The end of summer seasonal allergy is about to kick off, many people are starting to feel the bothersome symptoms of seasonal allergies. Itchy eyes, sneezing fits, and congestion can put a damper on outdoor activities and overall well-being. While conventional medications can provide relief, there are also many natural methods worth exploring. But, before all, a gentle reminder for everyone that a balanced diet, quality sleep, regular exercise and a low stress level are the essentials for a strong immune system.
Here, we name several effective and safe ways which can help manage seasonal allergies symptoms:
Monitor Pollen Counts
Keeping track of local pollen counts is important for allergy management. Various weather websites and apps provide daily pollen forecasts, helping you anticipate high pollen days and plan your activities accordingly. On days when the pollen count is especially high, try to limit your time outdoors, especially during peak pollen hours (usually mid-morning and early evening).
Create an Allergy-Free Living Environment
Minimize exposure to allergens within your home (or office, where you spend a prolonged period of time) by taking simple steps such as regularly cleaning and vacuuming to reduce dust and pollen buildup. Consider using air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters to trap airborne allergens.
Nasal Irrigation
Nasal irrigation, often done with a neti pot or saline solution, is an ancient practice used to rinse out allergens and mucus from the nasal passages. This helps alleviate congestion and reduces the severity of allergic reactions. Ensure to use sterile water or follow proper cleaning procedures for the neti pot to avoid infections.
Adopt foods with Natural antihistamines
Research shows that including foods containing natural antihistamines can help reduce allergic reactions and provide certain relief from seasonal allergy symptoms. Some well-known ones are vitamin C, probiotics, quercetin and bromelain.
Quercetin is a natural antioxidant flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables, such as apples, onions, citrus fruits, and broccoli. Bromelain is an enzyme found in the core and juice of pineapples and is also available as a supplement.
Acupuncture treatment
Acupuncture is known to offer an effective and side-effect free solution for treating allergies. Here are a few aspects which acupuncture can help with your seasonal allergies:
Modulating the immune response: acupuncture strengthens the immune system and restores the balance of the various systems and organs in the body. It aims to help regulate an overactive immune response that triggers allergy symptoms.
Reducing inflammation: acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins and other neurochemicals that can reduce inflammation in the body, potentially leading to a decrease in allergy symptoms.
Managing stress: allergies can be exacerbated by stress. Acupuncture treatment does a wonderful job in promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
To obtain the best result with acupuncture, we recommend starting your treatment 2 - 3 weeks before the first symptoms start. Your acupuncturist will be able to work with you, make a personalized treatment plan to help you be in control of your allergy symptoms and embrace the greatness of the outdoors