Each and every year, millions of people prepare for the onset of their seasonal allergies. They head to the drugstore and buy over-the-counter remedies to treat their runny noses, coughs, sneezes, and itchy eyes. But for a lot of people, these treatments can cause unwanted side effects and often just don’t get the job done; they still continue to suffer day in and day out from their allergies. For those who can’t find relief, natural remedies are an excellent option. They are gentler and don’t create as many side effects. To learn more about a few natural remedies to consider, read on.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is an incredibly fragrant leaf that helps to thin mucus and provide relief for heavy coughs. It’s available in a few different forms, including tea, ointment, lozenge, cough syrup, salves, and essential oil. One way you can get some quick relief is by adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil into boiling water or your vaporizer and inhaling deeply. Consult your doctor before using eucalyptus, especially if you currently take pentobarbital, amphetamines, or 5-FU. You should also consult your veterinarian before using essential oils in your home to determine if they are toxic for your pets. Cats are more sensitive to essential oils than dogs, but both can experience negative reactions. Eucalyptus is toxic for both cats and dogs.
Bromelain
This is an enzyme that is commonly found in pineapples. Bromelain is a strong anti-inflammatory that helps to rid some of the pain associated with aching joints. It also thins mucus and alleviates swelling in the nose and sinuses. Sadly, there isn’t enough bromelain in a slice of pineapple to have an effect on your allergies. Instead, you’ll need to take it by capsule every day. Keep in mind that bromelain may increase the chances of bleeding during and after surgery. Additionally, you shouldn’t use this treatment if you are currently taking antibiotics or other medications that slow blood clotting.
Vitamin C
This vitamin naturally boosts your immune system. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) also functions as a mild antihistamine too. It aids in stabilizing the membranes of the mast cells, which send out histamine. Try to increase your intake of ascorbic acid by eating more vitamin C-rich foods or chewing vitamin C tablets. It’s much easier on the digestive system if you use a diluted form instead of trying to take pure ascorbic acid.
Butterbur
Butterbur has been used as an allergy treatment since the 17th century. It is an herb in the daisy family that helps to prevent coughing and treat other respiratory symptoms of hay fever. Several separate studies found that butterbur is just as effective at treating allergies as antihistamines, but without any of the drowsiness that those drugs can cause. To use this natural remedy, take one 50-75mg capsule twice every day.
Quercetin
Quercetin is commonly found in fruits such as apples and red grapes, vegetables such as onions, and plant-based foods such as teas. It is a natural decongestant, antihistamine, and antioxidant that stops the body’s immune system from releasing histamines. You can eat foods that contain high levels of quercetin to take advantage of this remedy. However, you may need to take a supplement to receive the recommended dose.
As with any natural remedy, be sure to talk to your doctor before trying it out. They’ll be able to offer some guidance about which holistic medicine treatments in Arlington Heights, IL, are right for you. If you suffer from seasonal grass and ragweed allergies, call (847) 392-7901 to schedule an appointment with us at Midwest Allergy Relief Centers to learn more about how we can help you!+
