Allergies occur when the body mistakenly believes it has come in contact with a detrimental substance. When this happens the immune system goes into overdrive, trying to protect the body by creating antibodies, thus chemicals called histamines are sent out. The histamines cause what are known as allergy symptoms, or allergic reactions, such as itchy eyes, stuffy nasal passages or even hives.
Common allergies include dust, animal dander, pollen and mold. More seriously, a person can go into anaphylactic shock, as an allergic reaction, from a bee sting or from eating foods with peanuts. Symptoms from anaphylactic shock can include vomiting, nausea, skin rash and swollen airways. In severe cases, death can occur. If this type of allergy is suspected, a health care provider should be notified immediately. For less sever cases of allergies, there are natural remedies, producing antihistamines or antiinflamation properties when ingested, that can be used successfully.
Stinging Nettle
This herb is gentle and can be taken daily in assurance that allergy symptoms do not return. It is easily prepared and taken as a strong tea. Make it your morning drink so that it is not forgotten. Purchase tea bags or loose tea at your local health food store. Steep the tea a full 10 minutes. Stinging nettle can also be acquired in tablet form. The recommended dose is 2 to 3 tablets (300 mg each), up to three times per day, as needed. Stinging nettle can interact with certain prescription drugs used for blood thinning and cardio vascular conditions. If you use any of these types of drugs, check with your health care provider before using stinging nettle. Besides relieving allergy symptoms, this herb is known to benefit symptoms from arthritis, muscle pain and urinary tract infections.
Peppermint
Peppermint herb is known to relieve sinus related allergy symptoms quickly. It can be purchased in liquid oil form or as a tea at your local health food store. Place three or four drops of the oil into a humidifier or a cup of warm water. Inhale the steam deeply into your lungs. Alternately, or instead of using the oil, drink a cup of peppermint tea every few hours, as needed to relieve sinus related allergy symptoms.
Skullcap
Skullcap is excellent for preventing allergy symptoms, but is also a good natural relief for asthma. This herb contains natural chemicals that interfere with the constriction of the bronchial tubes. You will find different varieties of skullcap at your local health food store. Choose Asian skullcap, or scutellaria. Take the dosage of one capsule up to three times a day.
Cacao
Unprocessed cacao offers many health benefits, including allergy symptom relief. The dark chocolate in your grocery store is of minimal benefit. Ask for the unprocessed, raw cacao at your health food store. However, it has a bitter taste. In order to add it to your diet you may need to stir it in soy or nut milk. In addition, cacao is beneficial in heart health and blood pressure reduction. It contains magnesium, which is found to be lacking in the American diet. Magnesium is important as a stress reliever, relaxant for muscles and the building of strong teeth and bones.