Did you barely have time to celebrate the arrival of spring before the sniffly, sneezy reality of seasonal allergies burst your bubble? The sinus pressure, headaches, and congestion that come along this time of year are almost enough to make me miss winter (huge emphasis on “almost”), but luckily there are ways to find relief. Natural, DIY ways, even — such as herbal tea and an essential oil facial steam.
This anti-allergy treatment duo utilizes nettle leaf, which has antihistamine properties and has been shown to relieve allergy symptoms; honey, which can minimize allergic reactions to pollen; and eucalyptus, a natural anti-inflammatory that will help open up your nasal passages and clear your blocked sinuses.
The best part though, is how this treatment naturally comes together as a little pampering session. Clear an hour of your schedule this weekend, brew yourself some tea, steam your face, maybe catch up on “Scandal,” and enjoy a break not just from your allergy symptoms, but the general stress of life. Sounds dreamy, right?
READ MORE: 7 Foods That Fight Springtime Allergies
DIY Anti-Allergy Spa Treatment Recipe
Ingredients:
- Boiling water
- 1 Tbsp raw, local honey (available at farmers’ markets and local health food stores)
- Nettle leaf tea (this is a great one)
- 2 or 3 drops of eucalyptus oil
Materials:
- A large bowl
- Towel
Instructions:
1. Boil approximately 5 cups of water.
2. Brew yourself a cup of nettle tea. Add honey and stir to dissolve. Let steep.
3: While the tea is steeping , pour the remaining boiling water into a large bowl and mix in the eucalyptus essential oil. Lean your face over the water (making sure to keep a few inches from the surface to avoid burning yourself) and put the towel over your head while you breathe in the eucalyptus scent. Steam for a few minutes at a time to open your pores, soothe itchy eyes and skin, and clear out your sinuses.
4: Put on “Scandal” and marvel at how much better you feel already. Realize this spring thing might not be so bad after all!
