The three main oils that can help alleviate cold related problems are eucalyptus, ti-tree and lavender. These oils are all bactericidal which means they kill bacteria. If you take a bath with a few drops of ti-tree when you feel a cold coming on, you may be lucky enough to stop it in its tracks. As the cold progresses the best way to use the essential oils is via steam inhalation. Fill a bowl with boiling water and let it cool slightly so you don’t burn yourself, drop in a few drops of eucalyptus and ti-tree, cover your head with a towel and breathe deeply. Some lavender oil diffused in the bedroom will also help if you have a cough.