Seasonal allergies can vary from mild to really annoying but luckily, there are a few behavior modifications you can make which can ease their severity. Read below for 5 ways to beat seasonal allergies naturally.
1. Wash them Away
Pollens adhere to our mucus membranes. Try cleansing your nasal passages with a neti pot, sinus irrigator or nasal oils to rid your body of irritants. A hot shower or steam can also help with clearing up your passages. A shower is great because it physically cleanses your body of all pollutants your body may have come into contact with or allergens you may have brought inside.
2. Try Probiotics
Allergies are the result of an imbalance in the immune system which causes the body to over react to stimuli. Many studies link the presence of beneficial bacteria in the gut with reduced incidence of allergies implying that probiotics can help stimulate production of immune enhancing substances. Lactobacillus GG and L. gasseri are believed to be two of the best probiotics for allergies, along with L. acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis.
3. Change Your Diet
Often, allergies are worsened by toxins within the body. While the liver is a great mediator of inflammation in the body, it can be overworked metabolizing our stress, medications, alcohol, and processed foods we consume.
Detox your body by eliminating fried foods, sugar, and alcohol from your diet. Instead try foods to boost liver function such as milk thistle, turmeric, artichoke, citrus fruits and nuts. You can also try adding vitamin C to your diet, and turmeric and ginger to your food. Turmeric can prevent the release of histamine from mast cells and can even inhibit anaphylactic reactions. Ginger helps to reduce symptoms that come from inflammatory issues. These symptoms can include swelling and irritation in the nasal passages, eyes, and throat naturally. Also try adding apple cider vinegar to your routine (in water, with lemon) — it is reported to boost the immune system, help break up mucus, and support lymphatic drainage.
4. Natural Remedies
Stinging nettle leaf, though causing an allergic reaction of the skin, can combat the reaction from traditional allergies, known often as hay fever when dried and served as a tea. It has anti-inflammatory properties that activate enzymes in the body to reduce negative symptoms caused by allergens. Butterbur extract can be had in the form of tea or tablets. It is used for headaches, fever, and nasal allergies and it has been found to block the chemicals that can cause swelling in the nasal passages. Quercetin, a nutrient found in onions, apples, and black tea, has also shown to block the release of histamines.
5. Manage Your Stress Better
Stress hormones wreak havoc in the body and especially in the immune system, making seasonal allergies even worse. Try exercising more or varying your workout routine, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and practicing self-care.
Other solutions you can try are an air purifier, a humidifier, or acupuncture therapy to treat the underlying imbalances. If you’re unsure of your triggers, schedule an appointment with your doctor for an allergen test so you can tailor your actions accordingly. Remember to also try using Maxim’s organic cotton facial wipes to wipe away any allergies! These are some ideas on how to beat seasonal allergies naturally.
