Sniffles, sneezing, burning itchy watery eyes, headache, sinus pressure, itchy skin . . . sound familiar? April showers bring May flowers, and with it comes the dreaded allergy symptoms for many.
If traditional anti-histamines aren’t working for you, or if you’d don’t like the side-effects from them, read on for natural allergy relief.
- Diet: Avoiding inflammatory foods such as sugars, gluten, processed foods, and dairy take the burden off your immune system. I recommend starting this a month or so prior to your allergy season.
- Supplements: there are many natural herbal anti-histamines that are available that do not have the same side-effects that conventional anti-histamines can cause (think brain fog, racing heart, jitters or fatigue).
We also use specific probiotics that include strains to break down histamine. Some popular strains of probiotics can actually make allergy symptoms worse. Our programs are designed to pick the most appropriate supplements and herbs for your specific symptoms.
Some examples of supplements and herbs we may use: (please consult with a qualified herbalist or practitioner before starting
a supplement protocol to ensure safety and proper dosing). Contact us with any questions.
– quercetin/bromelain, vitamin C for natural anti-histamine
action
– chinese herbs specifically formulated to address your
symptoms: clear sinus congestion and post-nasal drip, itchiness,
regulate immune system
– stinging nettle
– astragalus
– eucalyptus
– specific strains of probiotics to break down histamine and
support the immune system
– in your kitchen: raw honey, garlic, ginger - Digestive Health: if there is underlying leaky gut or GI inflammation, this will affect our body’s histamine production and immune system. For longer-term allergy relief, if we want to actually heal the underlying causes, gut health MUST be addressed. A comprehensive program is best for gut healing, as the protocols will be personalized for each individual’s unique presentation.
- Hormone Balance: it is not uncommon for certain hormones to make allergy symptoms worse (eg. women often report feeling a worsening of their histamine reactions during certain times of their cycles). Addressing hormone balance and offering the right support during certain times of the cycle can help to alleviate symptom severity and discomfort
- Acupuncture, Acupressure or Acupatching: stimulating specific points on the body has been shown to reduce allergy symptoms, and boost the body’s resilience to environmental stressors and allergens. Side benefits: relaxation, increased stress tolerance, better sleep, improved digestion and mood.
Virtual Acupuncture Option: Point protocols can be created for you after an in-depth consultation and specific Acupatches can be used at home to stimulate the points just like an in-person acupuncture treatment. Patches are worn for 24-36 hours and provide ongoing treatment. Each packet comes with multiple patches for ongoing use. Alternatively, acupressure can be used with no patches needed. (Email or Call for more information, and to see if this may be a good fit for you).
Acupressure Take Home Example for Clearing Sinuses:
Press w/ Gentle Slight Pressure with Clean Fingers on the Points Marked with an X & Hold x30 seconds
You don’t have to suffer with allergies, and you should not have to choose between allergy relief and side-effects from medications. There may be effective support for you that is gentler and addresses the root issues.
If you’d like to learn more about natural allergy relief, contact us for a free consultation.
Book a FREE 15-minute phone or video consultation, click here: REQUEST A CONSULTATION
Work with us ONLINE. All programs are offered in person or via video/phone chats, click here to learn more: WORK WITH US ONLINE
Boston & Brookline Acupuncturist and Health Coach
Virtual Online Health Coach & Acupuncturist