Home Remedies for Allergies

Author: Katherine Pretorius

Allergies are no joke, and while the puffy eyes and bobbled red nose may remind many of that elusive reindeer Rudolf, they are anything but "shiny". Seasonal changes and a host of other factors can result in an allergic reaction. When this reaction persists upon repeated exposure to allergens, we can affirm the presence of an allergy.

Common perpetrators may include pollen, pet hair or food, and the treatment or prevention methods used to minimise symptoms can be intrusive or costly.

Several extreme allergy conditions can prove fatal if not diagnosed and managed accordingly. While there is often an immediate manifestation of physical reactions after allergen exposure, individuals unaware of their condition often end up aggravating it even further through "guesswork treatments" and misinformation. Seeking professional sound advice from a specialist is advisable before attempting any pharmacological or complementary medicine applications. Lifelong allergies are not uncommon, and often simply by reducing the symptoms of an allergy, we can "bear the burden" when faced with dilemmas like pet allergies at home or the aromatic notes of your beloved mother-in-law's perfume!

Some practical methods with a proven, "tried and trusted" track record includes using honey and Neti pots. Honey is produced through the interactions of bees and flowers. It is theorised that the locality of the hive in proximity to the flower source and your home can substantially reduce the effects of an allergic reaction to pollen by consuming small amounts of locally produced honey. In the case of organic honey, the pollen traces allow a slow tolerance to be developed concerning your reaction to the allergen, allowing it to provide a range of benefits. The theory has received little scientific backing but has been common practice among natural healers for centuries.

Physical alleviation of sinus congestion and inflammation caused by allergies can also be reduced by using sodium chloride sprays and Neti pots, essentially flushing the sinus cavities facilitated through a mixture of purified water and salt. The process can be very effective in breaking apart mucus buildup or relieving dry and sensitive nasal cavities.

Steaming has a similar effect in providing some relief from congestion and irritation. Simply put hot water in a bowl and position your head over the bowl whilst covering with a towel for ten minutes, inhaling the warm vapour through the nose. Steam also provides a delivery method for several herbs that further assist in treating the latter. Some of the most common and trusted readily available as concentrates or essential oils include mint and eucalyptus oils; however, whenever possible, use fresh products. Observing adequate safety precautions is advisable due to the risk of severe burns resulting from the proximity of hot water to the face and neck.

Identifying the precursors which lead to a physical reaction is paramount in effectively diagnosing and treating allergies. Many individuals find that showering and topical applications help reduce the response to aggravators whilst creating a physical barrier; however, the practicalities of both are impossible when you suddenly find yourself wheezing at the dawn of every new season!

Approaching allergies and health-related issues according to modern medicine has not always proven beneficial regarding long-term side effects and the invasive, often unnatural approach encompassed therein.

Our ancestors gave impetus to natural avenues of healing, and perhaps by embracing a pro-organic mindset, we may finally be on a fresh new path of natural and human cohesion.