Ahhh…summer is here! I crave this time of year in Minnesota because for a short four to six weeks my body is able to completely thaw out before the cool of fall comes in and blasts a chill into my bones.
As a native Floridian, the cold and I just don’t jive. But the cold weather is the least of my concerns. According to the American College of Asthma, Allergy, and Immunology, “Asthma and allergic diseases, such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever), food allergy, and eczema, are common for all age groups in the United States.
Asthma affects more than 24 million people in the U.S., including more than 6 million children. Symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis occur in spring, summer and/or early fall. They are usually caused by allergic sensitivity to pollens from trees, grasses or weeds, or to airborne mold spores.” [1]
This time of year is tough for me and many others because of seasonal allergies, which can really put a damper on summer festivities! Before I discovered some natural alternatives for my seasonal allergies, I would dread going outside, my windows and doors would stay shut all year round to avoid pollen or airborne mold spores from entering our home, and I would always have some kind of allergy medication available with me at all times no matter where I would go. After suffering from asthma for many, many years, I just didn’t take my chances.
But after my fifth child was born, I began researching ways to support my body naturally. I was tired of feeling like I had an elephant on my chest, tired of dried out nasal passages or nasal passages that just wouldn’t stop flowing, and I was tired of feeling tired.
Now, I focus on taking a proactive approach to stay on top of things by preparing my body for the allergy season. As a certified clinical aromatherapist, I not only focus on supporting the respiratory system but full-body support. I like simple, affordable, and effective. This is how I like to tackle my seasonal allergies:
- -Hydration
- -Immune support
- -Respiratory support
Hydration is important for keeping the body healthy. According to Harvard Health, “Drinking fluids is crucial to staying healthy and maintaining the function of every system in your body, including your heart, brain, and muscles.”[2] Harvard Health recommends drinking 30-50 fluid ounces a day, but be sure to check with your health provider if you are not sure how much you need. Spread out your water intake throughout the day.
Immune support helps my body fight. My two favorite ways to boost my immune system are quality Vitamin C (like Super C chewables) and Young Living Thieves essential oil blend with immune stimulating essential oils including Syzygium aromaticum (Clove), Rosmarinus officinalis) Rosemary, and Citrus limon (Lemon).[3] I mix Thieves essential oil 1:4 and apply it to the back of my neck and bottom of feet one to two times a day.
Respiratory support helps keep my bronchial passages open and helps me combat the day to day seasonal irritants floating in the air. For respiratory support, I use Young Living’s R.C.™ Essential Oil blend which is a powerful blend essential oils for bronchial and sinus support including Picea mariana (Black Spruce), Cupressus sempervirens (Cypress), and three types of Eucalyptus oils (E. globulus, E. radiata, and E. citriodora).[4] I dilute RC 1:1 and apply it on my sinuses, chest, and back of neck. Then I cup my hands over my nose and mouth and inhale five times to open up my airways. I also add 4-8 drops into my diffuser and run it in my home.
I no longer dread going outside. I can enjoy a cup of tea on my deck as I watch my kids play on the swings and ride bikes. I no longer stress about the pollen floating in the air around me. I can take a walk in the morning when the dew is shining on the blades of grass and delight in the invigorating aroma of nature. These are simple joys that I just don’t take for granted.
I have been using this method for years with effective results. I have been blessed to support a number of people who have been challenged with seasonal allergies. They each have their own story. You can have your own story too. Let’s talk and we will work together to customize a combination of essential oils that work with the uniquely orchestrated chemistry of your body.
Be proactive in supporting your body naturally through the allergy season and beyond. Don’t let pesky pollen and murky mold hold you back from enjoying the simple joys in life. Choose JOY.
Clinical aromatherapists are not medical doctors or medical advisors. We do not diagnose, treat, or prescribe medications for diseases. We encourage our clients to do their own research and evaluate the implementation of any recommended natural care options.
[1] https://acaai.org/news/facts-statistics/allergies
[2] https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-importance-of-staying-hydrated
[3] Life Science Essential Oil Desk Reference
[4] Life Science Essential Oil Desk Reference
Dr. Letticia Callies (a.k.a. Dr. Joy) is on a mission to spread joy around the world. She helps people who are stuck or overwhelmed by helping them get the results they need to live out their joyful purpose. She uses a combination of evidence-based strategies to help you bounce back when you fall, empower and encourage you in your faith, improve your overall wellness, and help you discover more time to do what you love. Her joyful demeanor and compassionate communication help motivate her clients to make positive changes that simply become second nature.
Dr. Callies is the wife of her best friend for over 20 years; she is a mom to four boys and two girls. She is the founder of JOYFull Inspirations, LLC, an author, homeschool educator, worship dancer, and joy-lettering journalist. She enjoys spending time with her family, sampling tea, leading joy-handlettering Bible studies, and creating healthy recipes in the kitchen.