April showers bring May flowers…and allergies. If the blossoming flora has you sniffling, sneezing and itching for relief, try these natural allergy remedies recommended by Certified Holistic Nutritional Consultant, Melanie Mathews.
Quercetin
Found in the skin of onions and apples, this flavonoid is a natural anti-histamine. Several studies have shown that when taken in supplement form it can provide immediate relief for a variety of allergy symptoms.
Bee Pollen
By naturally reducing histamine, bee pollen can be effective for a wide range of allergies and respiratory diseases. It comes in a liquid, pill, powder or granules, but it’s best to get the actual granules that the bees make. Sprinkle them in smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt or granola.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Consuming – or even just inhaling the vapours of – this potent, nutrient filled substance can give relief to allergy sufferers. “The Mother”, the cloudy sediment at the bottom of the bottle, contains fermented bacterial cultures rich in potassium, calcium and magnesium.
Antioxidants
Vitamins A, C, E, selenium and zinc are the essential nutrients that help fight infection, boost immune function and protect against free radical oxidation. One of the best ways to get more antioxidants is to eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, going for as much colour variety as possible. Snack on berries, citrus fruits, dark leafy greens and bell peppers. Sprinkle vitamin C-rich herbs such as cilantro, thyme, basil and parsley in your meals.
Healthy Fats
Omega-3s help fight the inflammation that causes allergy symptoms. Omega-3s cannot be produced by the body so they must be obtained in the diet. Sources include walnuts, chia, flax, hemp and fish.
As always, be sure to consult your health care provider before starting any dietary supplement.