Finding relief from common allergies is no easy feat. Traditional medical remedies for allergies have their cons too, as prescription and over-the-counter medications can have undesirable side effects, and medical treatments can be prohibitively expensive. Complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) offer a variety of different approaches for dealing with allergies, also called allergic rhinitis. Some of these are supported by scientific evidence but others are folk remedies with unknown efficacy. Always consult with a board-certified holistic practitioner before adding CAM therapies to your health regime.
Traditional Cultural Remedies
Allergies and their attending symptoms of sneezing, coughing and congestion have been treated using non-Western medical models for millenia. In Chinese medicine, acupuncture and acupressure are methods that harmonize the body by clearing up energetic blockages, known as meridians. In Native American traditions, as well as Nordic and Mediterranean countries, sweat-lodges, saunas and steam baths are remedies known to soothe allergies through steam and culturally specific practices that involve community and, in some cases, religious ritual.
Steam therapy, without these cultural practices, clearly soothes nasal passages temporarily, and can also be combined with aromatherapy oils such as peppermint or eucalyptus oils.
Homeopathic Remedies
Homeopathic remedies follow the theory that "like cures like," and generally consist of highly diluted and naturally derived remedies. Similar to Chinese medicine, a board-certified homeopathic practitioner takes into account the personality characteristics and emotional well being of the allergy sufferer when prescribing treatment.
In a March 2005 study published by "The Annals of Pharmacotherapy," researchers performed a controlled clinical trial of homeopathy and concluded that homeopathic remedies were more effective than placebo in their test subjects of allergy sufferers from the American Southwest. While not definitive, this study suggests that further medical research is warranted on the efficacy of homeopathic remedies.
Nambudripad Allergy Elimination Technique
Another controversial alternative treatment for allergies is the "Allergy Elimination Technique" (NAET) prescribed by Devi S. Nambudripad, MD. This holistic method combines Eastern and Western practices to treat not only seasonal allergies, but food allergies as well. This treatment option is an alternative medical subculture, and has resulted in thousands of satisfied allergy sufferers, as well as plenty of heated debate in the medical field. However, for those looking for a non-invasive, drug-free allergy treatment plan, NAET practitioners are available internationally.
Relaxation Techniques
While allergic symptoms are usually aimed at removing or reducing irritating stimuli, psychological research suggests that allergies are also tied to stress levels and emotional balance. The Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine, a non-profit organization associated with Harvard University, suggests that relaxation techniques can improve many health ailments, including allergic rhinitis. There are many relaxation techniques to choose from, including meditation, prayer, chi gong, tai chi, yoga, jogging and "even knitting," concludes Dr. Herbert Benson.
