Seasonal Allergies Got You Down? Evoke Aromatherapy Has Natural Effective Solutions

Whether you call it allergies, hay fever or allergic rhinitis the experience of living with these conditions eventually affects our overall feelings of daily wellness and joy.

Typical symptoms for these conditions are: itchy, puffy or red eyes.  Nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose or postnasal drip.  Wheezing while breathing, pain in the ears, throat irritation, headaches and fatigue.  The range of symptoms is broad with each symptom translating into discomfort for the allergy sufferer.

Essential oils such as Lavender, Lemon, Eucalyptus, Roman Chamomile, Peppermint, Juniper, Frankincense, Basil or Tea Tree can each greatly help to soothe, calm or boost the immune system during this time with allergies.

Did you know that 40-60% of American people are affected by Allergic Rhinitis yearly?  Also the number of children showing signs of allergies is dramatically increasing.

Allergies are most commonly a reaction to pollen, dust, mold and animal dander.  It’s not known why more people are being affected by these commonly occurring allergens.  One theory points to the body being overworked and run down with stress which causes an increase of inflammation within the body and results in a lower immune system.  So when the body experiences an allergen it will now react to this allergen with symptoms like sneezing, runny nose and fatigue.

To alleviate our strong reaction to allergens we can use essential oils that are specific to reducing inflammation, essential oils that detoxify the body and essential oils that boost the immune system.

With the help of these allergy soothing essential oils we can reduce our allergic reactions to these common molds, pollens and dander and increase our overall wellness and joy.

5 Essential Oils that Naturally Help Reduce Allergies and Boost Our Everyday Wellness And Joy

1.   Lavender- helps to reduce inflammation.  Lavender can bring calm to the mind, which helps the whole body to relax and unwind.

Can be used for:  Topical skin applications (in body oil)

Baths (mixed with Epsom salts)

Vaporization

2.   Roman Chamomile- a very effective anti-inflammatory essential oil, Roman Chamomile calms the body’s response to irritating allergens.

Can be used for:  Topical skin applications (in body oil)

Baths (mixed with Epsom salts)

Vaporization

3.   Juniper- an excellent essential oil to encourage gentle detoxification and elimination.  Especially suited to encourage elimination of waste by increasing urination.

Can be used for:  Topical skin applications (in body oil)

Baths (mixed with Epsom salts)

Vaporization

4.   Lemon- a refreshing and cleansing essential oil, Lemon helps to encourage the body to break down fat and release toxic build up while supporting drainage of the lymphatic system.  Lemon also boosts the immune system and inhibits bacteria growth.  These properties make Lemon a good choice for use as a household disinfectant.
   

 Can be used for:  Topical skin applications (in body oil)

Baths (mixed with Epsom salts)

Vaporization

5.   Frankincense- a wonderfully mild sweet smelling resinous essential oil that has an affinity with the respiratory system.  Frankincense helps us to be calm which allows for deeper breathing and greater relaxation.

Can be used for:  Topical skin applications (in body oil)

Baths (mixed with Epsom salts)

Vaporization

Evoke Aromatherapy uses these above mentioned essential oils in effective, easy to use and great smelling products that aim to improve our lifestyle Wellness and Joy.

Tame the Pain- a product for arthritis, painful joints, past ligament tears or strains and allergy relief.  Helps ease inflammation, which helps to ease pain and discomfort.
Contains Lavender, Frankincense, Juniper and Lemon
Use topically on the skin
http://evokearomatherapy.com/adult/tame-the-pain/

Spring Fling Body Oil Blend- a refreshing body oil to help you get moving while feeling nourished and loved.  Contains Juniper, Cypress, Lemon and Pink grapefruit.  This oil blend helps "clear out" winter stagnation.  It can also help soothe allergies.
http://evokearomatherapy.com/adult/spring-fling-body-oil/

Allergy Inhalation Stick- an easy to use stick of cotton encased in a plastic tube for ease of use, easy to carry in a pocket or purse for on the go inhalation.  The essential oils in this stick help to soothe the respiratory tract so that breathing is calmed, and sinuses open up.  A gentle yet effective way to combat allergies that affect the sinuses and Respiratory System.

