Allergies are triggered when the body reacts strongly to a substance that is not necessarily harmful. In the United States, 35 million people are affected yearly with this disorder, according to Dr. Jacqueline Krohn, author of "Allergy Relief and Prevention." Controlling allergies, supervised under a health practitioner, can be effective by combining diet and lifestyle changes, gradually rebalancing the body. Along with these alterations, supplementing Chinese herbs will provide comfort and relief to the allergy sufferer.
Wild Angelica
Allergy symptoms include headaches, chronic stuffy noses and respiratory problems. Wild angelica possesses expectorant properties so it works well to clear out the nasal passages. According to James Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," the herb can balance histamine levels. Allergy reactions are provoked by the environment and food decreasing the quality of life. Along with clearing sinus headaches, wild angelica rebuilds the blood and helps relieve pain by reducing pressure around the eyes. Take 300 to 500 milligrams daily in capsule or powder form to get results.
Scullcap
Scullcap has been used for over 2000 years in Chinese medicine. Beside clearing dampness in the body, it can also reduce heat. Clearing dampness reduces mucus. The herb provides powerful flavonoids benefiting allergies and sinus infections, according to Balch. It blocks tissue constriction and aids in keeping the membranes relaxed in the nasal passages. Steep two to three dried scullcap herbs in hot water for 10 minutes. The herb can also be found as a tincture in herb shops and natural food stores.
Magnolia Flower
According to traditional Chinese medicine, magnolia flower's energy travels towards the lung and stomach towards the face settling into the nose. Sometimes known as xho yi hua, magnolia flower effectively treats nasal conditions. It is a strong healer for allergic headaches due to its ability to open the nasal passages. Sometimes referred to a "barbarian bud" in traditional Chinese medicine, the lily shaped flower is considered a safe herb. Magnolia flower is available in many forms including powders, capsules, ointment or tea. Applying the ointment to the nasal lining will decrease mucus production. Tea leaves should be wrapped in cloth before steeping in hot water for 10 minutes.
Chamomile
Chamomile is helpful for respiratory allergies due to its anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties. Chamomile tea can be consumed up to three times per day and is calming to the body. Balch recommends not using chamomile for a long period of time as it may lead to a ragweed allergy.
References
- "Allergy Relief & Prevention"; Krohn, Taylor, Larson; 2000
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Balch; 2000
- HolisticOnline: Wild Angelica
- Chinese herbs: Chamomile
- Naturopath Digest: Magnolia
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