Spring brings the promise of warmer weather, blossoming flowers, and revived spirits. However, for many, it also marks the onset of the dreaded seasonal allergies. The sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes can make it hard to fully enjoy the beauty of the season. While there are various over-the-counter medications available, we suggest you look to a cleaner, and just as effective solution to allergy symptoms: essential oils.
Understanding Seasonal Allergies:
What causes seasonal allergies? Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds can trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. When these allergens enter the body, the immune system mistakenly identifies them as harmful invaders, leading to the release of histamines. These histamines cause inflammation, leading to typical allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.
How Essential Oils Can Help:
Essential oils, derived from plants, contain potent compounds known for their therapeutic properties. When used appropriately, certain essential oils can help alleviate allergy symptoms and promote respiratory health. Here are some ways essential oils can aid in combating seasonal allergies:
- Soothing Properties: Essential oils like grapefruit, lavender and eucalyptus possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and airways, easing congestion and promoting easier breathing. It can also lesson the appearance of puffiness.
- Clear Breathing: Peppermint and eucalyptus essential oils can help to clear sinus congestion and relieve stuffiness, making it easier to breathe.
- Less Sneezy: Some essential oils, such as peppermint and lemon, can reduce sneezing and itching.
- Boost Resiliency: Essential oils like tea tree and frankincense can support the immune system, helping the body better cope with allergens and reducing the severity of allergic reactions.
How to Use Essential Oils for Allergies:
There are several ways to incorporate essential oils into your allergy-fighting arsenal:
- Diffusion: Add a few drops of your preferred essential oils to a diffuser and let the aroma fill the room. This method can help clear the airways and provide instant relief.
- Steam Inhalation: Add a few drops of essential oils to a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the steam. This can help clear congestion and soothe irritated nasal passages. You can also do this in the shower.
- Topical Application: Dilute essential oils with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil and apply the mixture to the chest, throat, or temples for respiratory relief.
- DIY Allergy Blend: Create a custom blend of essential oils known for their allergy-fighting properties, such as lavender, peppermint, and lemon. Mix them together and use them in diffusers or in a diy inhaler.
Pro tip: Try our sparoom HALLS® essential oil aromatherapy line of inhalers and/or essential oil diffuser to really soothe any allergy symptoms. Created and inspired by classic HALLS® cough drops flavors, our inhalers and essential oils feature refreshing, freeing vapor with cherry, lemon, and eucalyptus all with cooling menthol to help soothe your senses and even help with the occasional sleepless night.