Essential oils are a popular health trend that people are using to treat everything from muscle aches to depression to diabetes. Can essential oils also help alleviate asthma and allergy symptoms? Here are some things to know before you get started.
Essential oils are a highly concentrated form of natural, organic compounds found in plants. There are countless varieties of essential oils such as rose, lavender, oregano and blue chamomile. Each is believed to have specific properties that can help treat a particular ailment or set of symptoms.
One of the most common ways to use essential oils is with a diffuser. There are several different types of diffusers but they all work by diluting the essential oil in water and then releasing vapor into the air. You add just a few drops of oil to the device and it fills the room with a fine mist that delivers the oil gradually as you breathe.
Diffusion is an ideal way for people with allergies and asthma to use essential oils. By breathing essential oils through the air, these beneficial compounds are applied directly to affected areas like the nasal passages, airway and lungs. Diffusers also help humidify the airway, which is itself beneficial for asthma and allergy-sufferers.
If you’re considering trying essential oils to help with your allergies or asthma, look for oils that are thought to reduce inflammation and congestion, improve immunity or have antiseptic properties. Some of the most common oils for asthma and allergies are lavender, eucalyptus, lemon and tea tree.
It’s a good idea to start with small doses and exposures to essential oils to see how your body reacts to them. Irritation and even allergic reactions to essential oils can occur. Though these are rarely serious, testing your body’s response with low concentrations will help prevent any potentially negative side effects.
There are other ways to use essential oils such as applying them directly to the skin or even ingesting them through food or drink. People with allergies should be cautious about these methods, not only because of the risk of a topical reaction but also due to exposure to a concentrated dose. Again, the best advice is to try a small amount and see how it works for you.
Keep in mind that there is little scientific evidence supporting the benefits of many essential oils and they are not a substitute for professional medical care. But if you’re looking for alternative ways to help improve your asthma or allergy symptoms, essential oils may be one way to help you relieve stress, improve your mood and feel better.
Kevin Arnold
Kevin Arnold writes about allergies and asthma, travel and healthy living. For more tips and information, check out all of his posts at www.blog.pureroom.com.