Spring is here and doesn’t it lift your spirits some to see flower buds open up and bloom? Even down here in Florida where changing seasons is a softer transition I am noticing some changes. Unfortunately, allergies is one of them and with the blooms can come the sneezing and sniffles. Essential oils are a great way to provide some natural allergy relief. Knowing which ones and how to use them can help open up the decrease inflammation, open up the nasal passage and airways.
Here are some top essential oil recommendations to keep on hand for allergy season:
Chamomile
Chamomile chamazulene, an anti-oxidant (4. pub med definition) content is responsible for its anti-histamine action. (1) It’s also very soothing and anti-inflammatory. Since chamomile can have a calming effect on the body and mind, it is a good one to use at night but feel free to use during the day as well.
Frankincense
Considered the king of essential oils for many reasons. It’s presence of d-limonene can give it an anti-inflammatory effect while offering immune support. (1) If you’re allergies seem to be causing a lot of inflammation across your sinuses then Frankincense oil should help. You can use it both diluted on the skin and to diffuse in the air. If you don’t love the aroma of Frankincense it pairs well with citrus oils that will make it a more pleasing scent.
Peppermint
Peppermint has the power to reduce phlegm and inflammation. It can be used as an expectorant and a decongestant. (5) Peppermint is very refreshing and I prefer using it for allergies in the day time as it is also excellent for alertness. Peppermint oil has some many uses and for allergies an excellent way to use it is to make a natural chest rub. It’s often used as a headache remedy as well -try diluting and rubbing on or using a roller with peppermint in it on your temples.
Naouli Oil (Melaleuca)
If you feel that your allergy or cold symptoms may be due to mold in the air or on the verge of an infection, niaouli oil, which is the same as melaleuca Oil would be a good oil to add into the mix. Melaleuca oil is very anti-fungal and anti-bacterial and can assist with fighting infections in this way.
Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus is one of my favorites for breathing easier because it’s also a relaxing aroma. It has antiseptic, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is known to ease sinusitis, coughing and asthma. (6) Both peppermint and eucalyptus can function in a way similar to menthol. Eucalyptus is also a good oil to use diluted in a natural chest rub.
Lavender Oil
True lavender has linalool which can have an anti-inflammatory effect may help with congestion. One study showed it prevents allergic inflammation and the enlargement of mucous cells. (7) Lavender oil has so many uses and is one of my favorites to diffuse at night because of it’s relaxing and calming effect.
Sweet Orange
Orange essential oil has a high amount of d-limonene as well and can support the immune system. (1) It pairs well with Orange is a more energizing oil, so I prefer this one for day time as well. Frankincense oil and when mixed together you will get a scent that’s oh so lovely.
So, How to use these essential oils for allergies?
First let me mention a safety side note. Essential oils can affect small children (under age 10) differently than adults. They should be diluted more significantly so that their smaller systems are not overwhelmed.
If you come across a recommendation to digest any of these oils for allergy relief, please take caution. As a safety practice NYR Organic, the company I am with does NOT recommend digesting essential oils. If you talk with a certified aroma therapist they will agree that essential oils are not meant to be used this way. “Food grade” is not an actual 3rd party certification, it is a marketing term used by the companies who sell oils that they claim are food grade.
These oils can be used for allergies by inhalation, in a bath, topically or vaporization. Both diffusing and diluted in a roller are ways that I use essential oils for allergies. When diffusing the oils you only need 2-3 drops of each oil that you choose.
I am an NYR Organic consultant and we do carry all of these oils, if you would like to purchase any of these oils feel free to go to my NYR Organic website or contact me.
Resources:
- https://www.blossomsandblends.com/blog/2018/4/2/seasonal-allergies-in-children-the-role-essential-oils-may-play
- Aroma Head Blog https://blog.aromahead.com/2015/03/23/spring-time-look-aromatherapy-allergy-relief
- Essential Oils, Natural Remedies – Reference book.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7997466
- https://articles.mercola.com/herbal-oils/peppermint-oil.aspx
- https://www.healthline.com/health/9-ways-eucalyptus-oil-can-help#breathing
- https://www.healthline.com/health/essential-oils-for-allergies#lavender
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