Natural treatments are proven to be just as effective in preventing and treating allergies as the OTC medications are, and come with fewer, if any, negative side effects.
Herbal supplementation can have a direct effect by lowering inflammation. Frankincense, turmeric and eyebright are inflammation-modulating herbs that can be effective in decreasing the histamine-induced inflammation. Stinging nettle leaf can be used as a tea and is known for its anti-allergic effects.
Quercetin is a natural compound that belongs to the flavonoid family of plant molecules, and is especially concentrated in the skins of fruit. Quercetin stabilizes mast cells, the cells responsible for histamine release, thereby inhibiting their degranulation (aka: the ability to release histamine), which causes the allergy symptoms we experience. Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant and natural anti-inflammatory. Foods high in quercetin are apples, red or black grapes, blueberries, blackberries, cherries, onions and green tea.
Other naturally helpful tips include running an air purifier, using a nasal rinse or neti pot, ingesting local honey, and acupuncture. Not all supplements or remedies will work for everyone, as we are all unique and our medicine should be as well. This is why it is helpful to work with a naturopathic doctor or other knowledgeable practitioner.
Overall, the natural world has many choices to help with seasonal allergies, and, in most cases, can help you avoid medications while making your body healthier in the process.
Source: Dr. Siobhan Hanlon, ND, of Inner Source Health. Devoted to helping people through her holistic approach, she continues to make huge strides at Inner Source Health, unifying science with natural complementary methodologies. Inner Source Health has offices in Huntington and New York City. For more information or to schedule a free 10-minute consult, call 631-421-1848 or visit InnerSourceHealth.com. See ad on page 4.
