Now that the long, dark days of winter have passed and the first few indications of spring have sprung, it's time for many people to start thinking about allergy season. There are a number of effective ways to prevent and ease allergy symptoms using natural therapies. Many have been in use for centuries and now we have the scientific validation of their efficacy as well.
Prevention
It's always advantageous to prevent illness rather that try to treat it after it has taken hold. Here are a couple of ways to prevent allergies from starting in the first place.
Breastfeeding - research shows that infants who were breastfed have a much lower risk of developing allergies that those who were not.
Nasal irrigation - Many people find nasal irrigation to be very effective for preventing allergy symptoms. This study offers some scientific research to back this up.
Nutrition
Probiotics - A mixture of probiotics was found to significantly reduce symptoms of allergies in children in this study. Subsequent studies confirmed these results.
Raw milk - Studies suggest that raw milk has a protective effect against hayfever and asthma.
Vitamin D - Research shows that Vitamin D deficiency is greater among children with allergies and asthma. This study suggests that prenatal and early infancy vitamin D supplementation can influence the incidence of allergies and asthma.
Bee Pollen - Commonly used in folk medicine to prevent or reduce allergies, studies now confirm the anti-allergic action of bee pollen.
Herbs
Nettles are very effective at reducing or even eliminating pollen allergies. A study using freeze dried nettle capsules found that 58% of the participants experienced significant improvements. Additional studies have shown the mechanism with which nettle inhibits the allergic response.
Elderberry contains anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant agents, which can benefit a large range of conditions from allergic reactions to atherosclerosis.
Rose - Roses have been used successfully for various ailments throughout history. The anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy properties of rose have been established scientifically through several studies.
Burdock - Burdock has been traditionally used to treat allergic diseases, especially atopic dermatitis. Studies have born out this centuries old remedy.
Ginger - The anti-inflammatory benefits of ginger are well known. However, many people do not realize that ginger is also has anti-allergy properties as well.
Turmeric - The anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties of turmeric have been well established in the scientific literature. From improving nasal airflow to inhibiting itching and anaphylaxis, turmeric is an impressive ally for those with allergic diseases.
Goldenrod - This herb has been used effectively for acute allergy symptoms. Studies show it has significant anti-inflammatory properties.
Homeopathics
Homeopathic remedies have been commonly used to prevent and treat allergy symptoms for the last two centuries. Individualized treatment is always the most effective when you are using homeopathy, but specific remedies have shown scientific promise as well. Appropriate remedies are chosen according to the exact symptoms one is experiencing.
Betula - A study done using Betula 30C showed statistically significant improvement in allergy symptoms.
Lycopodium - Lycopodium is great for those who wake up to crusty eyes with itchiness in the inside corners, along with a severely congested nose and post-nasal drip.
Pulsatilla - Pulsatilla is a good choice for people with inflamed, itchy, burning eyes, frequent sneezing, who are thirstless and feel better out of doors.
Allium Cepa - A significant remedy for those who experience watery, bland discharge from the eyes that are light sensitive, but burning watery nasal discharge which is better in the open air.
Euphrasia - Opposite of Allium, Euphrasia symptoms are profuse, burning watery eyes, but bland nasal discharge that is worse out of doors.
Sabadilla - A great remedy to consider for springtime allergies, Sabadilla is well suited to those who suffer spasmodic sneezing attacks with a profusely runny nose and tickling inside the nose. I have found that this remedy is the best one for me personally.
Aromatherapy
Essential oils can be helpful in reducing the symptoms of allergies. These oils can be especially effective.
Lavender - Gentle and relaxing, Lavender essential oils packs a punch with its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties.
Frankincense - Helpful for spasmodic coughing and opening up airways, Frankincense has been shown to be anti-inflammatory as well.
German Chamomile - This essential oil contains the constituent, chamazulene, which possesses the benefit of being anti-histaminic and anti-inflammatory.
Peppermint - This essential oil is perfect as an inhalation for opening up the sinuses. This study shows it is significantly anti-spasmodic as well. * Note: Not for use with children under the age of 2.
Have you used any of these remedies for allergies? Which are your favorites?