Contains Roman Chamomile, Mandarin, Rosalina, Lemon 
http://evokearomatherapy.com/adult/allergy-inhalation-stick/

These products and more can be found at www.evokearomatherapy.com

Shipping is FREE for orders over $100 or if you are local to the Sooke B.C. area, shipping is FREE! 

Don’t see a product for you?  Contact me at info@evokearomatherapy.comto talk about getting a custom Aromatherapy product made just for you!

May Wellness and Joy be yours this Allergy Season!

With Love, Wendy <3

Please be advised that the information I share with you is based on my experiences and client experiences.  This information is being shared for educational purposes only.  Information is not intended to replace medical advice or care.

Contact your doctor if you have medical concerns.

Allergies in Children

According to a CDC study survey, 1 in 20  children have food allergies which is a 50% increase since the late 1990's, and 1 in 8 have contact allergies. Dr. Benjamin Perkus said at the Young Living Convention,  "kids and teens who are born abroad and immigrate to the United States are about half as likely to have asthma and allergies as those who are born in the U.S."


As a European who has lived in  several countries I have noticed a few things:

• More food in other countries contain less or no preservatives than here in USA.
• More  food in other countries contain natural food colorings (from vegetables) than here in USA.
• A lot of chemicals are forbidden in Europe but still allowed here in USA. American food manufactures have to make special products for the European market.
• Genetically modified food has been banned in many countries, and GMO food is required to be labeled in several countries. 
• The amount of vaccines children receive is less in many other countries than here in USA. Swedish children receive less vaccines than most other children in other countries and the amount of SID cases are among the lowest in the world. 

So I am not surprised to find out that children born abroad will develop less asthma and allergies than children born here in the U.S. The European Union has also taken an interest in what damage chemicals can do to children. It is now a law to label products aimed at children that contain artificial coloring.  EU recognizes that food dyes can cause allergies, asthma and cancer. 

Dr.Perkus recommends to use lavender, and an anti-microbial blend of rosemary cineol, clove, cinnamon, lemon and Eucalyptus radiata for children. He recommends to use the anti-microbial blend for mold. He also recommends to use probiotics and enzymes.

What to do about allergies
Fortunately as parents we can be proactive and protect our children here in the U.S. Whether your child is allergic or not, it has to start with the diet. 

• Make sure to purchase food that doesn't have any nasty chemicals, but as you will notice it will be hard to find good quality food in the stores. Your best bet is to make as much as possible from scratch and to buy organic. 
• Eat wholesome food with plenty of fruit and vegetables, replace the sugary snacks with some fruit, veggies, smoothies, chicken, eggs etc. 
• Make sure that your child receives sufficient amount of vitamins and minerals, it is said it is impossible to receive all the nutrients we need through food alone so purchase a good quality multivitamin. 
• Vitamin D and omega -3 fatty acids are said to decrease allergy symptoms.

Replace all the toxic household products and personal hygiene products with natural products. It doesn't have to be expensive, you can use vinegar and baking soda for a lot of things in the house. Check out my Natural Cleaning Post. 

It is recommended to keep a log once you notice your child show signs of allergies. It is important to ask what has your child touched, inhaled, smelled, eaten prior to the change. Contact and inhalant allergies are usually instant while food allergic are usually delayed 20 min - 2 hours.

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.

Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:

• Topical Application
• Inhaling Essential Oils
• Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?
• How to Dilute Essential Oils
• Vita Flex Technique

If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide. 

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives. 
Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.

Emergency Preparedness – Allergies

This is my fifth post in my Emergency Preparedness series where I address an important issue such as lack of access to medicine and medical care in case of emergencies. 

What if access to medication and medical care is denied?

