Taking over-the-counter allergy medication is one way to cope with the
symptoms of allergies this spring. But many people find the side effects
difficult to deal with – drowsiness, or on the other hand, hyper-wakefulness
– and many cannot work properly while taking antihistamines. If
you suffer from allergies why not give a natural remedy a try? Here’s
how natural remedies may make a difference to your health and wellbeing.
What Causes Allergies?
You suffer from allergies when your immune system reacts against a threat
– in the case of seasonal allergies this threat is pollen, or grass
seed. The immune system response provokes symptoms like a runny nose,
congestion, watery eyes, sneezing, headaches, and difficulty breathing.
When you take an anti-allergy medication you are blocking the release
of chemicals that cause this reaction. Natural remedies work in the same
way to reduce the level of histamines and lessen the severity of allergy symptoms.
What Are Some Herbal Remedies for Allergies?
One of the most widely tested herbs for treating allergies is butterbur.
Butterbur has been shown, in several studies, to be as effective as a
traditional antihistamine but without the side effects. Take butterbur
in tablet form and see if it helps your allergy symptoms. Or try stinging
nettle – a supplement made up of extract of stinging nettle leaf
is a natural antihistamine that contains quercetin, vitamin K, and carotene.
Bromelain reduces inflammation and can ease congestion by thinning the
mucus in the nose.
Any Other Natural Remedies?
A good option is quercetin. Quercetin is a flavonoid that is found in wine
and certain fruits and vegetables. Quercetin blocks histamine release
and suppresses the allergic response that causes your symptoms. You could
also try the following herbs and supplements that are said to reduce allergy
symptoms: Echinacea, goldenseal, pine bark extract, vitamin C, honey,
and cat’s claw.
Are Herbal Remedies Safe?
One of the reasons people take natural remedies is to avoid the side effects
associated with drugs. Most herbal remedies are free from side effects
but they may cause interactions with other medications – check with
your doctor if you are unsure. If you are pregnant or breast feeding,
consult your doctor before taking any medications – natural or otherwise
– for your allergies. You may need to try a few different remedies
to find one that works for you.
Call Decatur Pain & Rehab to learn more about our chiropractic and medical pain relief services.