Seasonal allergies are hitting hard this year in the Tennessee Valley and across The South. The pollen counts are sky high and those of us that suffer from seasonal allergies are not very happy campers right now. For any of you that are Star Wars fans, the fact that some pollen molecules look like the Death Star under a microscope is no coincidence.
Seasonal allergies are hitting hard this year in the Tennessee Valley and across The South. The pollen counts are sky high and those of us that suffer from seasonal allergies are not very happy campers right now. For any of you that are Star Wars fans, the fact that some pollen molecules look like the Death Star under a microscope is no coincidence.
Though pollen is a necessary and vital part of the coming of Spring, it is a major nuisance for those of us with seasonal allergies. So, how can we combat these in a natural way without having to resort to over the counter or prescription pharmaceuticals? Most people turn to antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays, and allergy shots to address their symptoms. Unfortunately, many of these drugs can cause significant side effects, and relief tends to be short-lived.
Why do we get seasonal allergies?
Allergies are your body’s reaction to particles that it considers foreign (aka allergens). It essentially is a hypersensitivity of the immune system that causes damaging responses that can affect the whole body.
When your body encounters an allergen, within a few minutes you will produce a chemical called histamine which works by helping to counteract the allergen. The immune system causes allergic reactions by producing Immunoglobin E (IgE) antibodies when trigger the symptoms we associate with allergies such as sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, hacky cough, itchy eyes, etc.
What are some supplements you can take for relief?
There are a variety of natural remedies out there and product formulations that combine some powerful allergy relieving plants to create even more potent products. The two most common supplements for allergy relief are quercetin and stinging nettle.
Quercetin is an antioxidant that is found in plants called flavonoids. Many believe quercetin-rich foods (such as leafy greens, berries, red grapes, red onions, capers, and black tea) prevent histamine release—so they are “natural antihistamines.” Quercetin is also available in supplement form. Quercetin can help stabilize the release of histamines which can result in decreasing symptoms like cough, watery eyes, and runny noses.
Another natural antihistamine, stinging nettle has a long history of use for seasonal allergies, without the drowsiness and dry mouth associated with many pharmacological antihistamines. Nettle inhibits your body’s ability to produce histamines.
There are several formulations out there that work well for allergy relief. For some rapid relief that combines both the quercetin as well as the stinging nettle and a plethora of other allergy fighting, immune boosting vitamins and herbs, a wonderful option is Aller-Ease by Buried Treasure. Buried Treasure is a privately owned and is right up the road from us in Pikeville, TN. This formulation is in liquid form which allows for faster absorption in the body since the body doesn’t have to go through the same digestion process with liquid as it would a capsule or tablet.
Read more about the powerful flavonoid Quercetin here.
What are some other things you can do?
- Consider incorporating the Core 4 into your everyday routine. Certain strains of probiotics have been studied to help protect from allergies. Studies have also shown that people with higher omega-3 levels suffer less from allergies as well. These are two of the four components of the Core 4.
- Not included in the Core 4, but incredibly vital, is Vitamin D. Vitamin D is crucial to so many aspects of health and studies have been done that show improved respiratory function when levels are sufficient.
- Raw honey contains both beneficial bacteria and trace amounts of pollen picked up by the bees from local plants. Consuming raw honey produced in your area can help to “educate” your immune system to tolerate these local pollens. It’s important to get local honey as close to your zip code as possible for the best effect. Within 50 miles is ideal.
- If you choose to exercise outside, go later in the day when the pollen counts aren’t as high. They are typically the highest first thing in the morning, which is why our cars are green when we get up to go to work!
There are many other things we can do to help combat these pesky allergies, but we hope that this is a good starting point and that you will be able to find some relief if you’re struggling right now.
Resources:
https://draxe.com/8-natural-allergy-relief-remedies/
Disclaimer: The information on this website and the topics discussed have not been evaluated by the FDA or anyone of the medical profession, and is not aimed to replace any advice you may receive from your medical practitioner. Nutrition World assumes no responsibility or liability whatsoever on the behalf of any purchaser or reader of any of these materials. Nutrition World is not a doctor, nor does it claim to be, please consult your physician before beginning any health regimen. If you are being treated for any medical illness, check with your medical professional before starting any protocol.
