Sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, itchy throat? These are among the most common seasonal allergy symptoms and a sign your immune system is over-reacting to environmental allergens. Pollen, dander, mold and grasses are a few common triggers that cause a histamine reaction. An increase in the number of environmental allergens coupled with immune system hypersensitivities means that allergy symptoms can occur during any season and last all year-round.
If you notice your body's histamine response kick in you can noticeably reduce or eliminate the allergic reaction using seasonal allergy support and work to discover any deeper underlying root cause that may exist. There are many well-studied therapeutics that can support the immune system as it fights off allergens. Read on to learn more about some key natural ingredients.
Vitamin C has been widely studied and known for its role in supporting overall immune health. A study in the journal Nutrients affirms it as an essential micro nutrient capable of supporting a variety of immune challenges. As a natural antihistamine, vitamin C can reduce allergy-related symptoms through its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, according to a study in the Journal of International Medical Research. This superstar vitamin promotes balanced mucous levels, maintaining a healthy respiratory tract and sinuses. Foods rich in vitamin C include, citrus fruits, mixed peppers and berries.
Bromelain is another powerful ingredient to include in your seasonal allergy support arsenal. An enzyme that helps the body digest proteins, bromelain is more widely known as an effective digestion aid. But this valuable compound also has the ability to maintain a healthy inflammatory response, according to an Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine study. This beneficial enzyme can help fight allergic sensitivities by reducing swelling and thinning mucus. Pineapples are rich in this compound and a great food source to incorporate.
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is often incorporated for seasonal allergy support. Derived from the amino acid L-cysteine, NAC can help improve respiratory tract imbalances by thinning the mucus that builds up when allergens are present. NAC has been shown to improve sinus issues and help the body clear congested airways from inhaled pathogens, as noted in this Free Radical Research study.
Stinging nettle is a plant rich in vitamins, minerals, polyphenols and antioxidants. As a go-to remedy to relieve allergy symptoms, its therapeutic properties appear to improve histamine levels and support the inflammatory response, as noted in a study by Phytotherapy Research. Its nutrient-packed leaves and roots also contain antioxidants, bolstering this plant's ability to support seasonal allergy reactions.
A herb native to India and Southeast Asia, turmeric is used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Its therapeutic properties are derived from the component curcumin, widely researched for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. A Molecular Nutrition and Food Research study shows how turmeric helps maintain a healthy inflammatory response by blocking the release of histamines in the body. Turmeric has also shown to increase antioxidant enzymes that help correct allergy-induced imbalances.
Allergens are prevalent in both nature and our homes, fortunately, there are many ways you can support an unpleasant response. While the best remedy for allergies is avoidance -- it is not always possible. Identifying and diminishing the source in your home can help, but what about environmental allergens? Here the use of proven natural remedies that strengthen the immune system's defense and help mitigate the effects of an allergic response can provide the support you need. Utilizing ingredients including vitamin C, N-acetyl cysteine, bromelain, turmeric and stinging nettle in your immune and allergy symptom solutions have shown to be effective.
