Remedies for Allergies

Although it was common in the past to head straight to the chemist for treatment of allergy symptoms, many people these days prefer to try natural alternatives, often called herbal or folk remedies for allergies.

Amongst these are things like apple cidar vinegar, which has long been used to treat allergy symptoms. It has also been used for treating weight problems and for reducing blood pressure and cholesterol. The vinegar can be applied to the skin or taken orally. If the taste is unpleasant, then just dilute the vinegar and sweeten with a little honey.For those with pets, such as dogs or cats with allergies, the vinegar can be used as a spray or simply just placed in the food. Again, just dilute with a little warm water and spray onto the affected area as required. Common household items such as baking soda and oatmeal paste may also be used in a similar manner.

One of the best remedies for allergies, is avoidance. If you can detect what is causing the allergic reaction you can take steps to avoid the trigger.This is particularly relevant to spring and fall conditions such as asthma and hay fever, and to food intolerances. If you have any doubts when diagnosing the likely causes, then speak with your doctor who can organise a skin prick test to help with identifying the allergens causing your problems. You may even identify some allergies you never expected. Food Intolerance Test Kits are commercially available, and tests for such common allergens as dust mites, mold, dog and cat allergies, are also easy to obtain. You can even purchase these and test yourself at home.

The video shows a skin prick test being performed.

Once you are sure of the cause of the allergy, one of the most successful approaches is to remove or reduce the allergen from your environment. This can be done by cleaning your house and surroundings regularly, perhaps using special filters and vacuums, and by using allergy free detergents, soaps, make up etc. With food intolerance or allergies, be sure to carefully check ingredients in packaged and processed foods, and when eating out check with the restaurant staff.

Some commonly used natural or herbal remedies are lime water with honey, chamomile tea, ginger, thyme, garlic and green tea. Goldenseal inhibits histamines and is available in capsules or as an ointment. Vitamin C and Spirulina also have antihistamine properties, and so may be useful in preventing or reducing allergy symptoms. Another commonly used remedy for allergies is red clover which can be purchased as a tea or as capsules.

Always be careful when combining natural remedies, with pharmaceutical products, or if there are other medical conditions present. If in any doubt, then be sure to seek medical advice before trying the treatments, to make sure of your safety.

Acupuncture is now often used for relief from the symptoms of allergies, and for some sufferers has meant instant relief.

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