Hay fever and other forms of seasonal and atmospheric allergies can make life a pure misery, especially during a flare up. Although the irritants may differ from person to person, the results are often the same: itchy watery eyes, sneezing, fluid retention, and swelling. In some extreme cases, sinus congestion and irritation can even result in life threatening infection.
This is perhaps why the allergy industry is a billion dollar one. Every pharmaceutical company has devised their own miracle cure for allergy suffers. The problem is, some of these remedies can cause a host of side effects, including drowsiness, which adds to the allergy symptoms.
Reducing the Irritant
Some experts tell sufferers to simply avoid the irritant, but how feasible is that if the entire world is the culprit? One cannot miss work or fail to pick up the kids because of pollen. Likewise, it may be nearly impossible to reduce other issues, like mold. It would appear that the real solution would be to locate natural remedies that are cost effective and provide lasting results.
Well-Known Home Remedies
Allergies can greatly lower your quality of life and cause you to miss out on important life events. On the flipside, sleep inducing OTC or prescription medicines may be just as bad and lower one's ability to function normally.
With the diverse range of home remedies available today however, a great alternative exists that may enable victims to perform essential tasks even in an environment that would trigger reactions.
Some of the top herbal remedies that provide relief without interfering with routine activities include but are not limited to:
o Chamomile - This sweet smelling and tasting flower is a natural antihistamine and is said to calm frazzled nerves as well. Most people ingest this herbal remedy as a tea, but some can find them in supplement form at a local natural foods store. There is one caveat however-people with ragweed allergies should stay away from chamomile as it belongs to this plant family.
o Garlic and Honey - For decades people have sworn by this home remedy and modern science was able to find out why. Garlic has incredible decongestant properties, while honey effectively combats common, every day allergens. To get the full benefits of these to powerful agents, one should crush a clove of garlic, steep it in a teacup full of hot water, and mix in a teaspoon or two of honey. Drinking the concoction twice a day will open the sinuses and increase resistant to environmental allergens.
o Ginger - Ginger is an all around curative root that has been used in Chinese herbal medicine for centuries. As a natural remedy it can't be beat, especially when it comes to annoying hay fever. Because it is known to boost immunity and reduce the production of histamine, it is the top of the line ingredient for anyone seeking natural remedies for allergies.
o Green Tea - Green tea also possesses a natural histamine blocker. It can therefore provide resistance against the onslaught of irritants that provoke allergy attacks. Mixed with peppermint oil or leaves, one can get the combined effect of a quality decongestant that will not cause drowsiness.
There are even some people swear that eating a tablespoon of raw honey can counteract the effects of allergens. Although this has not been clinically proven, the use of this simple herbal remedy persists to this day.
Be Proactive
Of course, you can make your home allergen proof by vacuuming often, using HEPA air filters, and telling visitors they cannot smoke in you house. If you are a smoker, try reducing cigarette consumption during flare ups. One should also endeavor to shower and wash the hair daily, as outside exposure brings us into contact with triggers that can cause us grief later.
By remaining diligent in the fight against allergens, you may find that the allergy seasons stop affecting you altogether, giving you greater control of your life and destiny.
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