6 NATURAL ALTERNATIVES TO YOUR SEASONAL ALLERGY MEDS
Even though it’s been a chilly few weeks, we know that everything will be blooming soon! That can mean an intense experience with seasonal allergies for some.
Allergies are caused, essentially, by an immune system that overreacts to a substance. Your body sees the allergen, incorrectly recognizes it as a toxin, and reacts with inflammation (picture puffy eyes, scratchy throat, or runny nose). Often, people with a higher baseline level of inflammation will have a worse time dealing with seasonal allergies.
If you want to try something other than your OTC meds (let’s be honest, they make most people feel terrible, anyway), keep reading!
Start taking local honey - a teaspoon in the morning. For the benefits to take full effect, the honey must be local and unpasteurized. Local honey gives you slight exposure to the very allergens that your body is reacting to. This exposure teaches your body that these things are safe and don’t require a reaction. In addition, raw honey has anti-inflammatory properties. That’s why we love honey when our throats are feeling hoarse.
Standard Process has some great options: Allerplex, Congaplex, and Immuplex. They are formulated for different people and different concerns. Talk to me about which is best for you!
Reduce the actual toxins that you do have control over. Think: personal care products, candles, laundry soap, deodorant, etc. Many of these products contain harmful fragrances and dyes. The #1 ingredient to look out for? Parfum. Try to find products that are unscented or lightly scented with natural ingredients. This reduces the burden on your immune system and nervous system.
Reduce your inflammation. Consume lots of organic fruits and veggies. You cannot have enough water, water, water. Move your body to promote circulation and lymphatic drainage (your lymph system is the “garbage disposal” of your body - you don’t want it to become stagnant!). Reduce your inflammation by getting adjusted! If you’d like, you can look into certain supplements like turmeric and fish oil.
Keep your space clean. Vacuum at least 2xs/week and dust once a week - I love a Norwex duster! Check your house’s air filter and replace it if needed. It wouldn’t hurt to get a few live plants in your space - they actually help to clean the air!
Get adjusted! Neurological chiropractic care focuses on improving nervous system function. Because the nervous system controls every other system in your body, including your immune system, symptoms start to fade away. Patients report fewer seasonal allergies within a season!