It is the season! Sneezing, runny and congested noses, clogged sinuses, itchy and watery eyes, skin itching, rashes… these allergy symptoms abound in this season of pollens and molds. All around the Midwest, allergy sufferers are dodging fields of ragweed, corn and soybean harvests, and other types of allergens. And while the best allergy prevention is always avoiding triggers, that isn’t always practical.
Here are three tips to help you through the rest of the allergy season:
1. Establish or maintain a healthy immune system.
Did you know that 70-90% of your immune system is in your gut? When you have the proper amount and types of gut bacteria (the good guys), things go much better! Eating a diet low in sugar and flour, and adding more veggies and fruit is the first step. If you tend to have year-round allergy symptoms, you likely have a food intolerance and gut inflammation.
2. Get an air purifier for your home.
If you aren’t able to get a full-home air purifier, it’s most important to have one in the bedroom. These devices can help remove contaminants from the room and provide relief from constant exposure to pollen.
3. Try essential oils.
Of course the store shelves are full of over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays, and eye drops. There are several choices in the prescription drug arena as well. I prefer to have people try a plant-based approach. Often essential oils can help. Use 2 drops each of peppermint/lavender/lemon essential oils twice per day. These can be used on the bottoms of feet, or adults may take internally. If used on children dilute the oils in coconut oil. For more information on essential oils, follow Restyle Your Life with Lisa (Lisa Herd with doTerra) on Facebook. There are also some herbal blends that work well. They come in capsule form and I carry them in my office.
If you are interested in a personalized plan to treat your allergies, please call for an appointment: 765-530-8008.