Seasonal allergies can be brutal. Hay fever, itchy/watery eyes, sneezing, running nose, sinus inflammation, puffy eyes, and congestion are not symptoms that can go untreated. When you experience environmental allergies, they can be caused by the immune system’s overreaction to substances such as pollen or animal dander.
Suppressing Seasonal Allergies with Natural Alternatives
While medications can provide some relief, there can also come with side effects like dry mouth, feeling tired or wired, and may even affect digestion. The following suggestions are natural alternatives found in foods and herbal supplements. They can help to improve your immune system and be safer in the long run if allergies are a recurring problem.
1. Butterbur
Butterbur is a plant that is used for several medicinal purposes, including migraines. Yet it has also been noted as a successful remedy for allergies. When your body comes into contact with an allergen, it releases the inflammatory chemical called leukotriene which signals an allergic response. In studies, butterbur seems to suppress leukotriene and ease allergy symptoms.
2. Bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme that is helpful in reducing nasal swelling and thinning mucus, making it easier for people to breathe better. Two well known sources of bromelain (aside from supplements) are papaya and pineapple. It can temper an overactive immune system and it may be particularly useful for sinus infections as well.
3. Quercitin
Quercitin has many benefits and is an antioxidant found in several fruits and vegetables as well as wine. It helps to block inflammation and the release of histamine (a key contributor to allergies). Histamines are the chemicals that are produced when the immune system detects an allergen or sensitivity. In essence, quercitin can work as nature’s “Anti-histamine” rather than taking an over the counter medication.
4. Stinging Nettle
Stinging Nettle is a plant that can also reduce the production of histamine and inflammation that is triggered by an allergen from seasonal allergies. Its uses have been recognized among herbalists for decades. Nettle can be a remedy for helping itchy eyes, sneezing and a runny nose.
5. Diet
Diets shouldn’t be overlooked when you want to manage allergy symptoms. If you are accustomed to just taking medication or supplements you may want to consider what you’re eating. An anti-inflammatory diet can be very helpful, especially one high in Omega 3 fatty acids. Salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel and trout are all high in EPA and DHA. Just be careful to choose fish that’s wild rather than farmed due to the high mercury content. You may also want to eliminate foods that can trigger allergy symptoms such as common culprits like wheat, gluten and dairy.