Treating Allergy Relief Naturally
The hillsides are bursting in shades of green, birds are chirping louder and the weather is starting to warm up. Spring is right around the corner and its promise of renewal is at our fingertips. As we gear up to prepare for this shift in seasons, we’ll have to also address the elephant in the room - spring allergies. For many, the sight of a new beautiful flower bud lies hand in hand with an itchy nose and a sinus headache. Let's prepare ourselves for all the things that spring brings and talk about how to treat allergies naturally.
TCM + Allergies
While Western medicine will lean on prescriptions like Benadryl and or Sudafed to tackle allergies, many of these drugs contain side effects that make it near impossible to carry on through the day. Conversely, Chinese Medicine will often look to the natural elements to understand our bodies. In fact, TCM theory relates springtime allergies to the wind element and dampness.
Wind = vulnerability to environmental influences
Dampness = a build up mucus within the sinus, lungs, and digestive tract
By understanding why allergies occur and what makes you susceptible, Chinese medicine practitioners take a holistic perspective to diagnose and treat folks who suffer from all the pesky symptoms. Most often, practitioners will suggest a combination of an herbal formula and regular acupuncture treatments to stabilize and rebalance your body.
Tips on How to Treat Allergies Naturally
Eat foods that are rich in the antioxidant quercetin. This flavonoid occurs naturally and acts as an anti-inflammatory and prebiotic to the healthy flora in your system. You can access it through foods like cherries, kale, red apples, green and yellow bell peppers, and shallots.
Have a telemedicine session with one of our herbalists. We mentioned before that allergies are specific to your individual constitution so having your own tailor made blend of Chinese herbs is important to treat springtime allergies.
Allergies can manifest in your skin and body, just as much as they show up in your eyes and nose. Although everyone metabolizes histamines differently, if you have a high intolerance you’ll exhibit the following symptoms: eczema, itching, bloating, diarrhea, stomachaches, nausea, and headaches. Reduce your histamine levels and avoid the following foods: Alcohol, yeast products, fermented foods, canned fish, aged cheese, strawberries and citrus. If possible, stick to non-processed, fresh foods.
For a nasal spray, try Ion Microbiome Sinus. This non-habit forming nasal spray will soothe the nasal passages and allow for easier, clearer breathing. It’s also safe for adults and kiddos to use.
Be treated regularly for acupuncture. Points around the nose and sinuses treat congestion and sinus headaches while points around the feet can target your immune system and reduce itchy eyes.