Posted by Danielle Downs on May.07, 2009

©iStockphoto.com - pushlama

Last week, GreenDivaMom discussed saline solutions for seasonal allergies. Now, we turn to nutritional and herbal methods for relieving seasonal allergies.

Nettle. Also called Stinging Nettle, this leaf is terribly irritating to the skin when encountered in the woods. The leaves have serrated edges that can cause abrasions. The leaves and stems are covered with both non-stinging and stinging hairs. The tips of these hairs come off when touched, transforming the hair into a needle that will inject several chemicals such as acetylcholine and histamine.

Stinging nettle inoculates the body against histamine when taken internally. Supplements are typically vegetable capsules filled with the powdered leaves. Dosage varies by the individual and by supplement manufacturer. A high quality organic supplement will be free of preservatives and stabilizers. One caplet twice daily is an ideal dosage to work from. If your allergies are more severe, two caplets twice daily can boost your natural immune response even more.

Licorice. This cool soothing herb is perfect for a sore throat. It is a “yin” herb that cools the body according to Chinese medicine. Incorporating yin plants into the diet is essential for maintaining an alkaline pH, improving overall health and immunity. Licorice coats mucous membranes that are irritated by pollen allergies to protect them from the allergen, help them shed particulates, and sooth damage to speed healing. Licorice tea is delicious hot or cold. Steep 2 tablespoons dried licorice root to 4 cups of boiling water. Always steep herbs in a covered container. Strain and drink or store in the refrigerator and enjoy as a cold beverage throughout the day.

Golden Seal. Another yin herb that will help purify the blood. This herb is wonderful taken internally in a capsule supplement for up to 6 weeks. Strong anti-biotic herbs should not be taken as a regular daily supplement for more than 6 weeks with 3 to 6 weeks off before starting the supplement schedule again. Golden seal is available in tincture and powder forms that blend well into a neti wash solution. This is an ideal method for relieving and curing sinus infections. The flavor can be bitter, but rest assured the golden seal is good for you! Mix ¼ teaspoon dried powder or one dropper full of non-alcohol based tincture into your normal neti wash solution. Use morning and night for duration of infection.

Local honey. Honey includes the pollens we’re allergic to and thus inoculates us against much of the histamine reaction. Honey should be eaten raw always. Drizzle honey over fruit, rice, toast, etc. Honey should not be given to infants, especially under one year of age. Many doctors recommend waiting til age two or beyond before introducing honey into the diet.

Eat raw foods. The body is able to eliminate wastes best when you eat plenty of fiber. Also, raw foods contain intact enzymes that are essential to balancing the body systems. Fruits like papaya are especially good sources of natural enzymes that will help your body break down toxins and histamines.

Avoid dairy and mucous causing foods. Lactose intake can cause mucous to thicken because most people of European decent have some level of digestive intolerance. Essentially, most Americans are allergic to lactose as some level. Avoid making your body work harder than it has to and refrain from dairy foods during

*When beginning any herbal therapy, consult with your healthy care practitioner to avoid contraindications for pregnancy, nursing, and prescription medications.

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Posted under Detox For Health, Health & Fitness.