Combating Allergies Naturally

Many of us may have experienced some form of allergy at one point in our lives or may be suffering from one for the longest time; some from dust, heat, smoke, animal dander, pollen, crustaceans, nuts or alcohol. Though it’s easy to just buy antihistamines or nasal spray from drug stores, it’s always best to know some natural remedies to counter allergies, which do not have side effects like drowsiness or nausea.  

According to research, some of the natural remedies for allergies are:

Saline Solution. Saline solution (salt water) can help wash away irritants that get lodged in the nasal passages. You can make your own salt solution by mixing a teaspoon of salt in a pint of warm distilled water and adding a pinch of baking soda.

Peppermint Tea. Peppermint oil acts as a decongestant; and substances in peppermint contain anti-inflammatory and mild antibacterial constituents.

Butterbur.  Butterbur extract is gotten from the root of butterbur shrub.  The herb works as a leukotriene inhibitor, which blocks some chemicals that trigger swelling in the nasal passages. Butterbur extract is safe. But it is not safe to use pure butterbur extract, since the plant contains carcinogenic substances. Make sure you only use butterbur that has had the cancer-causing ingredients removed (UPA-free).

Bromelain. Bromelain is an enzyme that can be found in pineapples. It acts as anti-inflammatory agent especially in the sinuses and nose.

Quercetin. Quercetin is a flavonoid and works as a mast cell stabilizer. It helps block the release of histamine that causes inflammation. Quercetin can be found in many fruits and vegetables such as capers, red onions, dill, watercress, buckwheat, kale, cranberry, plums, sweet potatoes, red apples, and broccoli, among others.

Spicy Foods. Some food items like chili peppers, wasabi, dijon mustard, fresh garlic have allyl isothiocyanate, which promotes mucus flow and alleviates allergies.

Steam. Taking a nice warm shower or breathing steam soothes irritated sinuses and helps rid the nasal passages of mucus. Boil several cups of water and pour into a big bowl. Lean carefully over the bowl, and drape a towel over your head. Breathe gently for 5 to 10 minutes.

De-humidifier. A dehumidifier can help prevent mold, an allergen, from forming, since humid environment is a perfect breeding ground for dust mites and mold. You may also want to use HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters, which can trap some of the allergens in your home.

In addition to these, prevention is of course the best medicine, like washing your pets regularly, using wooden flooring instead of carpets, changing your bed sheets regularly, and of course avoiding potential allergens.