Aromatherapy and the use of aromatic plant oils—such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree oil—have a long tradition in many cultures for alleviating symptoms of the common cold. Historically, these essential oils have been inhaled or applied in diluted form as chest rubs to help clear nasal congestion, soothe coughs, and provide a sensation of relief. The rationale behind their use is largely based on traditional medicine practices and anecdotal evidence. For example, eucalyptus oil has been used in Australia as a traditional remedy for respiratory ailments, and menthol, derived from peppermint oil, is a classic ingredient in over-the-counter cold rubs. Some laboratory studies have shown that essential oils like tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil possess antiviral activity against certain pathogens in vitro. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and most evidence for efficacy in treating or preventing colds is anecdotal or comes from small or low-quality studies. The primary benefit of aromatherapy in colds appears to be symptomatic relief—particularly of congestion and perceived improvement in breathing—rather than direct antiviral effects. Therefore, while there is a strong traditional basis for the use of aroma (essential oils) in the context of colds, scientific validation remains limited, and the evidence supporting their antiviral efficacy in real-world clinical use is not strong.