What is an allergy?

An allergy is your immune system’s ‘out of character’ response to contact with a specific substance, which is called an allergen. The allergic reaction is also known as a histamine reaction.

Common allergens in our environment include food, grass, pollen, mold spores, insect bites, fabrics and many more.

Common allergy symptoms include swelling, itching, runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. Keep in mind though, that allergy symptoms vary from person to person.

What are essential oils?

The Wikipedia defines essential oils as ‘concentrated hydrophobic liquid containing volatile chemical compounds from plants.’

Five effective essential oils favored by naturopath doctors in treating allergies are:

1. Lavender:

Useful for any allergen that causes an immediate reaction, such as swelling and itching. Naturopaths advise it for children who need urgent relief from their allergy symptoms.

2. Peppermint:

It contains L-methol, which inhibits the production of inflammation mediators in your body. You can apply directly to your skin or first diluted with a carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut oil. You can also vaporize peppermint to treat an allergic reaction to pollen, trees, or grasses during peak allergy season.

3. Lemon Balm:

Its official name is Melissa officinalis and it has a delightful aroma. You can use it in a bath or as a vaporizer to soothe allergy symptoms and reduce your body’s reaction to any allergen. Lemon balm is also available as a handy nasal spray.

4. Tea Tree Oil:

Its official name is Melaleuca and it belongs to the botanical myrtle family. You can use tea tree oil to treat mold and fungi allergies. People have been using the leaves of the tea tree to cure healing cuts, wounds, and skin infections.

5. Roman Chamomile:

It belongs to the botanical daisy family and is pretty useful in dealing with allergy problems involving breathing. Roman chamomile is relaxing and may induce a comforting sleep as well.