1. Peppermint Oil
Because of its strong and minty scent, it works really well for allergy symptoms, especially those that are respiratory related such as wheezing and coughing. It is effective because it helps to open up the airways, therefore aiding the breathing and relieving congestion. It can be used topically, or by inhalation or diffusion.
To use topically, you can apply 1 drop of the peppermint oil to the base of your neck twice a day. If you suffer from sensitive skin, make sure to put the peppermint oil into a carrier oil to lessen the effect on the skin. For sinus congestion, place 1 drop of peppermint oil into a carrier oil and place it around your nostrils. For a chest rub, add 2 or 3 drops to a carrier oil and massage into the chest.
As an inhalant, rub a couple of drops of the peppermint oil into the palms of your hands, then whilst cupping your hands around your nose, take 4-6 slow and deep breaths. Or, add a few drops to a cotton ball and place in a zip lock bag so you can carry it around with you and inhale when needed. Another inhalation method is to add a few drops to a bowl of boiling water, place a towel over your head and breathe in the steam. Peppermint oil in a diffuser or oil burner can be used throughout the day and even the night to help ease the symptoms and discomfort of allergies.
2. Lavender Oil
This herb contains a natural antihistamine as well as very good anti-inflammatory ability. As well as treating an allergic reaction, lavender also has a relaxing and calming effect on the mind and body.
For a topical application, you can add 1 drop of lavender oil to your forehead, cheeks and sinuses to help with the allergic reaction or related headache. Also, putting a few drops of lavender oil on to the soles of your feet before going to bed can ensure a good nights sleep without the bothersome symptoms of allergies. As with any essential oil, you should test it on a small patch of skin to make sure you are not sensitive to it, but it is generally safe to use undiluted. If there is a reaction, simply use the lavender in a carrier oil for extra protection.
As an inhalant, do the same thing as for the peppermint oil. Diffusion of lavender oil is best done in a cold diffuser, either in a room or beside your bed. The best method is to diffuse for around 15 minutes every 2 hours.
3. Eucalyptus Oil
It is widely known that eucalyptus is very helpful for respiratory problems, whether it is an allergy or a cold. It is also good for relieving asthma symptoms. Eucalyptus essential oil is more effective if used topically or as a steam inhalant.
Topically you must always dilute eucalyptus oil in a carrier oil, as it will reduce the chance of irritating the skin. Then simply apply it to different parts of the body, including the neck, chest and the soles of the feet. The inhalation technique is the same as for using lavender and peppermint oil.
4. Roman Chamomile Oil
This herb is not as well known as some of the others, but it works really well for any skin irritations such as eczema and rashes that can be caused by an allergy. It only works as a topical application, and is not suitable for inhaling or diffusing. To use, dilate a few drops of the Roman Chamomile oil into a carrier oil and apply to the affected area up to 3 times per day.
5. Lemon, Lavender and Peppermint Oils
These 3 oils all work well individually for treating allergies, but when combined they are like a super oil. Together they are a very powerful antihistamine and this treatment is ideal for those who suffer from strong allergic reactions. Working together they decrease any inflammation and also relieve a lot of the discomfort experienced during an allergic reaction. There are 5 ways to use this combination.
- In a shot glass of water add 1-2 drops of each of the oils. Gargle the mixture for a few minutes and then swallow. Make sure that your oils are the type that can be taken internally.
- Add a drop of each oil into a tablespoon of raw honey and swallow. This can provide instant relief from some of the symptoms.
- Put drops of each oil into a vegetable capsule and swallow. This is a good option if you can’t bear the taste of the oils.
- Add a few drops of each oil into a carrier oil and apply to the skin to soothe skin irritations caused by the allergy.
- Mix a few drops of each oil in equal amounts together and rub into the skin on the chest, cheeks, forehead and feet. If you have sensitive skin, you can mix with a carrier oil.
6. Horseradish
This is particularly good for clearing out the sinuses. Just the smell alone will help to clear out your nasal passages, and eating horseradish can also ease congestion in your bronchial system. The easiest way to prepare horseradish is to make a broth by adding several spoonfuls of grated horseradish root to a bowl of boiling water.
7. Cayenne Pepper
This pepper is rather hot if used in large amounts, and it contains a compound called capsaisin. As well as giving the pepper its taste, capsaisin is great for reducing any swelling in the throat that often occurs with an allergic reaction. An effective way of taking cayenne is to prepare a gargle by adding ¼ teaspoon of cayenne to the juice of half a lemon, a tablespoon of salt and ½ a cup of lukewarm water. Do not swallow this preparation though, make sure you spit it out after gargling.
8. Turmeric
This spice is commonly used in cooking in India, especially in curries. You can get either fresh turmeric or powdered, and it contains something called curcumin which as both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps with allergies by supporting the mucus membranes of the lungs and sinuses. Either use it in your meals, or take it as a supplement.
9. Wasabi
Wasabi is very hot, and is usually found in Japanese cuisine such as sushi. You can purchase wasabi from many stores, either as a paste or in some places, as a fresh root. Wasabi is great for allergies as it increases the flow of mucus and helps the body to eliminate this mucus therefore removing the allergens at the same time.
10. Ginger
Chinese medicine in particular involves a lot of various health treatments surrounding the use of ginger. It works as a very good decongestant as well as an anti-histamine.
You can eat ginger in your meals, or take it as a tea. To make a good ginger tea, simple place a piece of peeled and cut ginger in a cup and pour over boiling water. Leave it to steep for 10 minutes, and if you want some sweetness add a little honey.
11. Licorice Root
Licorice root has an expectorant quality, which helps to break down the thick mucus often associated with allergic reactions and enabling the body to cough it out. It can also assist with inflammation of the respiratory tract and aid sore throats. One way to take licorice root is in a tea form. To do this you need to steep about 2 inches of the root that has been shredded in boiling water. After 10 minutes strain it and drink it while it is still warm.