Natural Cures for Allergies to Relieve Sneezing and Congestion

You can use natural cures for allergies to reduce sneezing and nasal congestion. According to Mayo Clinic, allergies occur when foreign substances trigger a response from the immune system. This happens because the immune system is building up defenses against something it perceives as being harmful to the body even though it is not. This causes the body to release histamines which cause the allergy symptoms.

Allergies can affect the nasal passages and sinus, causing congestion, watery eyes and a runny nose. An allergy can also cause reactions from the skin and lead to conditions such as psoriasis and acne. A natural allergy remedy can help manage this condition by reducing the symptoms.

Scientific studies suggest the herb butterbur can be an effective allergy remedy. According to a study published in the British Medical Journal, butterbur can reduce allergy symptoms just as well as antihistamine medications. Researchers found that taking one tablet of the herb four times a day can relieve hay fever without causing drowsiness.

Essential oils can be used as natural cures for allergies. Pour some water into a pot. Turn the stove off after the water starts boiling. Add 3 drops of rosemary and eucalyptus oils into the pot. Then mix in 2 drops each of tea tree and myrtle essential oils. Put a towel on the back of your head and lean over the water and inhale the steam for 15 minutes.          

Acupuncture is becoming more popular as an allergy remedy. In 2008, a study in Germany found that acupuncture relieves allergy symptoms better that many traditional treatments. Acupuncture involves the placement points at various points in the body to promote healing. In treating allergies, acupuncture works by preventing the immune system from being over active.

Quercetin is a natural substance which prevents the body from releasing histamines, which cause inflammation and leads to allergy symptoms.  Quercetin stabilizes cells and is naturally found in fruits and vegetables. It is also an ingredient in some wines.

Freeze dried nettles can also help bring allergy relief for people who are experiencing nasal congestion. Another option is to make a tonic combining a saline nasal spray with goldenseed. The saline will clear out pollen and reduce mucous. The goldenseed will act as a natural astringent. It also has anti-bacterial properties.

The hub titled Sinus Headache Remedies for Natural Relief offers more information about natural remedies which can relieve sneezing and congestion.