It’s that time of year again—itchy eyes and throat, sneezing, watery eyes, and the list goes on. Many people are affected by seasonal allergies, which can be quite uncomfortable. Happily, essential oils are a healthier alternative to allergy medication that can naturally relieve symptoms.

Beneficial single oils and blends for general allergies include tea tree, lavender, peppermint, patchouli, elemi, eucalyptus, Harmony, ledum, melissa, ImmuPower, Raven, RC, Roman chamomile, and spikenard. Oils especially beneficial for seasonal pollen allergies, or hay fever, are lavender, Roman chamomile, cajeput, eucalyptus, and rose.

Here are a few combinations and applications to try:

• Mix 6 drops each lemon, lavender, and peppermint essential oil with 1 Tbsp. (15 ml) fractionated coconut oil in a 15 ml roll-on vial. Apply the blend onto your temples, wrists, and neck whenever you feel an allergic reaction coming on.
• Apply 1 drop peppermint essential oil at the base of your neck twice a day, and also diffuse peppermint oil for additional allergy relief.
• Diffuser blends are a great way to keep your allergies calmer while you’re at home. Here are some simple blend variations using common essential oils.

Spring Allergy 3 drops lavender 2 drops peppermint 3 drops lemon 2 drops frankincense

Allergy Relief 2 drops peppermint 2 drops lavender 2 drops lemon

Sinus Relief 2 drops oregano 2 drops tea tree 2 drops peppermint 2 drops lavender 2 drops lemon

Individual allergies are unique, which means certain essential oils and methods will work for some people but not for others. Hopefully at least one of our recommendations will help you find some relief from seasonal allergies this year. Please comment below and share any other remedies you have found helpful.