The following essential oils have traditionally been used for allergies:

• Ammi Visnaga — This precious oil is a must-have in any therapeutic collection due to its impressive effectiveness in treating asthma and allergies when steam-inhaled.* Ammi Visnaga is an antihistamine, which means it blocks the allergic response.* It also can be used to control allergic reactions, because it prevents the release of histamines.*
• Note: Because Ammi Visnaga is very photosensitive, massage and aromatic bath applications are not recommended.* Dr. Streicher suggests using Ammi Visnaga in a nebulizer, diffuser, or inhaler.
• Blue Moroccan Chamomile — This variety of Chamomile has powerful anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties due to its high content of chamazulene.* Blue Moroccan Chamomile has antihistamine and antiallergenic properties can help the user cope with a broad range of respiratory issues such as congestion or cough.* Even acute asthma attacks can be mitigated, as well as many other allergic reactions.*
• Note: Use only in small quantities, and never with children or during pregnancy.* Blue Moroccan Chamomile will clog in a nebulizing diffuser; thus, you will have to use another kind of diffuser or use a blend that has Blue Moroccan Chamomile in it like Allergy Ease Synergy Blend.
• German Blue Chamomile — While known as “standard Chamomile,” this Chamomile harnesses remarkable anti-inflammatory and antihistamine powers, courtesy of its rich chamazulene concentration. Its unique blend of antihistamine and antiallergenic properties makes it a standout solution for a wide array of respiratory challenges, from stubborn congestion to troublesome coughs.* It's even known to offer relief during acute asthma flare-ups and diverse allergic reactions.*
• Note: Do not use German Chamomile if you have a ragweed allergy as it is said to make it worse.* German Chamomile does not work in a nebulizing diffuser; thus, you will have to use another kind of diffuser. Dr. Streicher suggests diluting Blue German Chamomile in Jojoba or Hazelnut Carrier Oil and using it for targeted topical application on the chest.
• Eucalyptus Radiata — Eucalyptus Radiata perhaps shines brightest when demonstrating its therapeutic value for the respiratory system.* These include but are not limited to symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, congestion, cough, sinusitis, cold, flu, and sore throat.* It makes perfect sense that the familiar aromatic essence of Eucalyptus can be recognized in countless respiratory remedies marketed throughout the world, but be careful that the Eucalyptus you get is pure and not synthesized.*
• Note: Eucalyptus Radiata Essential Oil is non-irritant and non-sensitizing to the skin.* However, it can be poisonous if ingested, even in small amounts.* Not appropriate for use with babies and small children under four.* By inhaling its diffused essence or applying topically to the chest to subsequently breathe in a steady dose of its vapors, symptoms of many respiratory ailments can be tackled.*
• Lavender — Renowned for its multifaceted support across various bodily systems, including the musculoskeletal, nervous, respiratory, and circulatory systems.* Its gentle yet effective properties, particularly when combined with massage lotion or oil, offer a calming and soothing sensation to muscle joints.* This soothing effect not only alleviates pain but also enhances the overall therapeutic experience for the individual.* Consequently, Lavender stands out as one of the most prevalent essential oils used in massage therapy today.
• Note: For maximum effectiveness and optimal results, diffusing the oil is the preferred method of use. Embrace Lavender essential oil and effortlessly overcome respiratory ailments!
• Palmarosa — The uniquely floral, yet grassy aroma of Palmarosa Essential Oil has long been recognized for its balanced cordiality, as well as for its abilities to calm the nervous system while simultaneously uplifting the spirit.* It is said that Palmarosa encourages free-flowing adaptability and a feeling of security.* Thus, it opens the physical body by opening the mind first.*
• Note: Palmarosa Essential Oil is non-toxic, non-irritant, and non-sensitizing when properly diluted.* With topical use it is recommended, however, to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying more liberally in order to ensure there is no sensitization.*

Learn more about aromatherapy or see our how to use essential oil videos.

Sources: (1) http://www.hindawi.com/journals/isrn/2012/404606/

*These statements made on this page have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not intended to diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease. If a condition persists, please contact your physician or healthcare provider. The information provided is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with a healthcare provider, and should not be construed as medical advice.

What is allergic rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis is when the nasal passages become inflamed due to the effect of allergens. Allergens such as pollen, dust, and dander (particles of hair and skin that animals have shed) trigger a response in people with sensitive immune systems.* The response is an increase in the production of antibodies.

When these antibodies bind to certain cells, it causes the release of histamines and other chemicals. Generally, this causes sneezing, increased mucus and for the nasal passages to become inflamed and swollen and the eyes to become watery and itchy.* Some people can also develop a rash.*

Air pollution can aggravate allergies, but so can chemicals like chlorine. Allergic responses of one kind or another are very common, although for some it only occurs on a seasonal basis in response to certain plants like ragweed.*

What is hay fever?

Hay fever is a particular kind of allergic rhinitis in which the allergens are the pollens of grass or trees. Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a specific type of allergic reaction triggered by pollen from grass or trees. This allergic response occurs when the body identifies harmless outdoor or indoor substances, known as allergens, as harmful. Common allergens that can trigger hay fever include pollen, dust mites, and pet dander from animals with fur or feathers.*

What causes allergies?

It is not the allergen that really causes allergies!* Otherwise, everyone would suffer from them. Allergies are an over-reaction by the body to the allergens.* Instead of disregarding them, it treats them as a threat and launches a full-scale response similar to how it responds to when you catch a cold.* In a sense, you can think of allergies as an immune system problem.

There does seem to be some inherited genetic disposition toward developing allergies in that you are more likely to develop them if one parent also suffered from them. You are even more likely if both parents had it. Some have allergies as children but grow out of them. Some don't even get allergies till a little later in life. If you are allergic to the pollen of one plant, you are more likely to develop an allergy to another type of pollen.

*These statements made on this page have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not intended to diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease. If a condition persists, please contact your physician or healthcare provider. The information provided is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with a healthcare provider, and should not be construed as medical advice.

What are conventional medical treatments for allergies?

Generally, avoiding whatever triggers the allergy is the best response.* When this isn't possible, Western medical approaches are to quell the symptoms. For example, you can take antihistamines.* However, they do have drowsiness as a side effect.*

Some people find allergy immunotherapy (desensitization) effective.* This is basically where the allergens are increased gradually with the aim of building up a long-term tolerance to them.* It often involves injections and needs the supervision of a physician.* It can take 3 to 12 months to be effective.*

What are alternative treatments for allergies?

The evidence as to whether acupuncture is effective for rhinitis has given mixed results. Some people find saline nasal irrigation (neti pots) useful in relieving some of the sinus pain associated with the allergy.* Of course, essential oils traditionally have also been used for allergies.* For more information, see the Useful Essential Oils tab.

*These statements made on this page have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not intended to diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease. If a condition persists, please contact your physician or healthcare provider. The information provided is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with a healthcare provider, and should not be construed as medical advice.