Hayfever and allergy support with essential oils

Hayfever in the UK starts with tree pollen, typically from late March to mid-May. Grass (which actually has two peaks) lasts from mid-May until July, and weed pollen covers the end of June to September. 

We all get excited for summer when it gets sunny and humid. Unfortunately it reeks havoc for any sufferers! This is when the pollen count is at its highest, so annoying! Richie suffers the most in our family, I seem to be on a 7 year cycle with my symptoms, which are much more manageable. "It's just hayfever" is not what any sufferer wants to hear it involves so much irritation it can even make you feel debilitated in daily tasks. 

Symptoms of hay fever include:

Which essential oils can help with hay fever?

• Eucalyptus –  reduces inflammation and helps breathing
• Lavender – can reduce irritation and relax breathing
• Lemon – anti-inflammatory for the respiratory system, improves immunity and is also antibacterial
• Peppermint – helps open up the nose and also relieves headaches resulting from stuffed sinuses
• Tea Tree – a natural choice for anti-allergy and building immunity

How to use the essential oils

There are so many ways to integrate these essential oils into your daily life to relieve symptoms, here are some ideas:
 

BCALM Spray

Why not make a spray that you use throughout the day? Particularly useful before bed to help clear congestion, or to spray on your pillow to help clear sinuses whilst you sleep. To 100ml of water add up to 30 drops of essential oils from the list above. Choose the oils that you like the smell of, as those are the ones your body will need the most! You can blend them all so get creative! Peppermint especially is cooling, so it’s perfect for spraying onto the skin when it is a humid night!  

Diffusion

Try Lavender and Lemon in your diffuser, as well as soothing symptoms, it makes the room smell beautiful! Lemon’s great for concentration too, so it’s ideal for when you are working.

Steam Inhalation

If you’re really congested, try a steam inhalation over a bowl of boiling water with up to 10 drops of Eucalyptus. Place a towel over your head as you inhale for a few minutes at a time, remembering to close your eyes. Better still, try having a bath with your chosen oils. Ensure that all of the doors and windows are closed and enjoy your inhalation whilst having a relaxing soak. 

Itchy Eyes

Cool compresses can be extremely soothing for sore, red, itchy eyes! Soak a couple of cotton pads in water, pop in the fridge for a few minutes and place over the eyes for 10-15 minutes. Alternatively the classic cucumber slice works wonders!

We hope these tips and tricks have been helpful to calm your hay fever symptoms, so that you can enjoy the sunshine this summer! Sending summer love!

Healthy Wishes x