Natural & At-home Allergy Remedies

Written by: Reilly Edmonds

*This post includes affiliate links.

Allergies are a common and often frustrating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The term “allergy” typically refers to reactions mediated by the IgE (Immunoglobulin E) antibody of the immune system. Individuals with allergic hypersensitivity are predisposed to produce IgE antibodies against common environmental allergens.

These reactions can manifest as runny nose, sneezing, coughing, eczema, food allergies, or asthma, among other conditions. The immune system’s response is shaped by both genetic predisposition and environmental exposures, particularly during early life when neonates transition from the limited environmental exposure in utero to the colonization of the skin, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract by various bacteria and fungi from our food and environment, which help form our microbiome.

Allergy development has been linked to a variety of factors, including obesity, lifestyle choices, pre- and postnatal maternal psychological stress, medications, occupational exposures, and chemical pollutants. These influences, along with the degree of host response, geographic location, and socioeconomic status, all play a role in determining whether an individual may develop allergies and how they respond to allergens. 

Given the complexity of these contributing factors, it is difficult to pinpoint a singular cause of allergy development. Therefore, it is important to approach allergy treatment holistically, incorporating diet, lifestyle changes, stress reduction, and symptom management.

Dietary Modification

Certain foods can either exacerbate or alleviate allergy symptoms. For instance, a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fatty fish can help reduce the body’s inflammatory response to allergens.

• Quercetin: Found in apples, onions, and berries, quercetin is a natural antihistamine that can help reduce allergic reactions.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These are found in fish like salmon and flaxseeds, and they help reduce inflammation in the body.
• Probiotics: A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for a balanced immune system. Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut can support gut health and potentially reduce allergy symptoms.
• Magnesium-Rich Foods: Magnesium helps reduce inflammation and stress, while also regulating blood pressure, nerve transmission, and insulin metabolism. Foods high in magnesium include nuts (almonds & cashews), legumes, fiber-rich whole grains, leafy greens, and fruit.
• Vitamin C-Rich Foods: Vitamin C enhances the immune system, strengthening it against allergies. Foods high in Vitamin C include oranges, broccoli, strawberries, and red peppers.

Supplements

Several herbs and supplements have natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage allergy symptoms.

• Butterbur: This herb has shown promise in studies as an effective treatment for hay fever and other allergic conditions. It works by blocking the production of histamine, the chemical responsible for allergy symptoms.
• Stinging Nettle: Often used as a natural antihistamine, stinging nettle can be taken as a tea, tincture, or supplement to help reduce sneezing and itching.
• Turmeric: Known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can help soothe inflamed airways and reduce allergic reactions.

Dr. Maltz’s favorite allergy supplement, Natural D-Hist®, includes a blend of flavonoids, antioxidants, proteolytic enzymes, and botanicals designed to provide comprehensive support for seasonal challenges caused by common environmental allergens. The formula consists of quercetin, bromelain, stinging nettle leaf, and N-acetyl cysteine. This supplement can be ordered via Fullscript or Amazon.

Lifestyle and Stress Reduction

Stress is a well-known trigger for a variety of health issues, including allergies. High stress levels can weaken the immune system, making the body more prone to allergic reactions. Additionally, managing environmental pollutants can help reduce symptoms.

• Nasal rinses: A Neti-Pot or nasal irrigation system can also be used to rinse debris or mucus from the nasal cavity to relieve allergy symptoms. Saline is used to avoid irritation and reduce inflammation. Amazon links for these products are included here: Neti-Pot and Nasal Irrigation System. 
• Yoga: Regular yoga practice can help reduce stress, improve respiratory function, and strengthen the immune system, all of which can help manage allergy symptoms.
• Meditation: Mindfulness meditation can lower stress levels and reduce the severity of allergic reactions by promoting relaxation and balance in the body.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture has been shown to reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis and improve the quality of life for allergy sufferers.
• Air Purifiers: Using an air purifier with a HEPA filter can help remove pollen, dust mites, and pet dander from the air, making your indoor environment more comfortable.
• Essential Oils: Oils like eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint can be used in diffusers or as part of cleaning solutions to help purify the air and reduce allergens.
• Regular Cleaning: Frequent vacuuming, dusting, and washing of bedding can help minimize exposure to common allergens like dust mites and pet dander.

By integrating diet, lifestyle changes, stress reduction techniques, and targeted supplements into your daily routine, you may find relief from allergy symptoms, especially during this time of year, and improve your overall quality of life. If you have any questions about integrative approaches to treating your allergies or are considering starting a new supplement, book an appointment with one of our providers today!

Resources

1. Baylor Scott & White Health. (n.d.). The best foods to help you fight allergies. Retrieved August 21, 2024, from https://www.bswhealth.com/blog/the-best-foods-to-help-you-fight-allergies#:~:text=Quercetin%20is%20found%20in%20other,inflammatory%2C%20antioxidant%20and%20antiviral%20properties
2. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). (n.d.). Butterbur. Retrieved August 21, 2024, from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/butterbur#:~:text=Butterbur%20may%20cause%20allergic%20reactions,the%20child’s)%20health%20care%20provider
3. West, C. E., Jenmalm, M. C., & Prescott, S. L. (2015). The gut microbiota and its role in the development of allergic disease: A wider perspective. Clinical and Experimental Allergy, 45(4), 798-813. https://doi.org/10.1111/cea.12545
4. Licciardi, P. V., Ververis, K., & Voskresensky, M. (2014). Immunomodulatory effects of nutrients, foods, and diets in allergy management: A systematic review of the evidence. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 133(5), 1071-1081. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaci.2014.03.001
5. Rothenberg, M. E., & Hogan, S. P. (2006). The eosinophil. Annual Review of Immunology, 24, 147-174. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.immunol.24.021605.090720