 In my first post, Emergency Preparedness, I was wondering how people on prescribed medications would handle an emergency situation if access to medication and medical care is denied.  I encourage you to go back to my previous posts and read them. My previous posts cover  high blood pressure, anxiety & depression,  pain ,and  diabetes 

I urge you to take charge of your own health so you're better prepared for any situation where you might not be able to fill your prescription or use any medical facilities.

Natural solutions
Below are some natural solutions to the most prescribed drugs in America today.

Why essential oils?

• You can stockpile essential oils, and they have no expiration date if they are stored correctly. Herbs also lose their potency over time.
•  They are small enough so they can be put in a pocket if needed. 
• They are more potent so less amount is needed for healing. You have to drink 26 cups of peppermint tea in order to get the same healing effect as one drop of therapeutic peppermint essential oil. 

Treat the body holistically
It is important to remember to take a holistic approach to healing and not only rely on natural remedies. Dietary changes, living a toxin free life, exercise, sufficient rest and sleep, and incorporating other healing therapies into your life should also be considered. 

Okay, here we go:

#4 Allergy medications are some of the most prescribed drugs in our country

It is said that 35 millions suffer from allergies and many of them need prescription medications. 

• A German study found that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids decreased the allergy symptoms. A Swedish study found that children who regularly ate fish prior to the age of one had much lower allergies by the time they were four. Omega-3 fatty acids sources are eggs, krill oil, and grass fed meat.
• Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to allergies and more severe asthma in children. 
• Horseradish, hot chili peppers, and hot mustards are natural decongestants. 
• Locally produced honey which contains pollen spores, may act as a "natural allergy vaccine" according to many. They introduce a small amount of allergen by eating the honey and the immune system is activated, over time can build up the immune system against it.
•  Historically, quercetin rich food such as red grapes, red onions,  capers, black tea, and apples have been used to prevent a histamine release, meaning they are natural antihistamines.
• According to Steven Horne, the body needs to be purged from toxins and the immune system needs to be stimulated. All processed food with artificial chemicals add to the toxic burden of your body. Refined products are mucus forming and they don't do anything to relieve your allergies.
• Increase wholesome food, dark leafy vegetables, freshly squeezed fruit and vegetable juices in your diet. 
• According to Steven Horne, other nutrients that may be beneficial are selenium, zinc, pantothenic acid, and antioxidants.
• Other things that may play an important role in allergies are adrenal insufficiency, liver problems and leaky gut syndrome according to Steven Horne. 

Time for the oils:
It is said that lavender has anti-histamine properties. Studies also show that luteoln-7-orutinoside in peppermint has antihistamine properties. Gary Young says frankincense may help with allergies and Battaglia says it may be helpful for asthma. . Read my post, Essential Oils & Allergies for more detailed information. 

Remember
Never quit any prescribed medication on your own since it may be dangerous. Some medications needs to be weaned of slowly. Consult with your doctor first.

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.

Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:

• Topical Application
• Inhaling Essential Oils
• Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?
• How to Dilute Essential Oils
• Vita Flex Technique

If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide. 

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives. She also runs Naturally Sports & Wellness together with her husband.  
Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.

Sources:

Connie and Alan Higley, (Twelfth Edition, revised 2010). Reference Guide for Essential Oils. Abundant Health
Gary Young, ND (2006). Essential Oils, Integrative Medical Guide. Essential Science Publishing

Salvatore Battaglia (1995). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. The Perfect Potion Pty Ltd

Julie Behling  (2011). Medical Preparedness for Adults  E-book

Photo credit

This post is linked to:
Natural Living, Simple Lives Thursday, The Homeacre Hop, The Busy Bee,  All Things Thursday, Hearts 4 Home, Fight Back Friday, Small FootPrint Fridays, Sunday School Blog Carnival, Homemade Mondays, Natural Living Monday, Mop it Up Monday, Fat Tuesday, Healthy Tuesday Hop, Titus 2sdays, Titus 2 Tuesday, Domestically Divine, How to Tuesday, WFMW, The Mommy Club, Wildcrafting Wednesday, Healthy 2Day Wednesday, Wellness Wednesday,  Frugal Days, Sustainable Ways, Real Food Wednesday, Mama Moments Monday

