Change of Season… or Seasonal Allergies?
by Cindy Gray on March 24th, 2010
Loading ...Time to Open the Windows to Nature’s Remedies
Isn’t it wonderful to know that springtime is here? Soon it’ll be time to fling open the windows, and spring clean the castle! But as we open to the many joys of the season, we unknowingly invite more than fresh air into our homes—we invite common allergens like mold, dust, pollen, and even environmental pollutants to make their way into our homes. No matter where you live, or what time of year it is, allergies can wreak havoc on your health; and springtime seems to launch this allergic assault without mercy. Once exposed, the body goes into overdrive, releasing histamines or leukotrienes into the body. Symptoms include runny nose, itchy throat, congestion, sneezing, coughing and runny eyes. While many popular antihistamines help to deal with allergies, they often bring unwanted side effects such as drowsiness, depression and dizziness.
Research suggests that about 20% of the U.S. population suffers from some form of allergy. Seasonal allergy symptoms are a natural bodily reaction, resulting from an overreaction by the immune system. The immune system is a highly complex defense mechanism that helps us to fight off infection and illness. In order to defend the body, the immune system has to identify foreign invaders. Once identified, white blood cells step up to the plate to defend and protect the body. But in some people, the immune system seems to get confused, often creating more damage to the body than the invader; making the allergic response itself an illness.
Hay fever is one example of a seasonal allergy, and it is the common term used for seasonal allergic rhinitis, a condition triggered by the pollen in trees, weeds, and grasses, at different times of the year. When you have a reaction, the mucus membranes in your nose and sinuses become inflamed, causing congestion, irritation, sinus pressure and even pain.
Luckily, Mother Nature has her own line of defense to protect the body, stepping up to the challenge with natural remedies, such as herbs and supplements that are good ways to find relief. Not only are natural remedies usually less harsh on the system than conventional drugs, they also do more than just cover up symptoms. In fact, natural remedies offer the following effective and logical ways to deal with this situation:
- Support the body in gently adapting over time to environmental allergens
- Encourage your natural defenses to operate effectively
- Avoid the dreaded ‘rebound’ effect after temporary symptom relief
- Address the real problem, while you maintain normal alertness
- Help the body rest, recover and adapt to seasonal changes
Herbs and supplements offer a gentle, effective approach to allergy relief, with powerful results.
Eyebright tea has been shown to reduce hay fever symptoms. It helps to support healthy mucus and membrane function. It has cooling properties that may help to soothe inflamed membranes.
Nettle, or stinging nettle, is thought to be one of the best herbs for calming allergy symptoms, particularly when paired with eyebright. Nettle reduces inflammation in the sinus cavities. Its powerful antioxidant properties help prevent free radical damage and help to prevent allergy attacks.
Echinacea, astragalus, garlic, chamomile, yarrow and licorice all support the respiratory and immune systems, as well as healthy sinus function. (If you suffer from ragweed, you should avoid taking echinacea, as it’s in the same family as ragweed, and can worsen symptoms.)
Other helpful herbs for allergies include milk thistle, butterbur, dandelion, burdock, ginkgo and horseradish. Remember to always check with your health care provider to make sure there are no conflicts between anything you may be taking for chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
Interestingly, research consistently points to the link between diet and allergies. For those of us who believe in the power of natural, healthy foods, it’s no surprise that a diet deficient in certain essential nutrients and fiber can worsen allergic reactions. Frequent use of antibiotics can also exacerbate allergies. It’s clear that certain nutrients are essential for keeping the immune system strong and healthy, and they play a key role in regulating the allergy response. This just emphasizes the need to eat a healthy low-fat diet, rich in fruits and vegetables; and avoiding sugar and highly processed foods. Increase your fruits and vegetables intake. Fruits and vegetables contain flavonoids or bioflavonoids which give fruits and vegetables their color. Flavonoids may help reduce histamine and leukotriene production.
Research shows that some allergies are actually caused by the release of leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are released due to the presence of arachidonic acid, which is only found in animal products. Diets low in omega-3 essential fatty acids have been linked with increased risk for hay fever. And conversely, higher intakes of omega-3 EPA found in fish oil have been shown to help reduce the risk of hay fever. People who eat a lot of foods high in omega-3 fatty acids like tuna, salmon, and walnuts are known to suffer less from allergies than many people do.
Good old-fashioned honey has been shown to help allergy sufferers, but it must be local honey. Farm markets usually sell locally harvested honey, which is also known to help reduce allergies to pollen. Another time-tested remedy is apple cider vinegar. ACV is known to help boost energy, and balance your entire system, including maintaining healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels, and controlling excess weight.
Probiotics have been shown to offer relief of allergy symptoms. Since allergens are also swallowed, it pays to maintain a healthy ‘gut’ flora with beneficial forms of bacteria. Vitamins C and E are also important for a reduced risk of allergic reactions.
So if you suffer from allergies, it would be wise to take an honest look at what you are eating every day. Keep a food diary for several weeks, writing down everything you eat—every single thing. Review your diary, with a discerning eye. Avoid food products that contain artificial color, especially FD&C Yellow No. 5 dye. Many people are allergic to food additives like MSG; so read labels carefully, and eat as close to nature as possible. You may find that your dietary habits could be part of the problem.
No matter where you live, springtime is on its way. Don’t let allergies keep you stuck in your castle this year! Use the protection of Mother Nature this spring—or any time of year—she’s always ready to help.
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