Allergies or allergic diseases are a number of diseases that are caused by hypersensitivity reactions of the immune system in response to the environmental agents. Environmental agents can be anything such as dust, pollen, dander etc. Allergies include allergic asthma, hay fever, food allergy, dust allergy, allergic dermatitis, anaphylactic reaction etc. Most of the people suffer from seasonal allergies due to the severity of the weather condition. Some allergies are so severe that these require advice from doctors or medical health care professionals. Some allergies are so mild that these can be easily managed by anyone at home.
Beware of the Air
Protection is always better than cure. Breathing in the dirty and polluted environment may cause troublesome symptoms of allergy. Sometimes, dust itself is the allergen for some people. If you observe any allergens in the environment, then protect yourself as much as possible. Spend as little time as possible outdoor. While going outside, wear the surgical mask in order to protect yourself from the allergens. Tobacco smoke is also a potent irritant of the upper respiratory tract, therefore, do not become a passive smoking partner. On a windy dust day, also, wear a pair of glasses to protect your eyes as well.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar is a fermented product synthesized from crushed, aged apples. Apple Cider Vinegar is an old remedy that is used for a variety of health conditions. It is equally effective against heartburn and allergies. It decreases the mucous production. It also causes cleansing of lymphatic system of the body to make it ready for reuse against the allergens. Mix one tablespoon of unfiltered, organic apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink this glass. Repeat the process 3 times a day. This helps to relief the acute symptoms of allergic reactions and also prevents further allergy attack when you taking the apple cider vinegar.
Steam Your Nose
Breathing steam can be useful for allergic patients because it gives soothing effect due to decongestion of the nasal cavity and washing of the irritant allergens. Boil water in a pot and pour it into a bowl, lean over it draping your head with a towel. Breathe in the steam gently for 5-10 minutes. Peppermint steam can also be a good choice because of its excellent decongestant properties.
Use Saline Solution
Irrigate the nasal cavity with saline solution (salt water). It gives a soothing effect to the nose. It removes the allergens that cause inflammation in the nasal cavity. Saline solution also washes away the inflammatory cells that are migrated due to the allergens. Saline solution can be purchased at any medical store and also can be prepared at home by mixing one teaspoon of salt to the fresh warm water with some baking soda.
Wash Your Hair
If you are working outdoor for a long time during the day, then wash your hair properly because pollens or allergens stick to hair and may fall into eyes or into the nose. If you wake at midnight suffering from symptoms of acute allergy after spending many hours outdoor, then immediately take warm water bath as it washes most of the allergens that are collected during the day time.
Take Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea contains some essential oils that act as decongestants, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Therefore, allergic patients should use peppermint tea. To make peppermint tea, take one ounce of dried peppermint leaves in a quarter jar and fill 2/3rd of the jar with water and boil it. Steam of the peppermint tea can also be inhaled as well. After boiling the water for 4-5 minutes, let it cool and drink it. Repeat the process 2-3 times a day.
Use Nettle Leaves
Nettle leaf also another excellent decongestant because of its antihistamines like properties because it prevents the natural production of histamine by the body. Nettle leaves can be used with other herbs like with peppermint to obtain excellent results. Homemade herbal tea of nettle and peppermint leaves can be prepared.
In the case of food allergy, dietary modification plays an important than all other measures. Dietary modification helps in healing of gut.