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 Natural Awakenings Lancaster-Berks

Viral D: A Natural Way to Fight Sinus Congestion

Oct 30, 2016 11:14PM ● By Kyle Hass

With fall allergies here and the cold and flu season right around the corner, many people may be temped to reach for over-the counter drugs to find relief; however, Mother Nature’s medicine cabinet is full of remedies such as essential oils that can combat sinus congestion just as effectively, without synthetic chemicals or side effects.

Debra Stoltzfus, the owner of Inshanti Wellness Spa, in Kinzers, started crafting her own line of Inshanti essential oil blends 13 years ago. Among the most popular variety is Viral D. The combination of Eucalyptus dives, Peppermint, Rosemary, Ravintsara, Lavender, Spike Lavender, Green Myrtle and Inula graveolens—a therapeutic, mucolytic oil that breaks up old hardened mucous—is designed for protection against viruses and bacteria.

Stoltzfus was inspired to make Viral D after noticing how many people suffer from chronic sinus infections. “For ages, people have been using essential oils to protect themselves from viruses and bacteria, so I put a blend together to be antiviral, antibacterial and good for removing mucus,” she says. “I use Inula graveolens, which is the strongest mucolytic oil there is.”

Similar to a fine wine, factors such as climate, cultivation and harvest techniques and method of oil production can affect the quality of the finished product. The essential oils that Stoltzfus uses are sourced from plants grown sustainably and without pesticides on farms all over the world. To further guarantee purity, she will also send out her oil products to be tested through chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS) testing, a process where a chemist tests the product to be sure it is not adulterated.

Stoltzfus says Viral D can be used every day to ward off viruses and bacteria, thus avoiding antibiotics. The oil blend can be inhaled through steam by putting three to five drops in a bowl of steaming water; it can be used in an essential oils diffuser; and on the go by applying a drop on a cloth or cotton ball and smelling the aroma. Stoltzfus notes that Viral D should not be used on infants or children under 8, nor should it be applied directly to the nose, ears or other orifice.

“It just breaks through the thickest mucous, so it’s great for congestion,” Stoltzfus says, “the anti-infectious properties of the oils is huge, and it works.” Viral D is available for purchase at Inshanti Wellness Spa or online.

Inshanti Wellness Spa is located at 48 Slaymaker Hill Rd., in Kinzers. For more information, call 717-587-3990 or visit Inshanti.com.

Sheila Julson is a Milwaukee-based freelance writer and contributor to Natural Awakenings magazines throughout the country.