Allergies: Nip Them in the Bud

April showers bring May flowers, and what do May flowers bring?  Welcome back your allergies people!  It's that time of year: the itching, sneezing, coughing season.  If you suffer from all the horrible symptoms brought on by spring time, you might as well do everything you can to prevent and subdue them, right?  I've done some searching to find some of the best remedies for seasonal allergies that are safe, effective, and natural.  Here's what I found:  

• Nettle (urtica dioica) - an herbal anti-histamine that reduces sneezing and itching.  The most common way to use nettle is as a leaf tea.  Try 2-3 cups daily of Alvita Nettle Leaf Tea Bags.
• Eucalyptus - helps with nasal decongestion.  Try muddling eucalyptus leaves with peppermint oil, wintergreen, or cloves.  Boil them together and waft in the steam to inhale the aroma or use a steamer (be careful with placing your face over hot steam).  Also consider eucalyptus supplements.
• Quercetin - a natural antihistamine that relieves swollen and stuffy symptoms.  You can eat certain foods to get your fix - apples, berries, citrus fruits, onions, parsley, and - red wine (in moderation)!  
• Omega - 3's - an anti-inflammatory aid.  Load up on omega-3 rich foods like flaxseed (add to oatmeal, cereal, etc.), edamame, walnuts, and salmon.
• Spice - to thin mucous secretions and help clear congestion.  Spice up your food with wasabi, cayenne pepper, chili pepper, spicy mustard, or horseradish.
• AVOID dairy products, processed foods, refined sugars, and refined flours.  These tend to trigger mucous production and other symptoms.  If you notice increased symptoms after eating a certain food, remove that food from your diet for a couple of days to see if the symptoms alleviate.
• An Allergy-Free Home: Throw clothes worn outside in the wash immediately to remove traces of pollen and other allergens.  Keep shoes at the door to avoid tracking triggers throughout the house.  Keep up with vacuuming and immediately empty/discard the vacuum bag.

Note: Nettle, eucalyptus, quercetin, and omega-3's are all available in supplements and may be beneficial in this form as well.


Put Your Records On - Corinne Bailey Rae