Aromatherapy Expert Views

Dr. Tim Robinson discusses the use of aromatherapy, specifically smell retraining with essential oils, as a potential treatment for loss of smell and taste in Long Covid patients. He mentions organizations like Fifth Sense and Absent that provide smell training kits, which include essential oils such as lemon, rose, eucalyptus, and cloves. Patients are advised to sniff these oils twice daily for at least four months, based on a 2009 study. Dr. Robinson also explains that the loss of smell and taste may be due to damage in the pathways from the receptor cells to the brain caused by the virus or micro clots, and recovery may take time as cells regenerate or clots clear.

Anna Marsh discusses the use of aromatherapy, specifically essential oils, as part of a broader approach to managing symptoms related to Long Covid and other conditions like mold illness and chronic fatigue. She suggests methods such as steam inhalation, adding essential oils to baths, and using diffusers to support nasal colonization and sinus health. Marsh emphasizes the importance of starting with small doses, especially for sensitive individuals, and gradually increasing the amount to avoid adverse reactions. She also mentions the potential use of antimicrobial supplements and other treatments alongside aromatherapy to address gut and vaginal health issues.