Allergies can be a real pain. The sneezing, itching, watery eyes, sore throat, swelling, stomachaches, and other symptoms that go with an allergic response can be uncomfortable at best. An allergy is caused by an immune system response to all kinds of things, from food and animals to chemicals, the temperature, and even things as natural as grass and plants. For some people, allergies can be life-threatening.

People who suffer from allergies are told to avoid the things that trigger a reaction—but pollen and other natural allergens can be hard to avoid. Our immune systems can also be affected by processed food and environmental toxins. Essential oils can help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and decrease the symptoms of an allergic response.

Allergens trick the immune system into thinking something is a threat to the body. The immune system overreacts and produces antibodies, which release histamine and other chemicals, causing an allergic response.

Some theorize that the rise in allergic reactions is due to toxins in the foods and our environment that cause inflammation in the body. If there is already disease or inflammation in the body, the immune system is already overworked and more likely to overreact. If inflammation is treated and the immune system is not over-stressed, allergic reactions decline or may disappear entirely.

Essential oils have a great ability to balance the immune system and reduce inflammation. They help the body detoxify, eliminate free radicals, and fight infections, bacteria, parasites, and microorganisms.

Here are some of the many essential oils that may help reduce allergic response:

Peppermint

Peppermint essential oil clears sinuses and offers relief to scratchy throats when inhaled. Peppermint acts as an expectorant, helping to discharge the phlegm and reduce the inflammation that triggers an allergic reaction.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus essential oil opens up the airways, lungs, and sinuses and improves circulation. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. It cleanses toxins and also acts as an expectorant.

Basil

Basil essential oil reduces the inflammatory response triggered by allergens and supports the adrenal glands, which helps balance hormones and distribute blood to the needed areas when the body is exposed to a threat. It also is effective at detoxing and decreases inflammation, fatigue, and pain. It kills the bacteria, yeasts, and molds that can cause an asthmatic response.

Tea Tree

When diffused, tea tree essential oil kills airborne pathogens such as the molds, bacteria, and fungi that cause allergic reactions. It works as an antiseptic with anti-inflammatory properties.

Lemon

Lemon essential oil supports the lymphatic and respiratory systems. It inhibits the growth of bacteria and strengthens the immune system by stimulating white blood cell production. It also can eliminate allergens in the air when diffused.

*Enjoy the benefits of these essential oils by inhaling, diffusing, or adding to a drink such as water, a smoothie, or tea (internal use not recommended for tea tree essential oil). Essential oils can also be applied topically to the feet, chest, back of neck, and temples. For sensitive skin, dilute with a good carrier oil such as sweet almond or coconut oil. When using essential oils internally, only consume 1–2 drops per day for 1 month at a time. Then take a 2-week break before resuming treatment.

See the Reference Guide for Essential Oils to learn more about how essential oils can help reduce allergies.

Source: Reference Guide for Essential Oils, 2017 Edition, pp. 372–73.