DIY Aromatherapy Inhaler Spring Allergies

Springtime is a time for new growth, renewal and fresh beginnings.  The weather gets warmer, the trees and plants start to bud and the new energy brings with it an anticipation of hope and change.  But for many, the spring season also means allergies and all the symptoms that can make this particular season irritating and uncomfortable.

Spring allergies are caused by pollen, tiny particles that are released by plants and trees into the air to help them reproduce. Many of these allergens trigger reactions like sneezing, coughing, congestion, headaches and watery eyes and for some, in more severe cases, these reactions can become almost debilitating.

There are countless over-the-counter medications available to those suffering from allergies, and many bring with them countless side effects that many people would like to avoid.

So, what kinds of natural alternatives can we try to help combat allergy symptoms?  Essential oils can offer natural relief from a whole slew of allergy symptoms, by using them on their own or as support to common allergy medications.

Research studies have shown that certain essential oils are made up of molecules that have the potential to relieve upper respiratory congestion, ease breathing, reduce inflammation and lessen eye irritation due to allergies.  

And not only can these essential oils lessen and relieve the physical symptoms associated with spring allergies, but their aromas can instantly shift emotions and trigger the relaxation response - making us feel so much better when navigating through allergy season.

Here is a list of 5 of the best essential oils to spring allergies

Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia):

Steam distilled from the leaves of the Tea Tree that is native to Australia.  The indigenous people of this region have been using tea trees for its medicinal properties for centuries.  The molecules that make up this versatile essential oil are particularly effective in reducing inflammatory reactions, and clearing away congestion so we can breathe more easily and clearly.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis):

Steam distilled from the leaves of the common Rosemary plant that many of us use in our cooking as a herb. The medicinal properties of the plant have been celebrated for centuries across cultures, and one of the most favorite ways of using the essential oil is to clear away congestion, both mentally and physically. Rosemary essential oil can help us breathe more easily and think with more focus and concentration.

Lavender Essential Oil (Lavandula angustifolia):

Steam distilled from the lavender flowers of the lavender bush-like herb.  Its healing benefits are many, but one its most powerful aroma therapeutic actions is to soothe away nervous stress and tension, calming both the body and mind. Its calling actions are due to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which have been shown to lessen allergic responses to airborne allergens.

Lemon Essential Oil (Citrus limon):

Expressed (squeezed) from the peel of the lemon fruit.  It’s fresh, sweet and fruity aroma is instantly uplifting and can encourage us to feel more positive. Plus, it is the primary molecule that has been shown to clear congestion, and support our breathing. Like rosemary it can also help focus our thinking, and reduce our inflammatory response.

Frankincense Essential Oil (Boswellia serrata):

This species of frankincense essential oil is steam distilled from the resin of the frankincense tree that grows in India.  It has a distinctly different aromatic profile from the frankincense we are more familiar with from East Africa and Oman, but offers very similar benefits.  It is a great oil to choose for improving our breathing, reducing inflammation and clearing our heads.  Its earthy woody aroma is calming and encourages us to breathe more deeply and easily.

Let’s make a DIY essential oil inhaler for spring allergies

Here are the blending tools you’ll need to make it:

• 1 personal aromatherapy inhaler, you can see what one looks like here.
• 1 tweezer
• 1 small mixing bowl, glass or stainless steel
• 1 mixing spoon, or tiny spatula - don’t use plastic!
• 1 Blank Label

Ingredients:

• 9 drops of Lavender Essential Oil
• 5 drops of Tea Tree Essential Oil
• 4 drops of Lemon Essential Oil
• 4 drops of Frankincense Essential Oil
• 5 drops of Rosemary Essential Oil