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Spring is such a beautiful season but for many people who suffer from seasonal allergy symptoms it can be a misery.
Every tree, flower and weed releases pollen. However, not everyone has a heightened sensitivity or allergic reactions to all pollens. It’s important to pay attention and recognize what triggers your allergy symptoms. For some it is trees, others it is grass and yet others it is flowers.
Allergies are caused by an immune over-reaction that targets basically harmless material causing inflammation. When you have allergies, your immune system makes antibodies that identify a particular allergen as harmful, even though it isn't. When you're exposed to the allergen again, these antibodies can release a number of immune system chemicals, such as histamine, that cause allergy symptoms.
Common seasonal allergy symptoms include:
Congestion Post-nasal drip
Excess mucus production
Sneezing
Runny nose
Itchy, watery eyes
Scratchy throat
Tickle/irritation in the ears
Mood swings
Irritability
Asthma
Hives
Eczema
Itching of the nose or roof of the mouth
There are many natural allergy treatments that can be quite effective. I am going to cover several of them.
Natural supplements: Quercetin: The supplement quercetin works to control inflammation by reducing the release of histamine and other mediators of allergic reactions from cells. Quercetin, a plant flavonoid, has antihistamine and has anti-inflammatory properties. Quercetin is thought to be the most effective antihistamine and anti allergic flavonoid. For best results, take 500mg three times daily with meals. Research shows that quercetin, the flavonoid that gives fruits and vegetables their rich color, stops the production and release of histamines. Please note that quercetin may interfere with certain medications, including antibiotics, cyclosporine and other medications changed by the liver.
Vitamin C:
Vitamin C, is considered a natural antihistamine because it inhibits the release of histamine by mast cells (cells found in connective tissue). Vitamin C also boosts the immune system.
Probiotics
Probiotics modify the gut flora, support the immune system and can alter the natural course of an allergy; they show promise in the treatment and prevention of allergies. Studies have shown that supplementing with probiotics has a clinical benefit for children suffering from asthma and allergic rhinitis, and allergies that affect the nose. Probiotic foods including sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha and organic plain yogurt are also extremely beneficial since their fermentation process creates beneficial bacteria that are similar to the organisms found in probiotic supplements. Just like probiotic supplements, these fermented foods boost the immune system and help to relieve allergies.
Food Intolerance People who react to pollens may also have a hypersensitivity to certain foods. For example people allergic to grass pollens also reacted to tomatoes, peanuts, wheat, apple, carrot, celery, peach, and melon. And those with ragweed allergy may experience an allergic response to cucumbers, melons, zucchini, sunflower seeds, bananas and chamomile tea.
To find out which foods aggravate symptoms of allergies in a particular individual, an elimination of these foods for two weeks is recommended in order to isolate the foods that may aggravate certain symptoms. Avoiding wheat and dairy products is highly recommended if you are experiencing seasonal allergies; they act as hay fever catalysts and can cause mucus production.
Nasal Wash
A nasal wash can help to remove inhaled pollen from the nose and prevent attachment to the mucous lining of the nose. Use a Neti Pot with a salt solution daily. Use this solution to rinse the nostrils. A Neti pot is a very effective way to relieve nasal congestion and flush out mucus. Use once or twice daily to flush your nasal passages for relief.
Home Care
Do not use chemicals to clean your home and do not to use any pesticides or herbicides.
Do not wear shoes in your home; take shoes off at door, vacuum regularly.
On high pollen count days, keep windows closed, and do not dry clothes outside.
Shower before bed. Pollen and dust left on your skin and in your hair overnight can make your symptoms worse.
Wash clothes and bedding. Freshly laundered bedding and clothes help to reduce exposure to allergens.
Wipe down pets. Pets that spend time outdoors come into the home covered in pollen. Wipe them down with a damp washcloth to limit your exposure to pollen and dust.
Diffusing essential oils, such as eucalyptus, lavender, lemon and peppermint oil, helps to open up the nasal passages and lungs and relieves stress.
Peppermint oil supports the respiratory system. Inhaling Peppermint helps promote clear airways and easy breathing when diffused.
Eucalyptus oil promotes feelings of clear breathing, open airways. Applied topically on the chest Eucalyptus promotes feelings of clear breathing.
Lemon oil assists with seasonal respiratory discomfort. Diffusing Lemon oil will also help cleanse and purify the air and surfaces in your home. Whether you are trying to eliminate airborne odors, or just like to keep your house smelling fresh, bright, and clean.
Lavender oil is renowned for its calming and balancing effects, and skin-supporting benefits. Lavender oil supports the immune system. It may strengthen your body against allergens.
doTERRA TriEase®Softgels were developed to promote a healthy respiratory system when needed most. This seasonal blend contains equal parts Lemon, Lavender, and Peppermint essential oils, known for their ability to maintain clear breathing and a healthy immune response.
Local Honey
A randomized, controlled study in the International Archives of Allergy and Immunology, showed patients that consumed local honey had significantly better control of their allergy symptoms than those on traditional allergy medications. The honey-eaters also had fewer days with severe allergy symptoms and took fewer antihistamines compared to the control group. Why? Local honey is known as an effective long-term treatment for allergy symptoms because it is believed to contain small amounts of the local pollen that is likely to be causing the reaction. Over time, consumption of local honey creates a higher tolerance to pollen. Consuming 1 to 2 tablespoons per day may decrease pollen sensitivity, reduce congestion and heal itchy, watery eyes and runny noses.
Most over the counter allergy medications have side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, upset stomach, blurry vision, a dry mouth/nose and throat, and difficulty urinating. Natural allergy remedies and treatments are nothing to sneeze at – some may enhance or even take the place of allergy medications. Next time you have an allergy attack or flare up try some of the above suggestions; it might be the solution you are looking for.
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