An allergic reaction happens when your immune system believes that it is being compromised. This occurs when a foreign substance (like pollen or dander) enters the body. In response to this “threat,” your immune system creates antibodies to fight off the attacker, which results in inflammation. The result? Swollen sinuses, headaches, skin reactions and all those other irritating symptoms.
With a few lifestyle adjustments, homeopathic remedies and plant-based supplements, dealing with allergies is possible without a prescription:
1. Keep Your Home Clean
Try to keep your home clean, especially the bedroom. Avoid synthetic bedding and sleepwear, which create electromagnetic static, attracting particulate matter that will inevitably drift up your nose or down your throat. A high-quality air filtration system—especially in the bedroom—is also a good investment. I love my Air Doctor, which can be ordered online. Also consider a HEPA filter for your vacuum cleaner, forced-air heating or air conditioning system. It’s especially helpful for your vacuum, since vacuuming can kick up and redistribute allergenic particles.
2. Diet
Top dietary offenders that can produce allergy-like symptoms are wheat and dairy. If you cut out gluten and milk products from your diet, you might find that congestion, rashes and “brain fog” dissipate.
3. Cures From Nature
- Butterbur: One of nature’s best allergy remedies, butterbur has the ability to promote respiratory health by reducing swelling in the nasal passages. And unlike most over-the-counter products, it won’t cause the dreaded drowsiness or restlessness that interrupts your sleep cycle or daily routine.
- Quercetin: When used as a preventative remedy, quercetin has a histamine-blocking effect that shows promising results for most allergy sufferers. Quercetin can be found in many fruits and vegetables, but taking it in supplement form will offer the most effective results.
- Bromelain: A mixture of enzymes found in pineapple fruit and stems, bromelain has been shown to reduce nasal swelling and thin mucus. The effectiveness of quercetin appears to be boosted by bromelain, too; the two are often found together in supplements, such as Natural D-Hist by Ortho Molecular Products (call our office to order).
