As the weather warms up so the pollen season begins and thousands of people start feel that familiar tingling in their nose and itching in their eyes.
Of course there are plenty of medications available to help treat seasonal allergies, but if you would prefer to take a more natural approach then these five essential oils might help.
Rosalina (Melaleuca ericifolia)
In it’s native Australia, this oil is known as Lavender Tea Tree Oil. It has that familiar tea tree aroma but it’s much softer that the tea tree oil most of us know and has a more lemony, floral scent.
It’s a wonderful oil for helping with respiratory issues such as colds and stuffy noses caused by allergies.
Siberian Fir (Abies Sibirica)
This oil has a wonderful uplifting aroma, just like taking a walk through a pine forest. It has antiseptic properties that encourages deep breathing and clear respiration. It’s also a good choice of oil if you’re feeling tired or stressed.
German Chamomile (Matricaria Chamomilla)
This lovely oil has has anti-allergenic and anti-inflammatory properties, perfect if you suffer with seasonal allergies. It is also a lovely calming oil making it a good choice if you suffer with an over-active mind and need help to focus. It’s scent is quite powerful – sweet and herbaceous – so it works well when blended with other oils.
Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
Geranium oil has a very strong aroma and is what I call a ‘marmite’ oil – you either love it or hate it! There are different variations: Geranium Bourbon or Rose Geranium both have similar therapeutic qualities but have a softer, rose like scent. It has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory qualities and like the Chamomile, this oil works well in small quantities blended with other oils.
Blue Tansy (Tanacetum annuum)
A rather expensive oil, Blue Tansy has a very sweet, apple like scent and is a favourite among aromatherapists to use during high-pollen seasons. It is also a lovely oil to sooth irritated skin and improve feelings of self esteem and confidence.
All of these oils are gentle enough to use with children and if you are pregnant or nursing.
HOW TO USE YOUR OILS SAFELY
It’s important to remember that essential oils are extremely concentrated and should always be used with caution. For the purpose of seasonal allergy support I recommend either diffusing at home, steam inhalation or using a personal inhaler that you can carry with you.
In a room diffuser: Fill the diffuser with water according to the manfacturers guidelines and add 4-5 drops of essential oil. For best results diffuse intermittently (1/2 hour on, 1/2 hour off). Take care when diffusing around dogs – make sure they can leave the room if they find the scent too overpowering and never diffuse if you have a cat.
In an inhaler: Add 6-8 drops of one or a blend of your favourite oils to the wick. Snap the end cap into place and it should last you several weeks. Inhaler sticks are available to buy from Amazon.
Steam inhalation is a great idea if you looking to support any respiratory problems. Add 2-3 drops of essential oil to a bowl of steaming water. Place a towel over your head, close your eyes and inhale the steam for up to 5 minutes.
In a bath. This is one of my favourite ways to enjoy essential oils but it’s worth remembering that oil and water don’t mix. Any oils you add to your bath will sit on top of the water and there is a small risk of skin irritation. The best option is to add 3-4 drops of essential oil to a tablespoon of unscented body wash. The body wash will contain an emulsifier which helps the oil mix with the water.
