I don’t think of myself as an allergy-prone person, but something has been getting to me this spring. When I’m desperate I use an antihistamine, but hate the way it makes me feel…tired, groggy, blah. Â When I saw this list from Dr. Williams I thought I’d pass it along.
If Allergies Are A Problem For You, Here Are A Couple Of Quick Tips That Might Help
Vitamin C
Good for More Than Colds
Start by loading up with at least two grams of vitamin C daily. This dose has been shown indirectly to reduce blood histamine levels as much as 38 percent.
Histamine is the body’s own chemical that often triggers an over-reaction of the immune system to a foreign substance. Most of the prescription allergy drugs and antihistamines work by trying to prevent the release of histamine or by reducing histamine levels. Unfortunately, they can cause a wide range of side effects (heart problems, hair loss, adrenal depletion, weight gain, drowsiness, mood changes, etc.).
In addition, drug-containing sprays and inhalers can often lead to “rebound congestion,†addiction, and even permanent damage of the nasal passages when used for as little as a few days.
Nasal Irrigation
I suggest using a homemade saltwater solution to clear your sinuses instead
Nasal irrigation is comfortable and easy to do. Follow these steps using a neti pot:
- Mix 2 cups (16 ounces) of distilled lukewarm water with a teaspoon of salt and fill the neti pot.
- While standing over a sink, very slightly tilt your head forward and then to one side, to about 45 degrees. Put the spout of the neti pot in the upper nostril and slowly pour until that nostril fills with water and begins to empty out the lower nostril.
- When the pot has emptied, clear out both nostrils, and do the same thing through the other nostril.
Repeat the procedure several times a day for as long as needed.
Honey
Nature’s Alternative to Allergy Shots
Finally, the use of local raw honey can be used to acclimate your immune system to pollens in a certain locale.
The honey must be raw and uncooked, and it may not help immediately—but if 1 or 2 teaspoons are used daily for six months to a year, the results are usually very worthwhile. Honey works on the same basic principle as desensitization shots, without the expense or discomfort.
