Happy spring, Esscential Beauties! Yes, we are two months into the season AND less than one month until summer, BUT we are just starting to experience spring-like temperatures consistently in the Mid-Atlantic region. For many of us, the calendar did not disappoint. Seasonal allergies fell in step with vernal equinox. Itchy eyes, nose, and throat and incessant sneezing have held up their end of the “Spring Agreement”. In addition to suffering with seasonal allergies, some of us are dealing with skin allergies. Red, irritated, itchy skin can be just as annoying as seasonal allergies. External irritants (e.g., soaps, detergents, and solvents), food, illnesses, and medication can cause skin allergies.
Eczema and hives are two of the most common skin allergies. Eczema is characterized by intense itching and inflammation. If infected, the skin may develop small fluid-filled bumps. Hives is an allergic reaction characterized by raised red patches on the skin. Hives are triggered when the immune system releases histamine. Both conditions can be chronic and severe.
While traditional medication is often the method for treating these skin allergies, essential oils are a holistic and safe solution to these conditions. Some essential oils contain phytohormones (plant hormones) or have a hormonal action, which promotes a firming effect on the skin, stimulates the metabolism of the skin cells, and exerts a rejuvenating action. While a single essential oil can treat a certain skin allergy, a synergy (a blend of two or more essential oils) would yield a higher therapeutic value because it contains multiple chemical compounds that would interact with one another. Alone or combined, some suggested essential oils for eczema include:
Cedarwood
Geranium
German chamomile
Helichrysum
Lavender
For hives, I recommend the following essential oils:
Helichrysum
Lavender
Myrrh
Palmarosa
Patchouli
Ravensara
Roman chamomile
Rose geranium
Add these skin-soothing oils to your bath with bath salts to ease inflamed skin and reduce the stress that aggravates eczema. Or combine the soothing effects of a cool or cold compress with essential oils to reduce swelling, pain and itching associated with hives.
As we embrace the warmer temperatures, take care of yourself and your skin.
Peace, love & healthy skin!
LA~
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