Essential Oils & Allergies

The weather here in California has been lovely the last few days and I have enjoyed sitting outside soaking up some sun. Spring is the time when we feel awake and start living again after a long winter. If you suffer from allergies you probably don't enjoy the spring as much as you would like to. You probably suffer from congestion, have watery eyes, runny nose, earaches, and headaches. I know many people that have reduced their suffering by using natural remedies for their allergies. If you haven't tried natural remedies for your allergies yet, then it might be time to give it a try.

Triggers

As most of us know allergies can be triggered by many different things such as environmental chemicals, pollen, food, insect bites dander and dust. People with allergies may suffer from the following:

• Cramps, diarrhea, vomiting
• Dermatitis, rashes
• Itching lips, swelling of the tongue or lips
• Wheezing and labored breathing

Essential oils may be helpful
Essential oils may be of  help when suffering from allergies but it is also important to look into what is causing the allergy. Looking into the underlying causes of your allergy is important, my post Do You Have Allergies? will give you other natural tips to consider when suffering from allergies.

What we used on our dog
We managed to get our dog's congestionunder control with the help of frankincense, but we also changed her diet. We put a couple of drops of frankincense  on our hands and rubbed them together, then cupped them over her nose so that she could inhale the oil. It was an instant relief from her congestion. Our dog preferred frankincense since it also calmed her from the panic attacks she had when she couldn't breath. 

"An allergy is a damaging immune system response to a substance that does not bother most people." Reference Guide for Essential Oils

Antihistamines
According to the Reference Guide for Essential Oils,  Roman Chamomile, lavender and Melaleuca (tea tree) have antihistamine properties. It is important to avoid chamomile if you're allergic to the ragweed.  Studies how that luteolin- 7-orutinoside in peppermint  has antihistamine properties.

The Reference Guide for Essential Oils writes that patchouli, elemi (rashes), eucalyptus, melissa - Lemon Balm (skin and respiratory), and spkikenard are other single oils used for allergies.

What we do for allergies:

• We apply lavender to the sinuses to work as an antihistamine.
• We apply to bottom of feet.
• We put 2 or more drops into the palm of our left hand, rub clockwise with the flat palm or the right hand. Cup our hands together over the nose and mouth and inhale deeply. Don't touch your eyes!
• We apply oils to a cotton ball, tissue, or handkerchief and place in the air vent of the car. Make sure you don't use any synthetic materials. 
• Rub 2 or more drops on our wrists, chest, neck, or under the nose and ears. (Indirect inhalation)

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.

Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:

• Topical Application
• Inhaling Essential Oils
• Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?
• How to Dilute Essential Oils
• Vita Flex Technique

If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide. 

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives. 

Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.

Sources:

Connie and Alan Higley, (Twelfth Edition, revised 2010). Reference Guide for Essential Oils. Abundant Health

Photo credit

This post is linked to:
Titus 2sdays, Domestically Divine, Mop it Up Monday, Mostly Homemade, Thank Your Body Thursday
Seasonal Celebration Wednesday, Party Wave Wednesday, Simple Lives Thursday, Sunday School Blog Carnival, Natural Living Monday, The Gathering Spot, Teach Me Tuesday, Titus 2 Tuesdays, Waste not Want Not Wednesday, Healthy 2day Wednesday, WFMW, Tuesday Greens, Frugal Days, Sustainable Ways
Wildcrafting Wednesday, Whole Foods Wednesday, The Mommy Club, Natural Living Link-Up, The Homeacre Hop, Small Foot Print Fridays, Healthy Tuesday Hop, All Things Thursday Link Up, Mama Moments Monday, Wellness Wednesday