Millions of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies, says the College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. An estimated 40 million people experience itchy and watery eyes, prickly and itchy ears, sneezing, runny noses and nasal congestion. These symptoms normally occur because the body is reacting to some environmental stress factor such as dust, mold or pollen. For some people, relief can be found at any drugstore counter where there is a wide range of allergy relief products. Other people might prefer a more natural treatment that has fewer side effects.
Neti Pots
Author Warren Jefferson writes in his book, "The Neti Pot for Better Health," that the nose is the main gateway into the respiratory system and acts like a filter to prevent certain debris from entering (see References below). Because the nose is a filter, it needs to be cleansed to work properly. The neti pot is a safe and effective way to keep debris such as pollens and other allergens cleared from the nasal passageways. A neti pot is a small vessel shaped like a tea pot in which warm saltwater is added to irrigate the nose.
Probiotics
Dr. Holly Lucille, author and nationally known licensed naturopath, is a regular on the Discovery Health Channel. She says that probiotics are a good way to boost your total body immunity, and that the healthy functioning of the immune system depends on a healthy digestive system. She maintains that reinforcing the digestive system is one of the most productive things people can do to get allergy relief.
Herbs
David Y. Wong, M.D. author of "The Complete Guide to Vitamins Herbs and Supplements," asserts that herbs can be a useful alternative to treat seasonal allergies. Herbs such as licorice root and quercetin can act as antihistamines that aid in the relief of certain allergy symptoms. Stinging nettles can help itchy eyes and sneezing while angelica, also known as dong quai, can help alleviate some seasonal allergy symptoms. Herbs can be taken as tinctures, capsules, or teas.
Bee Pollen
Mark Stengler, a naturopathic doctor, says in his book, "The Natural Physician's Healing Therapies: Proven Medical Remedies that Medical Doctors Don't Know About," that bee pollen can help build the immune system and protect you from certain airborne pollens that you breathe in. Bee pollen contains trace amounts of the allergens that cause allergies and, when taken, can help reduce the severity of the symptoms by introducing the allergens, in small amounts, to the body.
References
- Complete Guide to Vitamins Herbs, and Supplements; pg.162 ; David Y. Wong M.D.; 2006
- The Neti Pot for Better Health; Warren Jefferson ; 2005
- The Natural Physician's Healing Therapies: Proven Medical Remedies That Medical Doctors Don't Know About; Mark Stengler, N.D.; 2001
