Overcoming Spring Allergies Naturally
Forget the over-the-counter remedies - Nature knows best!
Feb 10, 2009
The weather gets warm, the plants start to blossom and out come the tissues. Millions of people every year are affected by seasonal allergies. It's pretty common knowledge that allergies are an immunological reaction to the presence of what would otherwise be an innocuous substance. Severe allergic reactions can be to food or drugs, sometimes resulting in death, but most allergies are comparatively mild to moderate and can be handled without the use of extreme medication.
Understanding the Mechanism
Seasonal allergies especially tend to affect the sinuses. The upper respiratory system can become affected by secondary reactions - the mucus produced in the sinuses can cause a sympathetic buildup of mucus in the chest. But why does the body produce mucus against allergens at all? Mucus is the body's way of trapping foreign particles to keep them from infiltrating the whole system.
The body then has to do something with the "enemies" that it's trapped, and this is where the hidden controller of allergies comes in: the liver! The liver's job is so complex that it could fill whole books on its own, but for this purpose, it's focus is to help the body break down and eliminate foreign particles. Without a well-functioning liver, allergies can end up being only the tip of the ice berg.
Toning the System
There are many different methods available for cleansing the liver, and some are more aggressive than others. Naturopaths will weigh whether or not the kidney and urinary system needs to be toned first since it doesn't help to encourage the liver to process pathogens for elimination and then not be able to get rid of them. One of the gentlest and most effective supplements is called Antronex by Standard Process. It is available only from natural health professionals. An option for toning during cleansing is a program of Milk Thistle.
Consult with your favorite natural physician to find the best means of liver cleansing for you. Clinical experience in naturopathic practices indicates that keeping the liver clean and toned can actually reduce or eliminate the presence of environmental allergies altogether. People who have been allergic to cats, for instance, discover that within a month of a liver cleanse, they are able to snuggle their feline pals again without breaking out in hives or succumbing to sneezing fits.
Treating the Symptoms
Cleansing the liver is a great long-term solution, but in the meantime, there are still some pesky sniffles and sneezes to deal with. Before you run for the Echinacea or Cat's Claw, remember that boosting your immune system can sometimes make your reactions worse: allergies are, after all, your body having a reaction against something that it thinks is pathogenic. Only use these herbs if you are starting to experience secondary infections such as green mucus or fever - nasal drip can cause the lining of the sinuses and throat to become raw and susceptible to other non-allergy-related bacteria.
The greatest unsung hero of allergy relief is a spoonful of locally-produced Honey. This sticky mainstay of natural remedies can relieve the discomfort from coughing and sniffling, and it can also help relieve the immunological response itself. Because locally-produced Honey will have been made from pollen in your area - likely the same pollen you're reacting to - it can help the body recognize that the harsh reaction is just not necessary.
Warnings and Disclaimers
This article is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any illness, nor is it meant to replace the advice of a qualified natural health professional. Please see a qualified natural health professional for any physical ailments you may experience.
Do not give Honey to children younger than 18 months old due to a slight chance of botulism, which can be fatal. Those with systemically compromised immune systems or auto-immune disorders should not take Echinacea. Do not take Cat's Claw or Echinacea for longer than two weeks.
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