Tired of feeling drowsy, wound up or having higher blood pressure, not to mention the dry mouth that occurs when taking some allergy medicines? Millions of allergy sufferers experience the same thing. Not only do the medicines make many feel bad in other ways, they can be expensive, particularly if a prescription is needed to get relief.
A number of natural remedies, some of which have been around for centuries, offer significant relief. Others are newer recommendations, the products of scientific research indicating what to take or avoid. Some may even be used in conjunction with prescriptions, with doctor approval. Others are common sense tips that no one considers during the midst of an attack.
Allergy sufferers may not be able to completely eliminate their syumptoms, but they can begin by not exacerbating their condition in the first place.
Avoid Allergen Triggers
Virtually no one can live in a vacuum, but seasonal allergy sufferers should stay indoors as much as possible when allergen levels are high. Keep windows closed and run air conditioning, changing the filters frequently. Purchase a separate air purifier and use it to screen out additional pollen. In addition, buy high quality filters for your air conditioner and air purifier as these will do a better job of trapping allergens. Keep homes as clean as possible, but don't clean moldy or dusty areas on days when allergen levels are highest.
Consume Fewer Histamine-Producing Foods
Foods consumed can have an effect on the severity of allergies. That's because some, including many cheeses, processed meats, dairy products, and alcohol help the body to produce histamine, which is what the body releases from mast cells when allergens are present, thereby producing typical allergy symptoms.
Try a Neti Pot
These little vessels have been used in India for thousands of years to flush the sinuses. To use one, mix a quarter to half teaspoon of noniodized salt into a cup of lukewarm water and pour it into the pot. Lean over a sink, tipping the head to one side. Put the spout of neti into one nostril and allow the water to drain out the other. Repeat on the other side, tilting your head the opposite way. Use the neti about twice a day during allergy season, especially after spending time outdoors.
Alternative Therapies Work for Some
Acupressure is not acupuncture, but something similar. Some allergy suffers report that by applying steady pressure with index fingers at key points starting with the nostrils, moving to the corners of the eyes, then to the hand, back of the neck, and ending with with area between the eyes provides significant relief. Apply about 30 seconds of pressure with a circular motion at each point.
Sinus acupressure points are on the back of the hand in the "web," and in the hollow on each side of the neck behind the ears.
Similar to immunotherapy shots, but a gentler way to acclimate the body to allergens is sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT). In this therapy, patients put small doses of any allergen under the tongue for two minutes, then swallow. This daily therapy begins before pollen season for seasonal allergy sufferers, but can be used to treat year-round allergies.
Herbal Allergy Remedies
A long-time remedy in Europe, butterbur, derived from a common weed, is becoming more common in the United States. Butterbur is reportedly as effective as the drug cetrizine, the active ingredient in Zyrtec. Be careful with butterbur as it's in the same family as ragweed and could worsen symptoms in some cases. Effects of taking this remedy over a long period of time are also unknown.
Stinging nettle is a common weed has many of the same properties as medications used to treat allergies, but without producing dry mouth and drowsiness. Nettle inhibits production of histamine within the body. It's usually sold in capsules of freeze-dried extract of its leaves. About 300 mg. daily will provide relief for most people.
Often found in cough and cold remedies, eucalyptus relieves nasal congestion and is used in various oils and liniments to relieve pain. Its vapors clear congestion and loosen mucus and is especially effective when used in conjunction with steam. In lozenge form, eucalyptus increases the production of saliva, thus reducing the urge to cough.
Alfalfa is thought to improve the runny nose, sneezing and itching present in allergic rhinitis. Additionally, alfalfa is believed to nourish the nervous system and to calm the immune system which allows irritated mucus membranes to return to normal.
Apple cider vinegar contains healing properties and is used to ease sinus infections as well as to treat allergies to pets, foods, and various environmental agents. It reduces mucus in sinuses, soothes sore throats, and shortens the duration of colds when used with a chest compress.
Most natural allergies are safe to use, but it's always a good idea to consult a doctor first before using them. Immediately discontinue a remedy if symptoms worsen.
Sources:
RaySahelian.com: Natural Antihistamines
NaturalAntihistamine.net: Natural Antihistamine
AllergyEscape.com: Natural Allergy Treatment
Arlene Miles - Versatile. That's how I describe myself and my writing in one word. I have 30 years' experience in various forms of media with most ...
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