A surge in allergy problems happens both in the spring and the fall with the many airborne substances that can act as allergens. Whether you blame it on the ragweed, goldenrod, or just unknowns spores and molds in the air, it can be miserable for sufferers of allergy symptoms. Common symptoms include watery eyes, red itchy eyes, runny nose, clogged nose, wheezing, sneezing, sinus headache, foggy head, fatigue, breathing issues, joint pain, stress, and/or anxiety. The bottom line is any of these indicators can make you feel awful.
Here are some tips you can use to avoid or improve seasonal allergies.
1. Use natural antihistamine herbs.
Typically these herbs contain natural quercetin that the body uses to modulate the allergens. Try Nettle, Chickweed, Wild Cherry, Elderflower, Linden Flower, or Peppermint. All of these herbs work to normalize the histamines that your body releases in response to the allergens. Teas and tinctures are ideal ways to consume these herbs.
2. If your symptoms include leaky, drippy, and runny nose and eyes, you may need astringent herbs.
Among the best herbs in this category are Raspberry, White Oak, Sumac, Peach Leaf, Nettle, and believe it or not Goldenrod and Ragweed! You may be shocked to hear that Goldenrod and Ragweed actually are herbal remedies for seasonal allergies or hay fever, but they work wonders.
3. For clogged or stuck mucus, use herbs that act as expectorants.
Some really good examples of expectorant herbs would be Fenugreek, Creeping Charlie, Elecampane, Ginger, Cayenne, Horseradish, and Garlic.
4. If you have dry, itchy, and scratchy symptoms, consider herbs that are mucilaginous.
Herbs in this category include Marshmallow Root, Slippery Elm, Licorice, and Fenugreek.
5. Since allergies are ultimately an autoimmune condition, you will need to balance your immune system.
Here are some herbs that will help nourish and restore your immunity. Elderberry, Astragalus, Reshi, Boneset, Turmeric Root, and Propolis. Teas or tinctures can be really beneficial methods of consuming the herbs.
A very helpful way to combat seasonal allergies is to take a nutritional supplement with a good quality fish oil, so you can keep inflammation in your body at bay. In addition, an excellent supplement that provides natural support to help balance immune response during allergy season is HistaEze. Another wonderful product is a Homeopathic remedy called Aller-Chord A from Energetix.
To help select which herb works best for you, a consultation with your health professional can be very beneficial. Additionally, there are a number of supplements, nutritional and other strategies that can be used to minimize seasonal allergies. To set up an appointment with Connie, please call 320-587-6094.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.