fumigations

The fumigation, or more simply fumigation, is a practice of ancient origins, based on the reduction of a substance in fumes or vapors for therapeutic or disinfectant purposes (of the body, but also of the spirit).

The fumigation technique is quite simple: the diseased part is placed above a container containing a given substance in hot infusion; so, to carry out fumigation of the respiratory tract, it will be enough to cover one's head with a cloth, to prevent the steam from dispersing, and to breathe openly the fumes that rise from the container. Approximately every two minutes it is advisable to re-emerge and breathe normally the ambient air, to then repeat the entire operation two or three more times. The fumigations are therefore particularly indicated in the presence of pharyngitis, laryngitis, asthma, bronchial diseases, etc. In all these circumstances phytotherapeutic products based on balsamic substances dissolved in water are particularly useful. Depending on the desired action, there are emollient, stimulating, dry fumigations, etc.

Today there are many types of fumigators on the market that artificially create vapors derived from the drug used. In the phytotherapic sector balsamic essential oils are often used, which must however be used in rather low concentrations, in the order of 5-6 drops per liter of hot water, but not boiling, in order to avoid the risk of laryngospasm especially in children. At higher concentrations, without exceeding 10 drops, balsamic essential oils can be dissolved in bath water to achieve the same therapeutic effect. In general, it is important to avoid DIY, since fumigations with essential oils can be contraindicated to different categories of subjects, such as asthmatics. More generally, these are preparations with a low therapeutic index, which as such may even result in non-free sale; particular attention should also be paid to prolonged use, generally to be avoided. When, on the other hand, you always have to resort to do-it-yourself advice, it is best to set aside fumigations with essential oils and use infusions of various vegetable drugs (leaves, flowers, etc.), to add to boiling water and then breathe in the vapors. Against this cold, 30 grams of eucalyptus leaves in half a liter of boiling water may suffice.

Basil, eucalyptus, lavender, lemon, marjoram, rosemary, tea tree and thyme are particularly indicated in case of cold or sinusitis. Anise, chamomile, peppermint and ginger are used when an anti-inflammatory effect is sought, while very hot fumigates with a simple decoction of mallow or marshmallow are indicated in the presence of sore throat, for their ability to soothe the inflamed epithelium.

The fumigations of the tincture of benzoin, an arboreal or shrubby plant, belonging to the Styracaceae family, are useful for treating colds, coughs and pharyngitis. The same goes for the fumigations of sodium benzoate, which soothe the inflamed epithelium and carry out a slight expectorant action. The official Italian pharmacopoeia contains instructions for preparing a concentrated solution for fumigations, based on essences of eucalyptus, mint and Scots pine; the dosage is 10 drops per liter of boiling water.

Infusions for fumigations against colds

Suffumigi against colds
Eucalyptus (leaves)	50 g
Peppermint (leaves)	25 g
Eufrasia (aerial parts)	25 g
4% infusion (four grams of mixture per 100 ml of water): bring the water to a boil, pour it over the mixture, boil for a couple of minutes and inhale the hot vapors, wrapping the head and forehead with a towel to don't waste them. Do 5 or 6 fumigations a day.

Suffumigi against colds
Eucalyptus (leaves)	10 g
Scots pine (buds or shoots)	10 g
Timo (parts of areas)	5 g
Sage (leaves)	5 g
5% infusion (5 g of mixture per 100 ml of water): bring the water to a boil, pour it over the mixture, boil for 7 minutes and inhale the hot vapors, wrapping the head and forehead with a towel so as not to disperse them . To increase the formation of vapors add one gram of sodium bicarbonate. Do 5 or 6 fumigations a day.