What is an Allergy?

It is a condition in which your immune system reacts abnormally to a foreign substance. For Example – abnormal reaction to some medication, food allergy, pollen or dust etc.

Biggest culprits for Allergy-

1.Pollen
2.Dust mites
3.Pet hair
4.Mold spores
5.Insect stings
6.Food
7.Medications

Symptoms of Allergy-

1.Sneezing
2.Runny nose
3.Itching
4.Rashes
5.Swelling
6.Asthma

Types of Allergies

1.Drug Allergy.
2.Food Allergy.
3.Insect Allergy.
4.Latex Allergy.
5.Mold Allergy.
6.Pet Allergy.
7.Pollen Allergy etc.

MECHANISM OF ALLERGY-

When the Airborne agents or allergens enter in our bodies, the immune system mistakenly assumes these allergens as a danger signal and releases antibodies to attack the them and release a chemical known as histamine into the nose, eyes, and lungs. Histamine is intended to attack harmful agents and remove them from the body. Basically, histamine boosts up the blood flow of the localized area affected by allergens i.e. causing inflammation. There are various natural ways to Control the Allergy-

Nose cleansing-

Allergens adhere to your mucus membranes. You can cleanse your nasal passages with the help of a Neti pot, sinus irrigator or nasal oils.

Stress Management-

Stress hormone plays an important role in the body and can make seasonal allergies even worse.

Methods of stress management-

1.Meditation
2.Yoga and pranayama
3.Take out ME TIME or the self-care time
4.Avoid overcommitting your schedule.

Wear mask

One should wear a mask while going outside or dusting your home in order to stay safe from the allergens. Mask protects us from harmful viruses, allergens and infections.

Some herbal remedies

Butterbur- It is an herb, acting similar to antihistamines i.e. shows potential for relieving seasonal allergy symptoms.

Onions, apples, and black tea- Quercetin is a nutrient found in them and according to some research it helps to block the release of histamines.

Garlic – It is a potent anti-inflammatory and immune enhancer that contains a nutrient which is known to lower histamine. Various studies have shown that it doesn’t only improve immune function, but also acts as a natural antihistamine.

Turmeric – It is a popular herb that actually has an endless list of health benefits. The powerful active compound curcumin i.e. present in turmeric can significantly reduce and inhibit allergic responses.

A glass of turmeric milk on daily basis helps to relieve from the symptoms of Allergy.

Apple cider vinegar

1.It helps to boost the immune system, help break up mucus, and support lymphatic drainage.
2.In order to get relieve from allergy symptoms mix one to two tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water and lemon juice two times a day.
Detox the body
3.Allergies may be worsened by toxins within the body. The liver is a great mediator of inflammation in the body; Allergies can flare up, when it is working overtime metabolizing our stress, medications, alcohol, and junk foods.
4.Eliminate fried foods, sugar, alcohol and other toxins from your diet.
5.Try liver supportive foods and herbs such as milk thistle, turmeric, artichoke, citrus fruits and nuts.

Probiotics

1.Probiotics are the rich source of good bacteria which is beneficial for your gut health.
2.According to some studies, the presence of good bacteria in the gut shows reduced incidence of allergies.
3.It can help stimulate production of immune enhancing substances, hinder growth of pathogens and boost the immune system.

Add on essential oils

1.One should add essential oils to a bath, cup of tea, massage oil, or an oil diffuser, this helps a lot to reduce allergy symptoms.
2.Some essential oil like Peppermint, basil, eucalyptus, and tea tree oils have been linked to fight inflammation and boost the immune system.
3.In case of allergy it helps to detoxify the body and fight infections, bacteria, parasites, microorganisms and harmful toxins.

Clean the house

1.Cleaning of house on regular basis can get rid of many allergy triggers and help you to get relieve from your symptoms.
2.Air filters in your home should be changed or clean often.
3.The places where the pollen can collect should be cleaned like bookshelves, vents, and other places.
4.Weekly vacuum carpets and change pillowcases.
5.Allergens can transfer from your hair to your pillow on a nightly basis so change your pillowcase on a regular basis.