Natural Remedies for Allergies

In a continuing effort to provide natural ways to treat, reduce and avoid the increasing prevalence of allergies, we’ve provided a brief list of initial precautions below:

1. Limit allergen exposure. An allergy is a heightened sensitivity to an allergen, which can range from pollen to animal fur to certain foods. Although simple, the first step in reducing allergy symptoms is to reduce your exposure to allergens. If you are extra-sensitive to pet dander or pollen, precautions include changing clothes or bathing after exposure to a pet or spending a prolonged amount of time outdoors during spring season.

2. Neti pot or saline spray. Neti pots containing a sterile saline solution that can flush out allergens in the nasal passage thereby relieving congestion, pressure, and face pain. Additionally, saline sprays are also commonly used to flush out allergens. These methods of nasal irrigation are popular among individuals who have undergone sinus surgery.

3. Foods with high carotenoid and vitamin C content. Vitamin C acts as a gentle antihistamine that, in addition to boosting your immune system and protecting against viral infections, can help soothe allergy symptoms. Kale, broccoli, and citrus fruit contain 60mg to 100mg per serving, while the recommended daily intake of vitamin C is 500mg. On the other hand, kale and collard greens also contain high levels of carotenoids—an organic pigment that helps ease allergy symptoms.

4. Quercetin. A flavonoid found in fruits, vegetables, and grains, quercetin is an anti-inflammatory antioxidant that prevents mast cells from releasing histamine. Much like their high vitamin C content, broccoli and citrus fruit contain quercetin, which can alleviate allergy symptoms. Although it is difficult to consume the amount of quercetin needed to alleviate allergies through food alone, quercetin supplements are available to ease allergy symptoms.

Now, go enjoy the season—safely and allergy free.

Sources:
http://www.rodalenews.com/allergy-relief
http://wellnessmama.com/8370/7-natural-remedies-for-allergy-relief/
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/04/18/spring-allergies_n_5153049.html

The information supplied in this article is not to be considered as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.