To successfully combat symptoms like sneezing from seasonal
allergies it is important to know what triggers the reaction. You do not
have to know specifics, but understanding the processes will help you
form a plan of action in your battle with seasonal allergies. Before we
get to the 7 tips, let's briefly explore what happens.
An allergic
reaction is when your body's immune system reacts to what it believes
to be a harmful substance. The body releases histamines to subdue what
it sees as an invader. This harmful substance is usually something
common such as pollen, grass, weeds etc. Different people will suffer
from seasonal allergies at different times, depending on what their
bodies interpret as foreign. Some may suffer from spring allergies,
seeking relief from the sneezing that accompanies this seasonal allergy,
when it seems everything is in bloom. Others, who feel congested or
have water eyes, may only suffer when certain plant pollens are in the
air, such as the red cedar bloom in Texas. There are folks who suffer
seasonal allergies all year through, going from one allergic reaction to
the next.
As each allergic sufferer has different substances that
trigger reactions, each may suffer in a different way. In addition to
sneezing and watery eyes already mentioned, a stuffy nose and sinus
headache may be added to the symptoms. It is the immune system's way to
rid the body of the substance it sees as hostile.
The drug
companies have turned season allergies into big business. There are
plenty of over the counter medications available as well as prescription
drugs you can get from your primary health care provider. The good news
is there are steps you can take to relieve your seasonal allergies
naturally. Of course consult your primary health care provider if your
symptoms are severe and be sure to tell them of any steps you are taking
to help find relief.
Let's look at some natural alternatives.
1-
First evaluate your diet. The way to a healthy immune system is
initially through proper nutrition. Ensure you have a varied diet full
of nutrient rich fruits, vegetables and whole grains. This will help all
of your body system function to their optimum and allow you to better
combat seasonal allergies.
2- If you are looking for something to
sweeten your tea, there may also be a form of relief in sight for your
allergies as well. Honey as a seasonal allergy relief option has worked
for people, although you must use a local honey. Honey has pollen in it.
If you use a honey which is local to your area, it contains the pollens
which are making you stuffed up and wheezy. The theory behind using
honey is much like an allergy shot your doctor gives you. Taking a
teaspoon or two a day of local honey a few months before allergy season
will help your body desensitize and boost your immune system.
3-
Certain vitamins can aid in allergy relief. Vitamin C has been shown in
studies to help alleviate seasonal allergy reactions. It is a natural
antihistamine. Vitamin E is an antioxidant. This means it can fight free
radicals causing allergies. It can also help the immune system. Citrus
fruit and broccoli are good sources of Vitamin C. Vitamin E can be found
in whole grains and food such as spinach. If you can't get enough to
create the measurable results that you need for seasonal allergy relief,
there are pharmaceutical grade natural supplements that produce the
best results.
4- Magnesium is a mineral that can be helpful in
allergy relief. Studies have shown many people seeking season allergy
relief are deficient in magnesium. Once the level is raised the sufferer
notices less symptoms. Magnesium is located in green leafy vegetables
as well as nuts. If you do not have these in your diet consider
pharmaceutical grade supplements.
5- There are a natural immune
builders that many people use successfully to not only manage allergy
symptoms but to improve immune function that help the underlying causes.
Natural interferon immune builders can build immunity and for some
people help fight the condition itself. Echinacea is an herb that
stimulates the body's natural resistance to foreign invaders, giving the
immune system what it needs to stay strong. It is taken for short
periods, such as a week at a time, to supercharge the immune system.
Other herbs that can be found in combination with echinacea are black
elderberry and larch tree; both help the body maintain a healthy immune
response.
6- Fish oil has also been known to help alleviate season
allergy symptoms because it is an anti-inflammatory. Allergic rhinitis
actually means inflammation of the nose. When you can alleviate the
inflammation, it helps with the pain and discomfort many people suffer.
7-
Probiotics are healthy bacteria that work in our intestines to
strengthen our immune system. Probiotics are especially helpful after a
course of antibiotics or if your immune system is run down. The use of
probiotics has increased significantly in the past five to ten years,
and is one of the fastest growing supplements.
Taking a few simple
steps to seek natural relief for the sneezing from seasonal allergies,
and a host of other symptoms, may help those who suffer find measurable
relief during allergy season, and all year long since we are constantly
exposed to allergic irritants like free radicals, illnesses, disease,
and pollution of different kinds including toxins and chemicals. -By
Vicki Zerbee
