Helpful during pollen season!
Three ways to use eucalyptus

Healing Plaza January 27, 2020

Why not try aromatherapy to relieve stress caused by pollen? When you're affected by pollen, your nose, eyes, and skin become sensitive, and your body becomes tired easily. Be sure to read the precautions before trying it out!

The recommended aroma for hay fever prevention is "eucalyptus"

Eucalyptus has a sharp, forest-like scent. It has long been considered effective for respiratory problems. There are reports that inhaling eucalyptus essential oil steam can relieve nasal congestion (according to the official textbook for the Aromatherapy Certification Examination published by the Japan Aroma Environment Association), and it is recommended for hay fever and cold-like symptoms.

Eucalyptus essential oil is not that expensive, so it's convenient to buy a bottle.
There are several varieties, but the most common is Eucalyptus globulus.
It contains a lot of 1,8-cineole, a compound found in eucalyptus.
The compound 1,8-cineole is a little irritating, so if you want a soft scent with less irritation, Eucalyptus radiata is a good choice.
The Globulus species is the easiest to obtain, but if possible, compare the scents at a store and choose the one you like best.

Three ways to use eucalyptus

Here are three ways to use eucalyptus when you're worried about pollen.

Tip 1: Aromatherapy

All you have to do is place 1-3 drops of eucalyptus essential oil on a cotton ball on a small plate. Because essential oils are highly volatile, the scent will gradually spread throughout the space. You can easily use it around your computer or in your living room.

If you're feeling irritated due to pollen allergies, try blending sweet orange, or if you're feeling unmotivated, try blending refreshing lemon. Be sure to ventilate your room from time to time.

*Notes

If the tray you place the cotton on is made of plastic, it may melt (due to the action of the essential oils seeping out of the cotton).

If you place it in the bedroom, do not place it near your head as it may cause eye tears due to the irritation.

Tip 2: Apply eucalyptus oil to your décolleté

Applying diluted eucalyptus oil to the décolleté (the area from the shoulders to the upper chest) will release a pleasant, fragrant scent that will help you breathe more deeply. A small amount of the ingredients will also be absorbed through the skin.
By the way, a famous topical cold medicine also contains eucalyptus oil!

[How to make oil]

<Materials>

15ml of carrier oil (100% plant oil) such as jojoba oil
1 drop of eucalyptus essential oil

Mix the above two ingredients well and you're done.
Apply an appropriate amount to your décolleté and back to leave your skin feeling moisturized.

*Notes

If it does not suit your skin, discontinue use and rinse.
Use any remaining oil within one week.

Tip 3: Spray Eucalyptus Spray on Your Mask!

You may see phrases like "put a drop of essential oil on your mask." However, this is a no-no. Essential oils have very strong scents. This is because the components are concentrated after distillation, unlike the state they are in when they exist in nature. Strong scents can be irritating and can cause choking, coughing, or sneezing.

Also, because masks cover your nose and mouth all the time, they don't allow for ventilation, so you end up inhaling the essential oil scent for a long time, and before you know it, you might find yourself becoming intoxicated by the scent.

A mask is meant to block something, not to constantly inhale scents. Take the mask off every now and then and breathe in unscented air.

It is a good idea to lightly spray a very diluted essential oil onto the mask. You can also spray it onto a handkerchief or cotton ball. Occasionally hold it close to your nose and inhale. Of course, spraying it into the air is also fine.

[How to make aroma spray]