Natural Allergy Cures

 

Can natural remedies be more effective See which ones work for you

Many of us suffer from allergies, which are caused by our body's overreaction to otherwise harmless substances. Allergies are usually treated with medication or nasal sprays, but such medications can often have side effects. Can natural remedies be more effective? Many doctors believe that pharmaceuticals are still critical in the treatment of allergies, but that natural remedies can be used as a supplement. And, depending on the type of allergy and other conditions, natural cures can often be relied upon exclusively, doing away with the need for medications.

What, specifically, causes allergies? Our bodies have effective immune systems that serve to block foreign substances from causing infections and other ailments. One way our immune systems work is to create antibodies, which are proteins that target foreign substances. There are many varieties of these antibodies, or "immunoglobulins," and they attack foreign bodies by directly attaching themselves to the foreign body's surface.

A person who suffers from allergies, however, produces excessive quantities of a particular kind of antibody, "IgE" (immunoglobulin E), which tends to overreact to foreign invasions. The IgE antibodies are associated with "mast cells," specific cells of the immune system that are found in the nasal passage, eyelids, and other exposed areas. When IgE antibodies come into contact with, for instance, cat dander, the mast cell then releases chemicals such as histamine and leukotriene. It is these chemicals that cause inflammation and other allergic reactions.

Doctors prescribe antihistamines for relief of allergic symptoms, but a natural allergy treatment program can often be just as effective, and there are a number of nutrients and herbs that can help. Butterbur, a shrub-like plant that has long been the source of various folk remedies, is often cited as one of the most effective natural remedies for allergies and hay fever. Butterbur extract can inhibit leukotriene, a chemical that causes swelling in the nasal passages. Some studies have shown that butterbur can be just as effective as common prescription drugs such as Allegra, with the added advantage of not causing drowsiness. Butterbur should not be taken in unprocessed form; it is commonly available as an extract, in tablet form. However, there may be side effects such as indigestion, nausea, diarrhea, and constipation; and pregnant women, and people with kidney or liver conditions, should consult with a doctor before taking butterbur.

Quercetin is an antioxidant that is commonly found in fruits (the skin of apples, berries, and grapes), as well as red onions and black tea. Research suggests that quercetin is effective as an antihistamine, and it is available in supplement form. It can be thought of as an herbal substitute for nasal sprays such as NasalCrom.

Stinging nettle is commonly used as a natural allergy treatment; look for extracts of the leaf, not the root. Many people find that taking stinging nettle, which includes carotene, vitamin K, and quercetin, at the first signs of an allergic reaction, can help bring relief. Stinging nettle leaf can also be taken as tea; be sure to let the teabag steep in a covered cup for 15 minutes to allow the oils to seep into the water before drinking.

A saline nasal spray is an easy remedy that brings quick relief. A simple saltwater solution helps to wash away allergens and other irritants. Simply fill a squeeze bottle with a premixed packet of saline solution (from your drugstore), or, to make your own solution, mix one quart of distilled water (or boiled, then cooled water) with 2 or 3 teaspoons of non-iodized salt (commonly, kosher salt or sea salt) plus 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Using 8-ounce portions, tilt your head over a sink and squeeze the saline solution into one nostril; it will drain out the other nostril.

Steam inhalation can be an easy remedy for nasal congestion. Heat a saucepan of water over your stove, bringing the water to a boil; then take the saucepan off the stove and add several drops of essential oils, which you can purchase at a health-food store. Essential oils from eucalyptus, rosemary, or tea trees are often used for this purpose. Then make a "tent" over the saucepan by covering your head with a bath towel and leaning over the saucepan, close so that you feel heat but don't get burned, and inhale for 5-10 minutes.

Homeopathic treatments, too, can help relieve allergic symptoms. This technique uses diluted solutions of herb and flower essences, taken in tablet form. "Euphrasia" is known to alleviate burning or irritated eyes, while "Allium cepa" helps relieve congested nostrils. It's best to try one at a time, rather than both at once.

Improving the environment in your home can also help relieve allergies. Cool-mist humidifiers can help clear the air in your home of allergens; the water droplets that are emitted by humidifiers bind to allergens that float freely throughout your living spaces, causing them to become heavy, so they fall to the floor rather than enter your nasal passages. Air purifiers can also remove pollens and spores from the air, and can be helpful in your bedroom, when you are sleeping.

Allergies, particularly when severe, can be debilitating, but there are a wealth of natural allergy remedies that can supplement, and often replace, pharmaceutical solutions. See which ones work for you.

No related posts.