The drugstore isn’t the only place to turn for allergy help this season. Studies show that natural options can get you back in the sunshine without the side effects.
Seasonal allergies are sensitivities to tree, flower, grass, and other plant pollens, affecting 40 million Americans each year. They leave many in a fog of wheezing, sneezing, runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes; or worse -- feeling imprisoned by mood altering headaches, and congestion, and fatigue. Those who dislike the drowsiness, dry-mouth, and “spacey” feeling of traditional medications have natural alternatives.
• Butterbur. This European herb effectively controls symptoms of hay fever and grass allergy, according to a recent study in the British Medical Journal, and a 2003 study presented at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI). Swiss researchers revealed one tablet of butterbur four times per day had the effectiveness of a popular antihistamine drug, minus the side effects, according to WebMD.
• Acupuncture. This ancient Chinese medical practice stimulates biologically significant points on the body’s surface. It has long been used for preventing and treating disease, injury, or pain by allowing the body to heal naturally and improve function. A study published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine showed that of 26 hay fever patients, acupuncture reduced symptoms in all 26. A study of 72 people showed symptoms eliminated in more that half after 2 treatments, with no side effects.
• Yoga. Yoga postures, pranayama (breath control), relaxation and meditation are powerful tools in stimulating or calming the immune system response, according to Jeff Midgow, M.D. at www.yogasite.com. He explains, “increased allergy symptoms indicate your immune system working overtime. Through relaxation, the nervous system tells the immune system to settle down and stop attacking foreign bodies. When the immune system backs off, inflammation and mucus decrease and symptoms diminish.”
• Hypnotherapy. A Swiss study of 40 patients over 2 years showed interesting results. The researchers found that simply focusing one’s thoughts on an allergen-free environment through self-hypnosis reduced symptoms of hay fever by one-third.
• Diet. Experts say eating and avoiding certain foods can bring relief. Dishes with cayenne pepper, onion, garlic, hot ginger, and fenugreek, can thin mucous secretions and clear nasal passages. If you have ragweed or other weed pollen allergies, Clifford Bassett, MD, told WebMD, “avoid eating melon, banana, cucumber, sunflower seeds, chamomile, and Echinacea,” which exacerbates symptoms.
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