We turn to natural allergy remedies when seasonal allergies show up producing fatigue and other unruly symptoms. Spring is such a beautiful time of year and it can be difficult to enjoy if pollen allergies keep you from getting outside for a walk to enjoy nature. Different allergies are caused by different triggers; for instance, pollen and dust cause itchy eyes and nose, coughing, watery and swollen eyes, and a runny nose. Pollen can also cause skin reactions, such as rashes, itching, flaking, and peeling. Some natural remedies may help keep histamine, a chemical in the body that causes many allergy symptoms, under control. Here is a list of some of our favorite holistic resources, foods and practices to remedy common allergy symptoms.
1) Nasal irrigation with a neti pot or nasal wash may help break up thick mucus and ease swelling. A saltwater solution with iodine-free salt and baking soda mixed with warm purified water supports gentle nasal irrigation.
2) Bromelain is a natural enzyme which comes from pineapple. For some, it may help to ease inflammation and swelling and may help to thin mucus in the nose.
3) Quercetin is a natural chemical that acts like a natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory. Quercetin is found in teas, apples, onions and can also be found in supplement form.
4) For some people stinging nettle leaf may be useful in reducing the symptoms of hay fever by acting as an anti-inflammatory. Some research has linked treatment with stinging nettle leaf to relief of symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
5) Local honey and local bee pollen can be used to help your body to build resistance to the kind of pollen you are allergic to. Bee pollen contains nectar, enzymes, flower pollen, wax, and honey. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-fungal properties because it is contains pollen that causes your allergies.
6) Various foods can thin mucus and clear congestion and can be used as an easy remedy.
Spicy foods with heat such as peppers and ginger minimize the production of pro-inflammatory proteins, which reduces the symptoms of allergy. Turmeric also has anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat allergies and other inflammatory conditions. Turmeric’s active ingredient, curcumin, minimizes the symptoms of many inflammatory conditions and can be effective in reducing irritation and swelling caused by allergic rhinitis. You can take turmeric in form of teas, pills, tinctures, or eaten as food.
7) Traditional Chinese Medicine treats the underlying problem. Acupuncture is non-invasive and seeks to restore balance in the body by helping to reduce pain, ease swelling and inflammation, and lessen mucus by eliminating the obstruction in the pathways (meridians). Acupuncture needles are inserted in acupoints to eliminate the obstruction causing allergies, remove deficiencies, and eliminate excess, as well as correct imbalances. Acupuncture opens the pathways and allows the flow of qi; this eliminates the symptoms and reactions to allergies. Various Chinese herbal remedies can also be used to treat allergies.
At Bradbury Clinic we provide chiropractic care and acupuncture, as well as herbal medicines used in Chinese Medicine to reduce allergy symptoms. We welcome you to book an appointment at our clinic on Saturdays 10:30 - 6:00, Mondays and Tuesdays 10:00 - 6:00: www.bradburyclinic.com