An Alternative Approach to Allergy Relief
Watery eyes, sneezing, itchy and runny nose – these are some of the symptoms commonly associated with allergies. Which raises the question – what if allergy was the symptom?
It might be surprising to learn the presence of allergies can suggest other potential underlying conditions, such as digestive distress, inflammation, leaky gut and undigested proteins and sugars.
Foreign toxins entering the body have the ability to contribute to inflamed tissue of the intestinal and respiratory tracts. When an allergen is ingested, and interacts with the inflamed tissue, symptoms will occur.
An accumulation of small harmful habits over a long period of time can eventually lead the body to prolonged stress, nutritional deficiencies, accumulation of toxins and decreasing organ (i.e., liver) function with allergy being the body’s response – a cry for help, so to speak.
While a holistic nutritionist can support allergies in a long-term and sustainable manner by helping to correct the underlying conditions of prolonged stress and digestive distress, the following are some short-term natural approaches to allergy symptom relief.
Mucous Forming Foods – There are foods that generally increase mucous production in the body, and include pork, dairy, gluten, alcohol, caffeine, refined sugar. Eliminating these foods as much as possible during allergy season can help to alleviate chest congestion. Instead, reach for wild-caught fish and seafood, garlic, onion, nuts and seeds, apples, oranges, chamomile and pure maple syrup.
Herbal Teas and Tonics – Warming herbal drinks can help to relax the body while working hard to balance pH levels and clear the chest cavity of mucous and phlegm. Immediately upon waking, drink a cup of warm (boiled) water with a tablespoon each raw (unpasteurized) honey and raw apple cider vinegar (with the mother). In addition to herbal teas, a variation of tonic recipes exists across the internet including powerful detoxifying ingredients such as lemon, ginger, cayenne, turmeric and honey. In combination with Vitamin C, antihistamine foods and herbs can be effective natural remedies for allergy.
Dry Brushing – This daily ritual can help the lymphatic system eliminate foreign toxins and harmful waste from the body. In the morning, use a dry brush to massage the skin in an upward motion starting from the feet and moving all the way up to the neck. When coupled with Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade essential oils, this ritual can invoke an uplifting, energizing, and feel-good mood.
Lymphatic Massage – Lymphatic massage is another way to help to break down and eliminate mucous and phlegm. With a tablespoon of coconut oil, and a few drops of essential oils, rub your hands together before gently massaging the chest with flat hands and in a downward motion until the oil is completely absorbed.
Rebounding – The most entertaining habit is certainly one involving a mini trampoline. The practice of rebounding is not only beneficial for relieving allergy-related symptoms, but it’s a great form of exercise that can be easily modified and tailored to all individual needs. Start by slightly bouncing with your feet grounded on the trampoline for a few minutes before starting to lift your feet with each bounce and moving your arms and hands. Set goals of 5 minutes before slowly increasing to 10, 15, and 20-minute rituals.
It’s important to consider that natural herbs and some whole foods attain the power of interfering with certain health conditions and medications. On the other hand, antihistamine medications have the ability to deteriorate the gut’s healthy microflora further contributing to allergy. Since every individual is biologically unique, a solution that works for one individual may not be constructive for another individual. Consulting with industry professionals such as nutritionists and doctors can provide the peace of mind that you’re receiving care that’s tailored to your specific health profile and needs.
The guidance provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace the medical advice or care of a licensed medical practitioner or to diagnose, treat, heal or cure any illness or disease. The reader is encouraged to consult with their primary care physician before making any lifestyle changes as it applies to their health profile.