Liz Seal Holistic Massage
Many common skin complaints are due to an allergic reaction, or hypersensitivity to specific conditions or substances. Allergies are said to be on the increase, due to higher stress levels and the general over-exposure to food additives, insecticides and other synthetic chemicals. Why people develop allergies is something of a mystery, and finding a ‘cure’ can be complex, simply removing the offending agent is not always easy!
Allergies are associated with the level of histamine, a protein released in response to injury or tissue damage. Histamine causes the capillaries in the affected area to dilate, bringing extra blood to the damaged area to promote healing. When fluids seep out of the dilated vessels, this can cause localised swelling, redness and irritation. Histamine can also cause contraction of the bronchi, reducing oxygen uptake in the lungs, resulting in shortness of breath (as in asthma attacks).
The release of histamine is a normal defense mechanism but can become excessive. Allergies occur when there is an absence of an enzyme required to breakdown specific proteins, these unbroken protein molecules then enter the blood stream and are treated as foreign bodies, triggering an immune response. Known allergens in meat, fish, and dairy can result in digestive reactions (IBS etc) animal hair, pollen and house dust (most of which is human skin cells!) are also protein based and can cause an allergic response.
Solutions?
Antihistamines can be taken to supress the levels of histamine in the blood stream, topical medication (steroidal creams) or emollients can reduce the redness and itching of the skin, 
while decongestants can ease the discomfort of a blocked nose.
All of these will only treat the symptoms, making lifestyle changes to reduce the exposure to the allergens may be a more long-term solution…if you can only isolate the allergen! Changes in diet, ensuring you do not overuse synthetic fragrances, modifying laundry chemicals…the list of changes can be daunting…but possibly well worth while?
Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine, while Panthothenic acid (vitamin B5) produces cortisone in the adrenal glands, known to help protect against allergies. Infantile eczema often responds well to gamma linoleic acid (GLA) in the form of evening primrose oil. Of course, there are several essential oils which can reduce the symptoms and promote a healing response…
Oils which may be helpful in allergy prone individuals include the Chamomile family, Hyssop, Bergamot, Geranium, the Eucalyptus family, and Frankincense. For skin problems, a blend of chamomile, bergamot, hyssop and geranium can bring relief. For respiratory symptoms eucalyptus, frankincense and hyssop can relieve the congestion and breathing difficulties.
For further information on how essential oils can help with allergic reactions, please contact me.