Is It That Time of Year Again? … Seasonal Allergies Part 2

Last week, we started off by covering the first half of the top studied natural allergy remedies. This week, we will cover the second half of the list. Are you ready?:

• Stinging Nettle:  has a rich history of medicinal use dating back to medieval Europe, where it was used as a diuretic to relieve people of joint pain and fluid retention. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, studies suggest that stinging nettle can effectively treat a wide range of health concerns including: (link)
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Benign prostatic hyperplasia
  • Hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
  • Joint pain, sprain and strains
  • Insect bites

  Research has specifically shown that stinging nettle leaf naturally controls histamines, which is the reason a growing number of doctors recommend taking a freeze-dried preparation, tea or tincture before hay fever season begins.

• Eucalyptus Oil:  A study evaluated the effect that various essential oils had on killing highly allergic house mites and found that eucalyptus oil ranked amongst some of the most potent. Essential oils achieve this effect by  reducing inflammation and improving detoxification of harmful bacteria, parasites, microorganisms and toxins that can trigger an attack.
• Frankincense Oil:  In a study published by Phytotherapy Research, when mice took 1–10 milligrams of frankincense orally, it was discovered that multiple levels of their immune systems were stimulated. (link) This means that frankincense has powerful effects when it comes to supporting the immune system. To implement frankincense oil into your natural health regimen, simply rub frankincense behind your ears and on your chest several times per day, or diffuse frankincense essential oil in your home and office for about three hours daily.
• SBO Probiotics: New mainstream knowledge shows a correlation between a strong immune system and a healthy gut. More than 80 percent of your immune function is stored in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. So, it’s no surprise that research continues to indicate a connection between probiotic use and reduced allergy risk. (link) Probiotics are beneficial “good bacteria” that live inside your GI tract and help defend against infections, viruses, allergies and more. They are so effective that a study published in the journal Pediatrics discovered that women who regularly take probiotics during pregnancy significantly reduce their child’s risk of developing allergies. (link)

I hope your found this short series helpful. The options are diverse, so there is likely a remedy in this list that will meet your needs. When appropriate, be sure to start your allergy remedy soon, since many of them call for use to begin prior to allergy season. Here’s to less allergy symptoms and less over the counter medication use and side effects. Welcome spring!