Control fall allergies with natural remedies

Monday, October 08, 2012 by: Luella May
Tags: allergies, natural remedies, herbs

(NaturalNews) Although many people associate allergy season with the onset of spring, fall can also wreak havoc with allergy sufferers. This year, instead of suffering under mounds of tissues or resorting to over-the-counter or even worse yet, prescribed medications or allergy shots, discover the relief that natural remedies can bring.

What is an allergy?

An allergy occurs when an individual breathes in certain triggers (such as pollen). The body sees this as a foreign invader, much like a bacteria or virus, and sends out its defenses, releasing antibodies to attack these allergens. This leads to the release of chemicals (histamines) which result in a runny nose, sneezing, watering eyes, inflammation and congestion.

We generally don't consider allergies to be as serious an issue as an infection. However, a severe allergy can result in infection. A prolonged or severe allergy can block sinus drainage sites leading to a sinus infection. Congestion can also drain to the chest, causing respiratory infections that can result in asthma or even pneumonia. A primary allergy cause is an impaired immune system due to toxic overload.

Fall allergy triggers

During both spring and fall, pollen is a common allergy trigger. Male plants that begin to pollinate during August, often continue this process into the fall season. The biggest offender is ragweed. A great number of people allergic to spring pollen are also allergic to ragweed. Moreover, the wind can carry ragweed pollen for hundreds of miles, so this offender may not necessarily come from your own back yard.

Another offender not to be overlooked is mold. Mold spores can easily become airborne, putting us at risk. Mold grows in damp areas, indoors and outdoors. A common place for mold growth is in those leaves that fall from trees during this season. Piles of damp leaves are perfect breeding grounds for mold.

Dust mites are another danger. Although dust mites are mostly present during humid summer months, they can be stirred up and become airborne when the furnace is first used on a cool fall night.

In certain parts of the country, fall allergens can also include goldenrod, curly dock, lamb's quarters, pigweed, sheep sorrel, and sagebrush.

Ways to control allergens

*Avoid contact with allergens as much as possible. Keep your house well ventilated, making sure that your filtration system is up to date.

*Rake those fallen leaves in your back yard in a timely manner.

*A natural diet containing antioxidants and omega-3 essential fatty acids will help to detox the body, thereby strengthening the immune system.

*Many people find significant allergy relief by consuming local, raw, organic honey.

Various nutrients, herbs and other supplements can support your immune system, minimizing or eliminating allergy attacks

*Colloidal silver provides immune support to the body, lessening or eliminating allergic reaction. It is also instrumental in preventing infections that can occur with prolonged or severe allergies.

*Butterbur taken four times a day is as effective as over-the-counter medications, without any adverse side effects.

*Quercetin stabilizes cells and prevents the release of histamines.

*Omega-3 fatty acids. People who eat a high content of Omega-3 fatty acids are more likely to resist allergy symptoms.

*Probiotics helps support the body's natural terrain and strengthens the immune system.

*Cayenne, ginger, onions, and garlic are effective allergy treatments.

*Use stinging nettle leaf at the first sign of an allergy.

*Fortify your body with vitamins C and E to strengthen your immune system.

Lastly, keep your body hydrated with plenty of water. It is important to replace those fluids that are being expelled from the body.

Sources:

http://allergies.about.com/od/noseandsinusallergies/a/sinusitis.htm
http://www.liferesearchuniversal.com/allergy.html
http://www.everydayhealth.com

About the author:
Luella May is a natural health advocate helping people to heal naturally. She partners with Tony Isaacs, who authors books and articles about natural health including "Cancer's Natural Enemy" and "Collected Remedies" Luella contributes to The Best Years in Life website for baby boomers and others wishing to avoid prescription drugs and mainstream managed illness and live longer, healthier and happier lives naturally. Luella co-moderates the CureZone "Ask Tony Isaacs featuring Luella May" forum as well as the Yahoo Health Group "Oleander Soup" and hosts her own yahoo group focusing on the natural wellbeing of pets "The Best Years in Life Natural Health for Pets"