By Anna Lubaszka, Classical Homeopath
If you have ragweed allergies, you’re all too familiar with uncontrollable sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose, itchy & inflamed eyes, nose and throat, watery eyes, and coughing. You probably don’t experience all of the above symptoms, but nonetheless, even one of them can affect your life during this season. If you suffer from severe ragweed allergies, you may also experience headaches, asthma attacks, chronic sinusitis and disturbed sleep.
HERE IS WHAT’S HAPPENING…
The pollen released from a ragweed plant interacts with the immune system and, for those with this allergy, the body overreacts, identifying the pollen as an invader. This leads to the release of histamine as well as other chemicals which then leads to the typical symptoms listed above.
HOW HOMEOPATHY HELPS
Homeopathy works well for allergies and it does so in a unique way. It ‘treats the person’, meaning that although 10 people may be experiencing ragweed allergies, each person will require a different remedy based on their unique symptom presentation. The correct remedy will alleviate the symptoms and will also help make sure that future episodes are less frequent and less intense.
In homeopathy, symptoms are used as guides that lead to the most appropriate remedy – it does not suppress the symptoms. For example, someone who presents with watery and burning eyes, watery nasal discharge, intolerable itchy eyelids, and sneezing may benefit from the remedy Ambrosia. It is advised to have a proper homeopathic consultation in order to determine the correct homeopathic remedy for you.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TODAY
In the meantime there are things you can do right now that will help you during this allergy season.
Increase your intake of Vitamin C which boosts your immune system and acts as a natural antihistamine. Include grapefruit, kiwi, tangerines, papaya, parsley, kale and broccoli in your daily diet.
Eat apples. They contain a bioflavonoid called quercetin which has natural anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine properties.
Eat onions and garlic. They are loaded with sulphur containing anti-oxidant which helps reduce symptoms and boosts the immune system. The phytonutrients in onions and garlic also help reduce runny nose and other allergy symptoms.
Consume foods high in magnesium such as squash, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, black beans, almonds and brown rice. According to immunologists, magnesium helps to ease breathing and provides allergy relief.
Include Omega-3 Fatty Acids in your diet as they have anti-inflammatory properties and boost your immune system. Great sources are walnuts and freshly ground flax seeds (add them to your oatmeal and salads)
Time your outdoor activities. The best time is in the morning, as this is when the pollen count is at its lowest.
Are your symptoms driving you nuts and you’re looking for personalized advice? Book in for a homeopathic consultation here.
