Spring is in the air, causing allergies, runny nose or nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes, skin issues or respiratory conditions like asthma. We may have a simple solution for changing the response in your body, and it is not taking the usually prescribed medicines from the local chemist. With pregnancy, it can be difficult to find a solution. Here are a few suggestions for you to take on board to create a change in the way you feel.
GINGER
We know ginger is excellent for relieving nausea and joint pain; however, it can also be a natural remedy. Ginger contains anti-inflammatory phytochemical compounds and antioxidants, which help seasonal allergies.
TUMERIC
Tumeric is the go-to for anti-inflammatory issues due to the active ingredient curcumin. Curcumin has also been shown to reduce the symptoms of swelling and irritation that can be felt if you suffer from allergic rhinitis.
FRUITS WITH HIGH VITAMIN C
Food with a high vitamin C content can ease the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, the inflammation within the nose that causes it to feel blocked. The irritation can come from the pollen in plants that are in bloom, which can affect the upper respiratory tract. Adding these fruits to your daily consumption can increase your vitamin C intake – oranges, grapefruit, lemons, limes, and berries.
QUERCETIN FROM ONIONS
Quercetin is a natural antihistamine and a natural bioflavonoid found in onions. It can reduce symptoms of allergies, with raw red onions having the highest concentration. Both white onions and spring onions also contain quercetin. Onions contain many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, so adding them to your diet dramatically reduces allergies.
TOMATOES
Tomatoes are high in vitamin C and lycopene, both antioxidant compounds that help with inflammation. Lycopene is best eaten for its natural qualities; adding them to your cooking is beneficial.
BEE POLLEN
Bee pollen helps to prevent allergic reactions, as it contains a mixture of enzymes, nectar, honey, flower pollen and wax.
LAVENDER
Lavender is a standard go-to for reducing inflammation in the body, and it reduces inflammation, promotes sleep and aids in reducing anxiety. If you have allergies, this could be an oil you can diffuse within your home.
ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture is commonly used to treat allergies and respiratory conditions, working with the lungs to change the reaction that causes inflammation in the body and skin issues. Rebalancing the body’s systems and enhancing the immune system are ways in which acupuncture can help. Facial acupuncture, commonly used for beautifying the skin is also used to reduce nasal inflammation, headache, skin issues and facial pain. Herbal medicine is also available to treat allergies.
Melinda Webb is a Dr Traditional Chinese medicine, Buteyko Breathwork Instructor, Calmbirth Educator and Doula.
