Allergies can be very much uncomfortable and irritating. Many people around the world suffer from allergies who have to constantly be watchful in order to avoid the specific allergens (agents causing allergies) they are allergic to. The allergens vary widely; however the symptoms are quite common which include Coughing, Sneezing, and Inflamed skin (usually after the itch).
You must be quite familiar with the conventional methods of treating allergies wherein drugs like Chlorpheniramine and levocetrizine are used to suppress the inflammatory reactions. These do have certain health implications like drowsiness and liver damage which are their usual side effects. But there are few natural ways of treating allergies which are free of any serious health implications as mentioned above. Here are the top 5 ways to fight allergies naturally.
QUERCETIN SUPPLEMENTS: Quercetin is a flavanoid and a potent anti-inflammatory agent found naturally in many foods such as Tea, Apples, Onions, Grapes, Citrus fruits, Tomatoes, and Leafy vegetables. It works great in people suffering from allergic Rhinitis. Besides its Anti-inflammatory property, Quercetin is also found to have potent Anti-oxidant and Anti-cancer properties. For optimal results, foods containing Quercetin must be consumed for atleast 2 months.
BROMELAIN: The next best option to treat an allergy naturally would be by the use of bromelain enzyme containing foods. It is found in pineapples which can be used to treat sinusitis, rhinitis and reduce excess swelling. Bromelain is sometimes used in Post-surgical treatment to alleviate swelling and inflammation. Apart from these uses, it can also be used in treatment of Ulcerative colitis, Hay fever, and in removal of dead tissue left over after injuries.
FLAX SEEDS: The flaxseeds come in two varieties, brown and the yellow. These are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids which have powerful Anti-oxidant property. Consumption of flax oil and flax seeds helps fight inflammation, a property which could be exploited to fight allergies. These are also believed to possess Anti-cancer properties.
NETTLE: Out of all the nettles available, stinging nettle (Urtica dioca) can be medicinally used to treat Allergies. Interestingly nettle varieties can be used for wide range of medical conditions such as Rheumatism, Constipation, Osteoarthritis, Respiratory tract infection and Rhinitis.
COMMON BUTTERBUR: It is an herb (Petasites hybridus) native to England and Asia. Studies have proved that extract of butterbur has potential anti-histaminic properties which could be used to treat Allergic rhinitis. However the reports have shown that some people might be allergic to this herb and in such cases you must avoid getting in contact with this herb. You might perform a Patch test in order to check out your compatibility with the herb.
