Allergies – Natural Means of Relief

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Allergies – Natural Means of Relief

A Health Tip Brought to You by Bastyr University

Source: alternativemedicine.com

Allergies can seem like the " gift that keeps on giving. "

Unfortunately a runny nose, itchy eyes, or sinus pressure isn't our

idea of a perfect gift. While many of us throw up our hands in

frustration and succumb to the nearest pharmaceutical solution, it's

good to remember that we can use natural remedies instead of, or in

addition to standard allergy treatment. Ideally, of course, you need

to address the root of the problem so you don't remain dependent on

pharmaceutical or even natural remedies indefinitely.

Natural remedies that help

Most allergy problems stem from a hyper-reactive immune system and

excessive inflammation. Here are a few ways to balance the immune

system and relieve or even eliminate your symptoms:

Consume more essential fatty acids, which can be found in fish oil

supplements.

Increase your intake of vitamin C, vitamin E, and bioflavonoids such

as quercetin.

Take herbs such as nettle or pine bark extracts.

Avoid dust mites in bedding and carpets, especially for children

with allergies.

Eliminate food allergens from your diet.

Undergo liver detoxification.

Adopt some stress-management techniques.

Receive spinal adjustments and/or acupuncture treatments.

Home Allergy Treatment – The Neti Pot

Another convenient and inexpensive home remedy many allergy

sufferers swear by is a Neti Pot, a ceramic pot with a long spout

that you fill with a saltwater solution and use to irrigate the

sinuses. Using a Neti Pot helps clear the nasal passageways of

allergens. The salt in the water reduces inflammation, which keeps

allergy symptoms at bay and decreases the likelihood of a sinus

infection. As you can see, there are many, many natural options to

find relief, both short- and long-term. A multi-faceted approach

often gets the best results, and by visiting a naturopathic

physician you can determine the best strategies to relieve your

particular type of allergies.