I’m sure many of you have been greeted by the start of our wonderful allergy season and are looking for ways to reduce the sneezing, stuffy nose, etc.
Well, here are some helpful tips that will keep those symptoms at bay for pollen season and in September when ragweed comes along!
Probiotics
A good quality probiotic taken consistently can reduce the severity of allergies. This might sound illogical since probiotics are bacteria that we ingest for digestive health. Actually, research shows that bacteria in the gut does not operate in isolation to the rest of our body. These little guys produce chemicals and signals that DIRECTLY impact the behavior of our immune system. Good bacteria (found in probiotics) cause the immune system to tone its allergic response down. Bad bacteria do they opposite.
Quercetin
This is a compound found in apples and if taken in high enough doses (more than what’s in apples unfortunately!), it actually prevents immune cells from releasing histamine (the compound that causes that itching, red, angry sensation in your skin, nose, and throat!). It doesn’t work overnight though, so it’s better as a long-term treatment, rather than something to use acutely.
Immune Modulating Herbs
There’s tons of herbs that tone down that allergic response from the immune system. Examples are feverfew, and albizia, and they can have significant effects on how you feel through these pollen-laced months.
Diet
Food sensitivities can trigger an over-reactive immune system, just like how bad gut bacteria can. Even though you’re allergic to pine or grass for example, doesn’t mean that what you eat is irrelevant!
Natural Allergy Shots
I do these at my clinic and they can be a God-send for some patients! The shots are composed of ingredients that help desensitize the immune system. It’s a great thing to do if you’re in allergy season and you realize it’s way worse than you expected.
