It’s almost that time of year again, so time to get prepping for those irritating spring allergies.
Although there are lots of over the counter medications that you can take, these do have side effects and all medications cause build up and free radicals in the body, while also causing liver damage over time. Our natural remedies on the other hand are much safer, and kind on the body.
It is estimated that around 21 million Brits suffer from at least a single allergy during the spring and summer months according to Allergy UK, and so it’s definitely time to do something about it and consume the natural foods that can help your body to fight allergies naturally.
Acupuncture:
Acupuncture is an ancient healing art, and one that we offer here at Amchara.
It has been proven to be able to assist by reducing swelling in the nasal passages and it does so more quickly than herbal remedies.
It is also believed to give the immune system added strength, which helps the body to fight against spring allergies such as rhinitis and hay-fever.
Garlic
Garlic contains a natural compound called quercetin, which is also present in onions and apples and in studies it has been shown to have a natural antihistamine effect.
When you regularly ingest plenty of quercetin, you should have enough natural antihistamine in the body to avoid spring allergies altogether, or at least to see a vast improvement.
Chamomile
Chamomile relieves dry and itchy eye symptoms of spring allergies.
The best way to get immediate relief is to place two chamomile teabags in a cold bowl of water to soak, then place over the eyes for 5-10 minutes.
Cayenne Peppers
Cayenne peppers also contain quercetin like garlic and onion, however cayenne peppers also have anti-inflammatory effects which can further help to reduce swelling in the nasal passages and throat.
Nuts
Nuts contain high levels of vitamin E and magnesium.
Magnesium is helpful in preventing wheezing that is often associated with asthma, while vitamin E is good for a healthy immune system and helps the body to neutralise free radicals, thus inhibiting inflammation.
Thyme
Thyme is a common herb in the UK and it has been show to work as a natural expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm associated with spring allergies (as well as colds).
Even certain manmade medications contain thyme due to its strong expectorant effects.
It is also a natural antimicrobial helping to fight infection.
Drinking thyme tea twice daily can allow you to feel its effects.
Citrus Fruits
Oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruit contain high levels of vitamin C that can help to boost the immune system, thus lessening the effects of allergies on the body.
Elderberries
Elderberries are strong antioxidants and they also contain high levels of phytonutrients, and again as this helps to strengthen the immune system, it can help to treat hayfever naturally.
It is also a natural anti-inflammatory and can reduce swelling associated with hayfever, rhinitis and other spring allergies.
Red Grapes
Red grapes are packed with antioxidants, which help to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, while the skin is brimming with resveratrol which is also an anti-inflammatory, giving you a double dose of inflammation reduction.
Collard Greens
Collard greens contain high levels of phytochemicals called carotenoids, which is renowned for easing up symptoms of allergies.
Broccoli
Broccoli when consumed can relive blocked sinuses and sinus pain, and because it contains lots of vitamin C it can also boost your immune system to further help fight the allergies.
If you do suffer from hayfever, rhinitis or any other kind of allergy such as asthma, it is a good idea to have a diet rich with the ingredients that we have listed to aid your body in its own allergy response.
If you suffer only from spring allergies, these spring allergy remedies should be consumed starting in February/March ready for the spring season.
And don’t forget to check out the treatments available that can also help with your allergies, including our acupuncture treatment.
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