concemtrations. Tea Tree Oil Oregano Oil Thyme Oil Rosemary Oil Peppermint Oil 82 www.drbonci.com
83. Clinical Guidance
84. Nasal Inhalers: Key Benefits Immediate Action: Direct absorption through the nasal mucosa ensures rapid effects. Portability: Compact design allows for use anywhere, anytime. Natural Support: Essential oils and their terpenes offer a plant-based alternative for respiratory care (p. 73). 84 www.drbonci.com
85. Prophylactic Use Prophylactic use refers to the proactive application of a therapy or treatment to prevent the onset of illness or symptoms before they occur. Using it 2–3 times daily, you can ensure that the beneficial terpenes from essential oils keep your nasal passages clear, inflammation-free, and provide ongoing protection against potential pathogens (p. 74). 85 www.drbonci.com
86. When to Seek Medical Attention Fever: This could signal an infection that needs medical intervention. Severe headache: Persistent or intense headaches may indicate sinus involvement or other complications. Facial pain: This symptom can point to sinus pressure or an infection that extends beyond the nasal passages (pp. 76-77). 86 www.drbonci.com
87. Acute Respiratory Conditions Acute respiratory conditions refer to short- term issues that affect the airways, such as nasal congestion, sinus irritation, and upper respiratory infections like the common cold or flu. At the onset of symptoms, it’s crucial to act quickly. Use your inhaler up to six times daily (pp. 77-79). 87 www.drbonci.com
88. When to Seek Medical Attention Difficulty breathing: Could indicate a serious respiratory condition requiring urgent care. Chest pain: A potential sign of more severe issues, such as a lower respiratory tract infection or another complication. High fever: This symptom often signals an active infection, which may require targeted medical treatment (p. 80). 88 www.drbonci.com
89. Essential Oils for Chronic Conditions When managing chronic respiratory conditions like asthma, allergic rhinitis, or COPD, it’s essential to choose the right essential oils for sustained support (pp. 80-81). Lavender Oil Thyme Oil Rosemary Oil 89 www.drbonci.com
90. Chronic Conditions: Daily Use Integrating aromatherapy into your daily routine is a key component of managing chronic conditions. Aim to use the nasal inhaler once or twice daily to maintain consistent support for your respiratory system (p. 82). 90 www.drbonci.com
91. Chronic Conditions: Targeted Use During periods of heightened symptoms or exposure to environmental triggers—such as pollen season, cold weather, or air pollution—inhaler use can be increased strategically (p. 82). 91 www.drbonci.com
92. Personalization for Evolving Needs Schedule a monthly review with your healthcare provider to reassess the effectiveness of the essential oils and their terpene profiles. This is an opportunity to adjust the combination of oils based on your symptoms, environmental factors, or seasonal changes (p. 82). 92 www.drbonci.com
93. Recognizing Subtle Changes While essential oils are generally well-tolerated, prolonged or frequent use of nasal inhalers may lead to long-term dryness or sensitivity in the nasal passages. Another consideration is the possibility of allergic reactions (p. 83). 93 www.drbonci.com
94. Identifying Red Flags Increased reliance on the inhaler may be a sign that your underlying condition requires a different or additional treatment approach. Chronic wheezing, a lingering cough, or unexplained fatigue could indicate uncontrolled asthma, COPD exacerbation, or an undiagnosed respiratory issue (p. 83). 94 www.drbonci.com
95. Breathe Easy. Live Well. Nasal Inhalers & the Power of Terpenes Andrew S. Bonci, BA, DC Clinical Practice Overland Park Kansas