Nothing to Sneeze At: Holistic Help for Seasonal Allergies

Freedom from seasonal allergies

Seasonal allergies or "hay fever" can be very uncomfortable and discouraging for outdoor enthusiasts. Seasonal allergic rhinitis is caused by an overreaction by the immune system to whatever allergen/pollen the subject is sensitive to, resulting in the immune system overproducing immunoglobulin E antibodies, causing a release of histamine by the body. The ensuing inflammatory response can include the typical bouts of sneezing; watery, itchy eyes; sinus pressure/pain/discharge; coughing fits; congestion; nasal discharge and sore throat. Conventional medical approaches to treating the symptoms don't typically help the underlying issue, but can provide temporary relief (such as antihistamines). From a holistic perspective, we want to provide relief, while also striving to find permanent solutions by looking to "root cause" treatment. The following are some tips for helping with seasonal allergies.

Tip #1: Homeopathy

Although the best way to find a permanent solution for seasonal allergies is through a homeopathic consultation that helps to determine the patient's constitutional prescription, there are some homeopathic remedies that can be very useful for symptom relief as well.

For an acute seasonal allergy attack, the homeopathic remedy called Allium Cepa can be very helpful for symptoms that include profuse and acrid nasal discharge and sneezing, as well as watery eyes that do not have a burning sensation.

The homeopathic remedy, Euphrasia is also excellent for acute seasonal allergies, but it's indications are the opposite of Allium Cepa's in that, with Euphrasia, the lacrimal discharge (watery eyes) is acrid and the nasal discharge is bland. Euphrasia helps inflamed eyes that burn and itch and are very irritated.

Natrum Muriaticum is an excellent remedy for allergies. The remedy has indications for nasal discharge that resembles "egg whites"; sneezing fits; chapped lips and cracks at the corners of the mouth; and a nasal discharge that is worse in open air and windy weather.

Homeopathic Sabadilla is known especially for having tremendous bouts of sneezing, as well as constant itching inside the nose; watery nasal discharge alternating with nasal congestion; watery eyes that burn and are red and are worse with each sneeze.

Isopathic remedies can also be useful for allergy sufferers. These remedies use the actual allergen in a homeopathic preparation and have been shown via various clinical studies to be highly effective in helping with seasonal allergies. A remedy called "Allersode" made by "Professional Formulas" is one such remedy. The company only allows healthcare practitioners to order from them, but they have regional isopathic remedies that include the pollen from each region in the formula, somewhat similar to "allergy shots" within conventional medicine. Contact me for more information.

There are many other homeopathic remedies that can be used for hay fever symptoms, but these few are some of the main ones for acute flare-ups.

Herbs and supplements for allergies

Tip #2: Naturopathy

Various nutritional supplements and herbs can also be very helpful when supporting seasonal allergy issues. One of my favorite supplements for allergies is Quercitin, which is a flavinoid and anti-oxidant that helps to stabilize mast cells. Foods high in Quercitin include: capers (which have the highest amounts found in food sources); green and yellow peppers; shallots; red apples; cherries; broccoli; kale; red leaf lettuce; onions; tomatoes; red grapes; berries; and asparagus.

Other supplements and herbs that can be of benefit for hay fever symptoms include: Vitamin C; Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid); essential fatty acids (fish or flax oils); stinging nettles; CoQ10; Zinc; Holy Basil; Bee pollen (and raw honey); licorice; and Burdock. Dosages can be seen on individual bottles, but with my patients, I adjust dosages as needed. Please check with your healthcare practitioner or schedule a consultation with me or another naturopath or homeopath if you are on any medications before taking any herbs or supplements.

Essential oils can also be of benefit in supporting hay fever symptoms. Lavender, Peppermint, sandalwood, ravensara, frankincense, rosemary, eucalyptus, cypress oils are a few that can be helpful, however there are others as well. Diffuse them or blend with a carrier oil and apply topically.

Tip #3 Lifestyle considerations

Studies have shown that food allergies can contribute to the severity of hay fever. With suspected food allergies or sensitivities, doing an elimination diet can possibly help with seasonal allergy symptoms as well. Working with a practitioner to do a "healing gut" protocol also can be beneficial with this aspect of potential lifestyle adjustments.

Addressing any adrenal insufficiency/fatigue states is also important when dealing with chronic seasonal allergies. Taking Vitamin B6, as well as licorice root and other adrenal supporting supplements can help as well.

Dehydration can contribute to dryness and congestion in allergies, so it is important to be aware of water/fluid intake during allergy season. Utilizing a netti-pot or other nasal saline sprays can also help to moisten any dry nasal passages that might become uncomfortable during this season.

Consistent vacuuming, using air filters, showering after being outdoors, changing and washing bedding regularly, etc can also be very supportive.

In Conclusion

The misery of hay fever doesn't have to be your annual experience.

Please contact me via the contact form on this page for a consultation today.

Copyright Teresa Glick, ND, CHom, Holistic Harmony Natural Health Counseling, LLC