Spring is arriving, at long last. After a winter as brutal as this one, we are excited to greet it with open arms! Spring brings beautiful budding trees, tender shoots of bright green leaves and grass, and colorful, fragrant flowers—and it also brings potentially miserable allergies. Here are a few simple things you can do to prepare for allergy season and keep those irritating symptoms at bay.
Neti Pot: I highly recommend using a neti pot to flush away debris that the sinuses and nasal cavities collect during the day and through the night. Using a neti pot with a saline solution in the morning and night will wash those irritants out and hopefully prevent irritation, swelling, pressure, mucous and phlegm build-up in the sinuses. We sell nasal washes (the Rhinohorn) at Element and they are also very easy to find at many pharmacies. Check out the Rhinohorn video if you would like to know more about using a Rhinohorn.
Acupuncture and Herbs: Acupuncture treatments and herbs can help minimize and eliminate allergies and allergy symptoms by boosting the immune response and reducing inflammation. If you are prone to allergies, it is beneficial to start treatment before these symptoms begin. Herbs can be recommended on an individual basis, in accordance to the conditions experienced during the particular allergy season.
Diet: Avoid dairy products during episodes of congestion and nasal irritation, as it may increase the production of mucous and phlegm. For many, dairy can aggravate allergies, sinus pressure, and congestion. Eat plenty of green, leafy vegetables and make sure you are drinking enough water. Coconut water can also be beneficial for hydration. Some find local honey also effective in minimizing allergy symptoms.
Nasya Treatments: An effective Ayurvedic treatment used for allergy relief and nasal clearing, Nasya helps clear and lubricate the nasal passages. An all-natural Ayurvedic herbal oil is dropped into each nostril after the sinuses are steamed with water. These treatments can also be done in the comfort of your own home are also available at Element on Saturdays.
Exercise: Exercise is important for lung health. Exercise allows the movement of blood and lymph. It also creates contraction and relaxation of the lungs and diaphragm, aiding in the elimination of mucous and phlegm that can trap external pathogens and allergens causing inflammation. Finally, exercise is great for boosting the immune system.
Taking simple measures can ensure that spring stays sweet and lovely, rather than a source of irritation and misery!
-Christina Morris is a licensed acupuncturist, herbalist, and founder of Element Natural Healing Arts