Looking for essential oils for allergic rhinitis? You have found the right page.
In this article, you’ll read about some of the best essential oils for allergic rhinitis that are evidence-based and considered safe to use.
Read: Essential Oils for Sleep Apnea
Contents
The Best Essential Oils for Allergic Rhinitis
Here are some of the best essential oils:
1. Peppermint Essential Oil
Allergic rhinitis usually causes a runny nose, watery eyes, and cough among many other symptoms. The use of Peppermint essential oil can reduce most of these symptoms.
It has a cooling and refreshing effect that can help relieve nasal congestion. This is mainly because the oil contains menthol, which is found in many topical rubs and can relieve congestion and nasal irritation.
Peppermint essential oil also has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can reduce swelling and prevent infection in the affected areas.
A recently published in-vitro study shows that using peppermint essential oil can alleviate major symptoms of allergic rhinitis and other common allergies that can cause a cough, blocked nose, itchy nose, and sneezing.
The study reported a significant reduction in sneezing and nasal rubbing. According to the results, the extracts of Mentha piperita L. can be clinically effective in treating related symptoms.
2. Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus oil has a strong, minty scent that can help open up the airways and ease breathing in patients experiencing allergic rhinitis.
The oil acts on nasal mucous membranes to help clear nasal and sinus congestion.
Eucalyptus essential oil can as well decrease histamine and control inflammation to calm the nervous system and eventually stops watery eyes. However, you are not supposed to apply this essential oil directly to your eyes.
A 2020 study shows that eucalyptus essential oil can significantly reduce allergic reactions by suppressing the degranulation of mast cells.
3. Lavender Essential Oil
It is known that when you are stressed out, the body will usually release hormones and chemicals such as histamine that can worsen the symptoms.
Lavender oil has a calming and soothing effect that can help relieve stress and anxiety, which can aggravate symptoms of allergic rhinitis and other related conditions.
An animal study conducted in 2018 shows that the use of lavender essential oil inhibits the inflammatory protein and histamine release, which helps to manage allergic rhinitis.
4. Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree oil is another very effective essential oil that you can use for allergic rhinitis. It has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to manage nasal blocking, watery eyes, and sneezing.
Inhaling tea tree oil can relieve congestion and soothe irritated nasal passages. It can also destroy airborne pathogens that can cause nasal congestion and blockage.
This 2016 study shows that inhalation of tea tree essential oil can improve rhinitis-specific quality of life, can reduce symptoms, and reduce fatigue in patients.
5. Holy Basil Essential Oil
It is very popular in Ayurveda and is used as a remedy for various health conditions, including allergic rhinitis and respiratory problems such as nasal congestion, sneezing, running nose, and nasal blockage.
This essential oil contains compounds such as eugenol, camphene, and cineole that have anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic properties. These properties help to manage common symptoms by reducing the production of Histamine and its levels in the blood.
In a 2014 study, researchers investigated the effects of holy basil essential oil on the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. The study results were significantly reliable in proving that holy basic reduced nasal itching, sneezing, and congestion in participants with allergic rhinitis.
Precautions!
- Not for use by pregnant mothers
- Dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil before use
- Do not ingest or apply on open wounds
Side Effects
- Skin irritation
- Eye redness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
How to Use Essential Oils for Allergic Rhinitis?
Following are a couple of ways you can use these essential oils:
1. Inhalation/Aromatherapy
This is one of the most effective ways to use the above-mentioned essential oils. Add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser and inhale, or you can also directly inhale from the bottle.
2. Steam Inhalation
Add a few drops of essential oil to a bowl of hot water and breathe in the steam. This way, it can help to relieve nasal congestion and inflammation.
The Bottom Line!
The above-mentioned essential oils for allergic rhinitis are some of the best essential oils that you can use safely.
However, keep in mind, that some people may experience discomfort with the use. In such a case, stop the use and consult with your physician if necessary.
The content present on this page has not been evaluated by any medical authorities e.g FDA. All the information present is solely for informational purposes and is not a substitute for the medical advice provided by your physician. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease or illness.
I am a medical student (MD) and a professional blogger. My aim is to help and educate people about essential oils and how they can be beneficial in improving overall health if used in a proper way.
