An allergy may be triggered by touching certain things, inhaling irritants like pollen, or eating certain foods. For certain susceptible individuals, these can trigger an allergic reaction due to a hypersensitive immune system. Hay fever is seasonal, however, being constantly exposed to triggers could cause the symptoms to last year-round. Using natural methods can help to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with seasonal allergies.
Let’s explore what some of these natural treatments are.
1. Nutrition – What To Eat
You can try to reduce allergy symptoms by eating a low-fat, high-complex carbohydrate diet. Also, drink water that’s half your body weight in ounces. So basically, if you were 160 pounds, you would drink 80 ounces of water. Include foods like dark green leafy vegetables, cabbage, carrots, beets, yam, ginger, garlic and onions.
2. Nutrition – What To Eliminate
You may also want to eliminate or reduce caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, dairy products, red meat, wheat, sugar and peanuts from your diet. Remember to go slowly at first. Don’t just stop suddenly. If you are consuming these, try reducing gradually until you can eliminate it completely, if that’s your goal.
3. Supplements
If you’re not already doing so, consider taking vitamin and mineral supplements that you can purchase at the health food stores. Include bioflavonoids, as these are natural antihistamines. Try taking probiotics which are ‘live’ bacteria which is excellent for your digestive health. It may sound weird to actually take bacteria but probiotics contain good and helpful bacteria which you need. Take vitamins A, C and E and also zinc. Speak to your doctor and find out what your recommended dosage should be.
4. Herbal & Homeopathic Remedies
You might want to visit a naturopath to get a specific amount of herbal and homeopathic medication that’s right just for you. Some of these remedies can help in giving some relief for hay fever and other allergies. Nux vomica can help with a daytime runny nose and a dry nose at night. Euphrasia may help with coughing and sneezing. Wyethia can help for an itchy nose and throat. These are some ingredients in homeopathic medicine.
Dong quai can be used as an antihistamine and anti-inflammatory. Gingko biloba contains bioflavonoids and is an anti-inflammatory as well as an antioxidant. Milk thistle can help to reduce allergic reactions. Red clover aids in building resistance to allergies. Yarrow helps to reduce congestions and secretions. These are all part of herbal remedies.
Obviously, never try any of these on your own. You need to see a qualified and reputable medical professional who will be able to tell you what you need to take and how much of it. You may be taking medications for other conditions, so only a professional can tell if there will be any issues by taking anything else. Be safe and be well.
