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Don’t Let Allergy Symptoms Spoil Your Spring

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Most people rejoice at the arrival of spring. But for the 22 million Americans who suffer from seasonal allergies the magic of spring is marred by sneezing, stuffy noses, sore throats and watery eyes. An allergy is the result of your immune system’s overreaction to pollens, grass, airborne fungi and even certain foods and cosmetics. When an allergen is introduced the body fights back by producing an excess of inflammatory chemicals, such as histamine, from mast cells. This is what brings on the familiar and annoying allergy symptoms. Because allergies are poorly understood and inadequately treated by conventional medicine, many allergy sufferers turn to Mother Nature for help in preventing and coping with symptoms.

Some of the natural remedies used to treat seasonal allergies include:

Echinacea

This is available in extract, tincture or capsules and works by strengthening the immune system to prevent upper respiratory infections and reduce susceptibility to histamines.

Eucalyptus

Derived from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree, it is used topically to relieve chest congestion and cold discomforts. It is also an ingredient in many over the counter drugs and is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. Eucalyptus should be used with caution because some people are allergic to this plant.

Garlic

Garlic has antibiotic and antiviral properties and is used to treat sinus infections brought on by seasonal allergies. It is available in capsule form, tinctures or fresh. When using raw garlic cloves, garlic breath can be avoided by chopping the cloves into small pieces before swallowing.

Ginger

The medicinal properties of ginger come from the rhizome (similar to the root) of the plant. Ginger alleviates nausea and motion sickness and relives chest congestion associated with colds and allergies. Use 100% ginger only in the form of fresh rhizome, crystallized, extract, ginger syrup or capsules.

Nettle

The leaves and roots of nettle reduce symptoms caused by allergies such as hay fever.

Slippery Elm

Slippery elm is available in the form of lozenges, powder and capsules and it is derived from the inner bark of the elm tree. It is used to alleviate coughs and soothe sore throats that often accompany allergies and colds.

Consider adding supplements to your diet. Look for immune boosting formulas. There are many supplements available that contain some or all of the above mentioned natural remedies. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 19 percent of adults use some form of herbs, botanicals and enzymes to enhance their health and boost their immunity. Vitamin C and zinc are especially helpful in strengthening the immune system.

It is important for allergy sufferers to maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes a nutritious diet, exercise and plenty of rest in order to keep their immune systems strong. A weak immune system is more taxed by the stresses of everyday life, and will compromise your body’s ability to fend off the allergens that cause your symptoms.