Upper respiratory allergies affect roughly one in five individuals, according to experts at the Mayo Clinic. Allergy sufferers may turn to holistic medicine techniques as a safer alternative to pharmaceutical interventions. Mayo Clinic notes that many holistic allergy treatments lack convincing scientific evidence; nevertheless, early studies support the use of some techniques for reducing symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Holistic treatments for allergies are generally considered to be safe. Nevertheless, anyone interested in using these techniques should consult a qualified health care provider.
Quercetin and Vitamin C
Quercetin and Vitamin C, two water-soluble antioxidants, help to reduce histamine response. Renowned naturopath Dr. Andrew Weil notes that these compounds are highly effective for relieving sneezing and nasal irritation in people with seasonal allergies.
Stinging Nettle
Citing early clinical trials, naturopathic physician Ray Sahelian recommends stinging nettle supplements for treating the symptoms of allergies. Stinging nettle is nontoxic and associated with few or no side effects. Additionally, it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that ease pain and tenderness in the sinuses.
Nasal Douching
Saline rinses can remove mucus buildup, soothe irritated membranes and eliminate pollen from the nasal passages. Nasal douches can performed using netti pots or spray bottles. Unlike many other allergy treatments, nasal rinsing is associated with no side effects or drug interactions.
Butterbur
According to Dr. Ray Sahelian, early clinical trials have found that the shrub butterbur contains antihistamine compounds that rival prescription drugs. Unprocessed butterbur contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, toxic compounds that can cause serious injury to the liver. Seek a butterbur formula that has been processed to remove all pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
Bromelain
Only limited evidence supports the use of bromelain--an enzyme derived from pineapple--for the treatment of seasonal allergies. However, the U.S. National Institutes of Health note that fairly strong scientific evidence supports bromelain as a treatment for sinus inflammation, a common, painful complication associated with seasonal allergies.
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