Seasonal Allergies and Essential Oils

Posted: May 31st, 2017

Surviving seasonal allergies can be tough.  Allergies are very common and not always just related to high pollen either. Smoke, dust, pollen and animal dander cause us to experience sneezing fits, watery eyes, and a runny nose. The inflammation narrowing the airway may even trigger one's asthma. Bronchitis and other bacterial infections are brought on by over produced mucus creating congestion. In any case, we are just darn miserable.   Enter essential oils to the rescue. Many essential oils contain anti-inflammatory properties that sometimes work like antihistamines. Try some essential oils the next time your eyes start itching and your nose starts running.   The day spa can help with which essential oil is right for your symptoms and a technician can show you how to use and apply the oils. 

If you are prone to allergies, try some of these essential oils:

  Lavender – This is a popular essential oil most people use at home. Lavender essential oil is helpful for both skin allergies and the respiratory system. Dab a few drops between your palms and hold to your nose breathing in deeply for relief from allergy symptoms. This oil is extracted from the flowers of Lavendula Angustifolia.   Peppermint – Ah one of my favorites. Peppermint is cool and fresh. Although peppermint has mostly been used for digestive reasons, the oil has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that work to soothe seasonal allergies. This essential oil is derived from Mentha piperita, a natural hybrid of spearmint and water mint.   Lemon – Lemon oil is often used for its disinfectant properties. Lemon essential oil has refreshing and cleansing properties. It is very helpful for seasonal allergies and asthma attacks, especially when you use lavender and peppermint oils together. This essential oil acts by prompting the body to increase blood circulation and clear the respiratory tract and sinuses. Lemon oil can be used with lavender and peppermint oil by applying the mixture to the forehead, chest and behind the ears and on the feet.  Lemon oil works best for asthmatics.   Eucalyptus – Eucalyptus has a very familiar strong smell. It guarantees to open and make the respiratory secretions flow free and easy. It helps relieve a severe headache and sinus congestion from an allergy attack. Eucalyptus is extracted from the stem and leaves of several species of Eucalyptus or gum trees.  This oil is never to be used at full strength topically. Use a few drops in a diffuser or steam inhaler to open up your nostrils and sinuses. Dilute it with coconut oil and carrier oils when you want to apply to your forehead and chest.   Chamomile – Chamomile is potent, but it is mild oil and can even be used on babies. Chamomile essential oil is effectively used on skin allergies. The oil has a sweet aroma that is very soothing. Many people drink chamomile tea for its calming effect. Chamomile oil is derived from Chamaemelum Nobile, a herbaceous plant with flowers looking like daisies. Add 2-3 drops of chamomile oil to a teaspoon of coconut oil and apply on itchy, red and sore areas of skin. The oil gives excellent relief to irritated skin.   Educate yourself on the uses of essential oils and learn how to properly apply the oils before trying.