Saturday, April 5, 2008

Allergy Help

From the April 2008 Newsletter of the Health Nut, a natural foods store in Susanville, California:
This is just a quick note to let you know what's new here at the Health Nut. We're getting ready for allergy season this month. Rather than take allergy drugs with some pretty scary side effects, here are some healthy alternatives that really work: [Stinging] Nettle (capsules and tea), Quercetin (a bioflavonoid with antihistamine-like qualities) Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B-5) really works for a lot of people, [including Keith Volberg who most of you know here as the resident health expert], histaminum (homeopathic, works well if you start taking it now). There are several other homeopathic remedies that help with allergic symptoms when they are full-blown. Local honey and bee pollen work very well, too. We've had some good feedback on our local Schall's Honey. Customers have told us that their allergies have virtually cleared up using a spoonful or two of our local honey each day. 04-02-08
www.HEALTHNUTLASSEN.COM

I have had excellent results (for myself and others) with Stinging Nettle herb over the years, it dries up the sinuses without any of the side-effects typical of antihistamines such as drowsiness. Plus it is a nourishing herb filled with minerals. I also know many folks who have had great success with Quercetin (found in onions, apples, tea, red grapes, citrus, broccoli, cherries and cranberries to name a few). It can be even more effective when blended with bromelain, an enzyme in pineapple. Though I am not familiar with using pantothenic acid for allergies here is one article from the Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients on the topic, Pantothenic acid and allergy relief.

Using herbs and supplements is just one avenue for treating seasonal allergies. Since allergies are a sign of the immune system being overwhelmed by the environment, take care to reduce stress or practice stress management skills such as meditation, guided imagery, yoga, and choosing a well-balanced whole foods diet. Drink plenty of fresh pure water, get plenty of rest, and include moderate exercise in your lifestyle as well.

A daily self-care program such as Donna Eden's Energy Medicine will also support the systems of the body and likely reduce allergies. Be Well! Janis

04-16-08

Holistic approaches that may be helpful

A warm salt-water solution poured through the nose may offer some relief from both allergic and infectious sinusitis. A ceramic pot, known as a “neti lota” pot, makes this procedure easy. Alternatively, a small watering pot with a tapered spout may be used. Fill the pot with warm water and add enough salt so the solution tastes like tears. Stand over a sink, tilt your head far to one side so your ear is parallel to the floor, and pour the solution into the upper nostril, allowing it to drain through the lower nostril. Repeat on the other side. This procedure may be performed two or three times a day. courtesy vitaminshoppe.com


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