With Spring just around the corner, for many hay fever (allergic rhinitis) will rear it’s ugly & often snotty head...
Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms include; Runny nose Postnasal drip. Repetitive sneezing. Watery, inflamed, red eyes Itchy eyes, nose, ears, and throat Nasal congestion Headache Blocked sinuses
Natural Treatments
Vitamin C can act as a preventative and be used symptomatically. Vitamin C can help to stabilize mast cells which inhibits the release of histamine therefore acting as a mild antihistamine.
Quercetin is bioflavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables. There is a large amount of research showing the benefits of quercetin for allergies, especially hay fever. It works by inhibiting enzymes that cause inflammation and prevents mast cells and basophils from releasing histamine. Raw garlic and onion contain high levels of quercetin.
Garlic and Horseradish work really well to ease congestion and boost the immune system.
Vitamin D is important for all immune-related conditions. Vitamin D deficiency is significantly higher in patients with allergic rhinitis. Vitamin D levels directly correlate with severity of hay fever that patient’s experience. All studies to date show that there is a highly significant reduction in nasal symptoms after supplementation with vitamin D.
Probiotics- different strains of probiotics have a different role and effect on the immune system. Without a healthy balance of good bacteria in the gut, ( 80-90% of immune cells are found in the gut), immunity is likely to be compromised, leaving individuals more susceptible to developing allergies. One of the most researched strains in Lactobacillus Rhamnosus (LGG) for the treatment of allergies.
Zinc is important for immune balance, and is often deficient due to poor absorption as we age. Zinc is best taken with foods.
Astragalus & Echinacea are herbs that are very important for immunity. Astragalus is a useful preventative, whilst Echinacea is beneficial as an acute treatment when hay fever strikes.
Diet
Increase flavonoid-rich foods into the diet. Colourful berries and vegetables, rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, should be eaten daily.
Eliminate food allergens and irritants. Food allergies or intolerance can exacerbate sinus allergies. The most common culprits are gluten and dairy, but corn and soy can also be a problem.
Omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory markers. Good choices include: organic grass-fed meat and eggs, and cold-water fish such as wild salmon, trout, sardines and anchovies.
Dairy products can increase the production of mucus in the respiratory tract and exacerbate hay fever nasal congestion. Try alternatives such as rice, almond, quinoa and coconut milks.
Increasing garlic and onion in the diet is a safe and easy way to relieve and prevent allergies