Liz Seal Holistic Massage
April bring sunshine and showers, and an increase in the pollens and other allergens in the air around us. Hayfever is defined as a seasonal allergy. It is a response to the increased airborne allergens that appear at certain times of the year. Characteristics of hayfever are irritation of the nasal passages, the roof of the mouth, back of the throat and the eyes. This irritation can result in coughing, sneezing, restriction of the breathing, watery, red and itchy eyes and a general feeling of debility.
An allergy is an immune response to a usually harmless substance. This can be triggered by over-exposure, such as the over-use of perfumes, cleaning agents and certain food additives. The sudden increase in airborne pollen at this time of year can stimulate such an immune response. The symptoms are a natural result of the protective inflammation of the airways. This is our body’s way of trying to prevent the allergens from entering our system. However, the symptoms are anything from a mild irritation to full-blown debility!
There are several treatment routes to relieve the symptoms of hayfever. Taking over the counter anti-histamines can reduce the irritation, while there are additional remedies available. Wearing a ‘Hayband’, which uses the pressure point on the right elbow for allergic response can reduce the symptoms (available online and from some pharmacies.) The use of essential oils to cleanse the air and open the airways can make breathing more comfortable, reducing the feeling of congestion in the airways. Oils can be used to reduce inflammation and to aid rest, to relieve the feelings of debility and tiredness. Due to the wide variety of stimulant allergens which can cause hayfever, there are a range of essential oils which may be helpful, however there is not a ‘cure’.
The best way to relieve the symptoms is by inhaling the essential oils, introducing the oils directly to the airways. Applying oils undiluted to the skin, especially around the face, is not advised under any circumstances. Inhaling the oils, especially in warm, damp air can speed absorption. I developed the ‘Breathe Well’ diffuser blend to alleviate breathing difficulties, such as asthma, coughs and colds and hayfever. Contact me for more information.