Allergies are the overreaction of the body’s immune system to a substance it detects as harmful. These usually include dust, pollen, mold, pet dander, and smoke. While the intent is admirable, the symptoms range from annoying to overwhelming: red, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, itching, hives, and even asthma attacks. Allergies can be difficult to treat, though you may find relief with essential oils such as helichrysum and lemon.
Alone or combined, some suggested essential oils for allergies are:
• German chamomile
• Helichrysum
• Lavender
• Lemon
• Peppermint
Safety First
These essential oils should be used only to help treat mild everyday allergies, not allergic reactions. A severe allergic reaction requires immediate professional healthcare.
When allergies attack, fight back with one of these aromatherapy treatments:
• In the air. A DIY room spray infused with any of the oils highlighted here may help cleanse the air of allergens as well as support your immune system.
• Pulse-point massage. Add these oils to a rollerball bottle to carry allergy relief with you on the go.
• Comforting balm. When allergies result in skin irritation or hives, apply a mixture of lavender, German chamomile, and coconut oil to the affected area to help things calm down.
Natural Partners for Aromatherapy
For maximum results, combine your essential oils with these other natural remedies:
• Shop local. Consuming a tablespoon of local honey a day can help alleviate seasonal allergies.
• Rinse well. Using a neti pot or nasal spray can flush allergens out of your nasal passages.
• Get moving. Moderate exercise for 30 minutes has been shown to relieve allergy symptoms.
If you’re tired of the itching, sneezing, and watery eyes, turn to these aromatherapy remedies.
Whether you suffer from seasonal allergies or you have company coming over who does, this DIY room spray can help you clear the air of irritants while making your home smell lovely and inviting.
20 drops lemon oil
20 drops lavender oil
20 drops peppermint oil
15 drops German chamomile oil
1 teaspoon vodka
½ cup filtered water
1 4-ounce spray bottle
Combine all of the ingredients in a small spray bottle and shake to blend.
You’ll want to protect and support the immune system when out in the world of allergens.
Take a rollerball of this strengthening blend with you to help protect against irritants and clear up congestion.
3 drops German chamomile oil
3 drops helichrysum oil
2 drops lemon oil
2 drops peppermint oil
1 10-milliliter rollerball bottle
Carrier oil to fill
Add all of the essential oils to the rollerball bottle, then fill it the rest of the way with carrier oil. Shake to blend. Apply to the temples, wrists, and behind the ears (or simply breathe it in straight from the bottle).
For those allergies that don’t result in sneezing, here’s a simple blend to help soothe itchy, irritated skin caused by allergic reactions.
1 drop helichrysum oil
1 drop lavender oil
2 drops carrier oil
Combine the oils and apply directly to the affected area.