5 Products
Olbas Oil is a much-loved decongestant inhalant, used to relieve a blocked nose and catarrh from colds and hay fever. Its blend of natural essential oils, including menthol, eucalyptus and clove, releases soothing vapours that help you breathe more easily.
The range includes Olbas Oil, the Olbas Inhaler and Olbas for Children, in various sizes.
Browse the Olbas range below, dispatched from our UK pharmacy. Always read the label; Olbas Oil is potent, so follow the age guidance and do not use it neat on the skin or for very young babies.
Olbas Oil is a decongestant inhalant made from a blend of essential oils such as menthol, eucalyptus and clove oil. Its vapours are inhaled to help relieve a blocked or stuffy nose from colds, catarrh and hay fever.
When you inhale the vapours, the aromatic oils in Olbas create a cooling sensation that helps clear a stuffy nose and makes breathing feel easier. It eases the congestion of a cold rather than treating the cold itself.
The usual way is to put a few drops on a tissue or handkerchief to inhale, or add it to a bowl of hot (not boiling) water and breathe in the vapours - never put it directly into your nostrils. Follow the specific instructions on the pack.
Adults can add a few drops to a warm bath to release the vapours, but because it is very concentrated, use only a little and mix it in well. Keep it out of children's baths, and take care as oils can make the bath slippery.
It is best to be cautious with strong essential oils in pregnancy, so check with your pharmacist or midwife before using Olbas Oil while pregnant. They can suggest safe ways to relieve a blocked nose.
Olbas Oil is not suitable for babies under 3 months, and strong menthol and eucalyptus vapours should be kept away from young babies' faces. There is a specific Olbas for Children product for older babies and children - always follow its age guidance, and ask your pharmacist or health visitor if you are unsure.
No - essential oils such as eucalyptus and clove can be toxic to dogs, so Olbas Oil should be kept away from pets and never applied to them or used where they might breathe concentrated vapours. If your dog has breathing problems, speak to your vet.