Spring is in the air, and with it comes the dreaded allergies. Pollen counts are high, and everyone is sneezing and sniffling. But, if you’re one of the millions of Americans who suffer from allergies, don’t despair. Many home remedies can help you fight your allergies and feel better. This blog post will discuss some of the most effective home remedies for allergies. It will also provide tips on how to reduce your exposure to allergens. So read on, and find out how you can get relief from your allergies!
Contents
Exercise
Exercising can assist with allergic reactions, including respiratory allergies (related to breathing), although it’s unclear why. Exercise isn’t harmful to people who have allergies in moderation, and it has a variety of health advantages. People who have allergies can follow the general population’s exercise recommendations. 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity a week, at a minimum. Walking, running, cycling, treadmill exercise, swimming, and other exercises are examples of these activities. Research discovered that adults with respiratory allergies experienced fewer symptoms after doing moderate cold-weather exercise. For example, adults with respiratory allergies took part in a four-hour hiking/snowshoeing excursion or a day of skiing in moderately chilly alpine conditions. After 12 weeks, allergy symptoms and breathing function tests improved. These benefits occurred both the day after exercise and 60 days later.
Nasal Irrigation
Nasal irrigation, also known as saline lavage or nasal rinse, is popular among individuals who suffer from allergies and have respiratory distress. It’s an at-home treatment that involves cleaning one’s nose with saltwater. Nasal irrigation is safe to do regularly or even several times per day to alleviate congestion-related symptoms. All you have to do is purchase a kit and follow the instructions for a nasal wash. Another choice is a neti pot, which is a tiny ceramic container with one or two holes in the bottom. It works by dumping saline solution through one nostril and letting it flow out through the other. If you have children with allergies, doctors may give your kid a nasal rinse in the hospital during an inpatient stay, especially for infants with severe respiratory problems.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with allergic reactions such as allergic rhinitis (nasal blockage), allergic asthma, eczema, and anaphylaxis. This vitamin has immunomodulatory capabilities by regulating immune system cells and the production of chemicals that may trigger allergy symptoms. Vitamin D medications have been found in studies to aid with inflammation and allergic reactions. According to one study, vitamin D-deficient people who took vitamin D supplements along with antihistamines (allergy medicines) had improved allergy symptoms after eight weeks.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids are fats present in the body that you can only receive through your diet. Fish, walnuts, vegetable oil, flax seeds, and leafy greens are all rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown in studies to lower inflammatory chemicals in the body, which have a role in allergies and asthma. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements have been found in research to lessen some of the symptoms of asthma and atopic dermatitis. In addition, researchers are examining whether taking omega-3 fish oil supplements during pregnancy might help prevent atopic dermatitis and food allergies in babies. There have been some promising findings, but the data is still preliminary.
Butterbur
Butterbur is a plant that’s native to Europe and Asia. In studies, Butterbur extract has proven as effective as cetirizine (Zyrtec) for seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever). It may also work well against perennial allergic rhinitis, which occurs year-round. In addition, Butterbur may help relieve other allergy symptoms, such as itchy eyes and sneezing. Butterbur extract is available in pill form. Be sure to purchase a product that’s labeled “PA-free,” as some butterbur products may contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which can be harmful to the liver. Follow the dosage instructions on the product label.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms (usually bacteria) that are similar to those found naturally in the gut. Probiotic supplements may help reduce the severity of allergies and eczema. For example, a specific type of probiotic called Lactobacillus rhamnosus was found in one study to reduce eczema severity in infants. Probiotics may also help prevent allergies. A large, long-term study found that infants who received probiotic-containing foods (such as yogurt) starting at four weeks of age had a lower risk of developing eczema and other allergic diseases by the time they turned five years old.
Quercetin
Quercetin is a type of flavonoid. Flavonoids are plant compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Quercetin can be in high amounts in certain fruits and vegetables, such as apples, onions, berries, and leafy greens. In studies, quercetin has proven to reduce the production of histamine. Histamine is a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. Quercetin may also help to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Conclusion
Overall, there are many natural ways that you can try to relieve your allergy symptoms. However, be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, as some may interact with medications you’re already taking. In addition, it would be best to avoid self-diagnosing and self-treating, as some allergies can be severe and even life-threatening. If you’re unsure whether you have allergies or if your symptoms are severe, see an allergist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
