According to studies, over 60 million Americans are affected by allergic rhinitis, and the rise in prevalence continues. Allergy symptoms include itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, impaired sense of smell and headaches. Those who suffer from more severe allergies may even experience light headedness, impaired vision and difficulty of breathing. Sometimes, it seems there can be no relief.
When you experience allergic symptoms, many of you would reach for decongestants to clear your nose or antihistamines to block histamine receptors and prevent symptoms like hives. But did you know that you can turn to essential oils to beat common allergies? In fact, many essential oils can be used to give you relief from allergic reactions
Here are 4 essential oils that you can use to combat allergies. Make sure you know how to use them before you begin treatment:
Roman chamomile
Many of you are probably familiar with chamomile tea. Chamomile has a sweet aroma that is extremely soothing. Not only does it have a calming effect, it also effective in treating skin allergies. Chamomile oil is potent enough to provide relief from skin irritations, but mild enough that it can be used on infants.
For mosquito bites or pain and swelling caused by insect stings, just add a drop of chamomile oil directly on the affected area. If your child has rashes due to diaper-wearing, chamomile oil can also help. Just mix a teaspoon of coconut oil with 3 drops of chamomile oil, and then apply it on red, itchy areas of the skin.
Eucalyptus
If you’re suffering from nasal congestion or headache, then this one’s for you. This oil can provide instant relief by making the respiratory secretions flow freely.
Eucalyptus has an unmistakably strong smell and an equally strong action. Because it’s so strong, it should never be used at full strength. You can apply it to your chest to clear your airway or on your temples to reduce the severity of headaches, provided that you dilute it with carrier oil like coconut oil. Another way of using this oil is through inhalation. What you want to do is to add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a steam inhaler or a diffuser and inhale the steam. We also suggest holding a towel to your eyes to avoid irritation.
Peppermint
Peppermint has a pleasant aroma that provides soothing relief. It helps you breathe easily by clearing respiratory blockages. This essential oil can also ease allergies that affect the digestive tract. It may be taken internally to settle the stomach and reduce the effect of food allergies. Just add a few drops of peppermint oil to a cup of tea. This oil can also be applied topically to relieve skin irritation, headache and clear up the respiratory tract. Simply add a few drops of peppermint oil to carrier oil and apply to the chest, forehead or affected area.
Lavender
Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. This means that it has the ability to provide relief from allergic reactions like rashes and itching. Even a full-fledged allergy can be managed by lavender oil.
When you feel the first symptoms of allergy coming on, just pour a few drops of oil onto the palm of your hand, rub them together and inhale it. This mild oil can also be applied on the chest and forehead to relieve nasal congestion. It can also be applied on your temples to relieve headache. But if you have sensitive skin, it is best to dilute it before applying it onto the skin.