We are nearing the spring allergy season and many of us are mentally preparing for the runny noses, scratchy throats, and frustrating sneezes. These symptoms are often treated with over-the-counter allergy medications or perhaps even doctor prescriptions. However, these medications do not always solve the problem but only lessen the severity of the symptoms.
An allergen is a substance that causes an allergic reaction in your body. These allergens trick your immune system into thinking that they are an intruder and cause your body to release antibodies. These antibodies are designed to fight the intruders (allergens) and they trigger cells to release chemicals including histamine into your bloodstream which then causes the allergic reaction. Examples of common allergens are pollen, dust, mold, animal dander, insect stings, etc. It is believed that inflammation may be a contributing factor to allergic reactions. When you have inflammation in your body, your immune system is working in overdrive already. Inflammation can be caused by stress, diet, infection, and diseases. With your immune system already stressed, being introduced to an allergen only intensifies the reaction. Your body becomes flooded with antibodies causing a massive release of histamine and this worsens your symptoms.
Essential oils have been used for thousands of years to treat many ailments. Many of these oils are anti-inflammatories as well as anti-virals and anti-bacterials. Using oils can help reduce inflammation and detoxify your body, relieving stress on your immune system. With a relaxed immune system, you will see a potential reduction in the severity of your allergic reactions.
Here are a few essential oils that are known to be most effective in relieving your allergy symptoms.
1. Peppermint
When peppermint oil is diffused, it can open up your sinuses and airways bringing immediate relief from coughing and stuffy noses. There have been a few studies performed that have found that peppermint oil is a relaxant, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory that reduces coughing and helps relieve asthma symptoms.
How to use:
-
Diffuse 5 drops and breathe in. This will help relax your nasal passages and allow your body to loosen mucus.
-
Ingest 1-2 drops of peppermint daily to reduce inflammation. You may do so by placing in your water, tea, or smoothies.
-
Topically apply on your chest with coconut oil or another carrier oil for respiratory and sinus relief.
2. Basil
Basil essential oil is another powerful anti-inflammatory, but it also helps provide support to your adrenal glands. Your adrenal glands are responsible for over 50 hormones that support most of your bodily functions. Through these properties, basil helps your body respond appropriately to allergens and promotes blood flow to your brain, heart, and muscles. Basil also helps detoxify your body by killing viruses and bacteria which in return reduces inflammation and pain. With your body working more effectively, you will see a reduction in fatigue as well.
How to use:
-
Ingest daily by adding a drop or two to your salad dressing, soup, or other savory dish.
-
Topically apply 2-3 drops diluted with a carrier oil to your chest, neck, and temples for respiratory support.
3. Lemon
This super oil offers a wide variety of benefits. Lemon essential oil has antibacterial properties which help detoxify your body. It helps promote lymphatic system drainage which helps improve your immune system. When ingested, it also helps balance PH levels in your body and allows your liver to function properly, ridding your body of harmful toxins and infections. Due to its antibacterial properties, lemon oil is also a wonderful disinfectant and can be used to remove allergens within your home.
How to use:
-
Ingest by adding 1-2 drops to a glass of water daily.
-
Diffuse 5 drops to help kill airborne pathogens.
-
Disinfect by adding a few drops into your laundry or into a water bottle and spray on any fabric surface in your home.