Allergy symptoms are common and can include sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, skin rash, nasal congestion and even chronic sinusitis. They are the result of a histamine reaction in the body (when the body responds to harmful substances). Some allergens, such as peanuts, eggs, shellfish and chocolate, may be completely harmless to most people. While others, such as dust, mold, pollen and pet dander, are more common. Conventional medical treatments include antihistamines and prescription steroids. Fortunately, a few natural remedies may help eliminate allergy symptoms.
Herbs
Certain herbal supplements are used to prevent allergies and treat allergy symptoms. Clayton College of Natural Health's online herb guide lists several herbs used to treat allergies and other sinus issues. Angelica strengthens the immune system and is used to treat allergies, colds and other bronchial problems. Coleus is an East Indian herb that is a natural antihistamine. It is antispasmodic and used to treat both asthma and allergies. Ma Huang (also known as ephedra) is a Chinese herb that is used to treat asthma, hay fever, allergies, sinus congestion and the common cold. It is a natural stimulant and should not be used by people with high blood pressure or heart disease. Horehound dilates the blood vessels and bronchial tubes and helps facilitate breathing. It strengthens the respiratory system and is used to treat coughs, colds and asthma. Thyme is not only a common cooking herb, but is considered a whole-body tonic. It helps loosen mucus and is used to treat respiratory infections, colds, asthma and allergies. Many of these herbs also work well together. Take herbs as directed, as individual doses may vary.
Nasal Irrigation
Nasal irrigation is based on ancient Eastern internal cleansing practices. The yogic practice of Shakti Kriyas uses a tool called a neti pot to make the process easier. A neti pot looks like a small watering can with a long spout. One end of the spout is placed in one nostril. Then, with the head tilted to one side, a mild salt water solution is poured into the nose and drained out of the other side. The process is then repeated for the opposite nostril.
Yogis teach that Shakti Kriyas cleansing practices should be practiced regularly, at least once a year, to prevent illness. However, they may be employed more regularly to combat sinusitis and prevent allergies. Dr. David Rabago of the University of Wisconsin Department of Family Medicine, conducted several studies on the effects of nasal irrigation. His team concluded that the practice may be effective as an adjunctive therapy for chronic sinus, acute upper respiratory infection (common cold), acute sinusitis and allergic rhinitis.
Dietary Modification
If allergies are diet-related, the natural approach is simply to eliminate allergens from the diet. Some allergens may produce an obvious allergic reaction, which requires medical treatment. Those foods should be avoided completely. However, some may experience milder symptoms, such as sinus congestion, headache, upset stomach or other gastrointestinal distress. These are sometimes referred to as food sensitivities. Doctors at the University of Maryland Medical Center stress the importance of reading food labels and working with your doctor to determine the offending foods.
One way to determine which foods are the problem is to follow a simple elimination diet. Begin by following a cleansing diet of whole grains, legumes, fresh fruits and vegetables for one to two weeks. This diet is free of most common allergens and helps get rid of toxins in the body. During the cleansing period, do not consume any dairy, eggs, fish, shellfish, nuts or meats. After two weeks, reintroduce these items back into the diet one at a time. Try only one food item per day. Note any changes in digestive function, the sinuses or other acute symptoms, such as headaches. Once you've determine which foods cause adverse reactions, eliminate them from your diet.
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