Natural Remedies for Fall Allergies- Weather Channel Segment

It was my great pleasure to speak today representing Atlanta Center for Holistic and Integrative Medicine on the Weather Channel.

I would like to recap in case you may have missed it.

Allergies are  an abnormal immune response to environmental agents such as pollen, dust mites, mold and animal dander.

Holistic health and Ayurveda approaches allergies by building the immune system so that the body  can minimize or deflect the attack.

Here are some things you can do at home:

Vitamin C- from citrus fruits and kale. Studies prove that “Vitamin C” can detoxify the allergen before causing a reaction.

Pineapple- rich in Vit C, pineapple also contains a blend of enzymes one being bromelain which acts as a natural anti-inflammatory.

Bromelain is known to reduce congestion, improve breathing and suppress coughing. 500 mg twice a day in supplement form can be used to combat congestion. Bromelain also aids in digesting proteins so if you  need it for digestive purposes it can be taken before meals; for allergy purposes between meals is recommended. And of course eat  fresh pineapple!

Zinc- Supports normal immune function and helps to heal the tissues in the nasal passages that get damaged from sneezing and blowing the nose . Zinc is found in whole grains, liver, green tea, and poultry. 60mg is recommended daily for allergies.

Neti pot- originated in India from Ayurveda. It’s a small pot that you fill  with warm STERILIZED water with 1/2 tsp   kosher salt or other non-iodized salt to clear the nasal passages. Tap water and distilled water are NOT recommended. After water is boiled then cool for use in neti-pot.

This can be done 3-4 x daily during allergy season or when there is sinus congestion any time of the year.

Eucalyptus oil- acts as an expectorant and decongestant. It loosens phlegm in the respiratory tract. Can be inhaled over pot of boiling water at home or put in vaporizer or aromatherapy diffuser.

Juicing is a way of getting concentrated nutrients quickly into the body. Kale which comes form the crucifer family of veggies is a superfood against allergies. It is believed to aid in fighting allergy symptoms. It is also rich in Vit C.

I like Dr. Taz’s recipe from her new book The 21 Day  Belly Fix- how to heal your gut in just 21 days.

1/2 cup kale

1/2 cup water or juice

lemon , apple and a tsp of honey

Blend together for this sweet recipe. Other kale drink recipes are available in the book.

You can never go wrong adding a green drink to your daily routine.. See Dr. Taz’s book for more options.

Don’t let allergies get you down. They are an opportunity to make your body stronger.

Namaste’

Gedalia