While we should be enjoying the beauty of spring, many people suffer from seasonal allergies. From the birds to the pollen, there are many things that may cause suffering from the classic symptoms of an allergic reaction.
In fact, research shows that approximately 35 million Americans are dealing with seasonal allergies, as well as hay fever. And, as the sneezing, scratchy throat and watery eyes become increasingly unbearable; many people will reach for pharmaceutical drugs to help lessen these symptoms. While these drugs may provide temporary allergy relief, drugs almost always come with undesired side effects.
Below, are ten natural methods for reducing the symptoms of allergies, as well as preventing them from happening in the first place.
As far as prevention is concerned, diet is a huge way you can influence your experience of seasonal allergies. Studies show that essential fatty acids coming from organic flax seed or hemp seed oil can help reduce seasonal allergies. Try avoiding mucus and congestion-causing foods such as dairy products, milk, processed wheat and sugar.
In general, a healthy diet will boost your overall immunity to allergies. In fact, a scientific study done on the island of Crete found that nasal allergies were almost non-existent in this region. Why? They suspected it was because the islanders' food intake was composed mainly of cold-pressed olive oil, nuts, fish, fruits and veggies. This antioxidant diet was super high in grapes, tomatoes, oranges, nuts and apples, all foods known to support upper respiratory tract health.
One of the best things you can do for allergies is to purchase a high-quality, allergy-free cover for your mattress, box springs and pillows. Also, wash your bedding once a week in very hot water to prevent build-up and help kill off dust mites.
Chemicals and fumes from most store-bought cleaning products have been shown to trigger allergic reactions, especially in the spring when our allergic response is already heightened. Instead, opt for organic cleaning products. They are a safe alternative to more traditional cleansers that contain many chemicals that can be toxic to your health. There's no point in spraying these chemicals in your house.
It would be wise to wear a mask when you are doing spring-time yard work or gardening, especially when you are mowing the lawn. Remember, pollen counts are greatest from 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., so its best to do yard work or gardening after this time or in the evening.
Eliminate allergy-causing pollen and mites from the air by investing in an air purification system that has UV & negative ion filter. Carpet harbors pet dander, dust and pollen from the outdoors, which can exacerbate allergy symptoms.
If possible, replace carpet with non-toxic wool, non-toxic hardwood or cork flooring. Also, get rid of the clutter which collects allergens! A clean living environment is a GREEN living environment.
Although technically not a cure or treatment for allergies, many people do report that the oil of oregano helps them feel better when they’re dealing with the typical symptoms of allergies. Taking this supplement will also reduce the amounts of histamines found in the blood (this is the chemical that causes swelling and allergic reaction).
Mold is a huge cause of seasonal allergies. As the rains come down and the heat increases, mold begins to form in the unseen corners of our homes and offices. While there are many ways to get rid of mold, purchasing a high-quality dehumidifier will help prevent mold from forming and lessen those disagreeable symptoms.
Remove and wash clothes that you have worn outside when coming back into your home. This will help prevent outdoor pollen from establishing itself in your furniture and bedding. Also, taking a shower before bed will keep pollen from your hair out of your pillow at night.
Eating probiotic-rich foods, such as fermented saurkraut, kimchee, or kombucha, are great ways to enhance the gut microbiota. The gut microbiota consists of all the microbes that your body has a symbiotic relationship with. You can also boost your microbiome with a high-quality probiotic supplement, such as Global Healing's Global Healing's Ultimate Probiotic.
Research suggests that pollen levels are lower around open bodies of water. If you are prone to allergies during springtime, take time to visit a lake or the beach instead of the country-side. You can also put some salt lamps in your office and home which help reduce allergy symptoms.
With these easy tips, you can assure that your spring season will be allergy-free!
Introduction In recent decades, more and more of us have realized the value of adopting…
Introduction Each and every day, your body is exposed to toxic heavy metals. These metals…
Introduction It’s no secret that your body needs calcium. After all, without enough calcium, you…
Introduction If you haven’t put the incredible health benefits of boron to work for you,…
Introduction While most of us know the benefits of taking supplements like Vitamin D3 or…
Introduction Have you heard about activated charcoal but aren’t really sure what it and how…