American television programs of the 1950s taught simple axioms such as Clear Fences Make Good Neighbors and If You Don’t Have Anything Nice To Say, Don’t Say Anything At All.
In that simple golden era, severe allergies were extremely rare among
the population, so something like a potentially lethal bee sting
provided more than enough material for a thirty-minute comedic episode.
Since then, television has become less wholesome, ethics and
plotlines more complex, and severe allergies more common. In fact, the
National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that 60 million
Americans suffer from allergies, and the CDC and the National Institute
of Allergy and Infectious Diseases both report that the number of
Americans with allergies has been on the rise for the last ten years.
Various
aspects of the modern lifestyle could be to blame. Some say climate
change due to global warming has elongated blooming seasons, creating
especially intense periods when different species’ pollen release
periods overlap. A Harvard University study suggests that trees may
also be releasing more pollen in response to increased levels of carbon
dioxide. Increased indoor and outdoor pollution, stress, and diets high
in processed foods and low in fiber may contribute to higher incidence
of allergies. Finally, some follow the “hygiene hypothesis,” that our
increased use of anti-bacterial products has worked all too well:
everything in our homes and offices is so free of germs nowadays that
our bodies are effectively defenseless against newer, nastier bacteria.
Whatever the cause, as the number of allergy sufferers rises,
more and more are opting for naturopathic treatments, and turning away
from the quick fixes promised by allergy pills or shots. Some choose
naturopathy to avoid irritating side effects. Others have found that
homeopathic approaches treat symptoms as well as the underlying causes
of their allergies. Scientists aren’t yet sure why naturopathic methods
can often achieve similar, if not better results, than traditional
western medicine, but it may have something to do with the breadth of
the naturopathic approach, which considers emotional, mental, and
whole-body health, rather than limiting treatment to isolated symptoms.
Unfortunately,
without enlisting a professional, it’s not always easy to find
naturopathic treatments for specific allergies. To help our readers,
we’ve compiled the following treatment information for various
allergies.
POLLENS
Whether you know your special
pollen allergen or simply explain your rasping cough and red eyes as
“hay fever,” homeopathic methods can help. Many naturopathic experts
recommend increasing your fish intake because omega-3 fatty oils have
been shown to reduce allergy symptoms. Walnuts, flax seeds, and dark
leafy greens are alternative sources of omega-3; a daily supplements are
also an option. Try naturopathic eyedrops to naturally soothe itchy,
red eyes. Many turn to acupuncture and/or herbs, including nettle and
green tea, to knock out their allergies. Flushing the nasal passages
regularly with a mixture of warm water and a pinch each of baking soda
and sea salt is also a common treatment. Use a spray bottle, nose
dropper, or neti pot for application. For a special treat, add a drop
of soothing eucalyptus or invigorating tea tree essential oil. Finally, a
few precautionary steps, such as regularly cleaning and showering after
pollen exposure, could reduce your symptoms.
More Homeopathic Remedies:
Arsen Alb, Euphrasia, and Pulsatilla. Essential oils and other
applications for each may be found online or at natural food stores.
Molds, Dust Mites and Animal Dander
If
you suffer from allergies, your home can be your worst enemy. After
all, outside pollens and molds are reduced during cold winter months,
but indoor allergens can thrive year-round, an especially nasty prospect
given that molds, dust mites, and animal dander are the trigger for
many symptoms of asthma. Before you medicate, create a clean, dry
environment—without skin dander or moisture, allergens can’t survive
long. Aim to eliminate as many breeding grounds—such as unnecessary
rugs, pillows, and cloth window treatments—as possible. Commit to
washing your bedding and remaining rugs in very hot water once a week,
along with stuffed animals. Also consider keeping pets out of the
bedroom, so that their allergy-inducing dander can’t become embedded
where you spend half of your life. Last, mattress covers, sometimes
called mattress protectors or mattress encasements, are an impenetrable
line of defense against allergens, as they effectively block allergens
from reaching you and their food supply (your dead skin). These same
encasements can be purchased to protect your pillows and crib mattresses
as well.
More Homeopathic Remedies: Homeopaths often
recommend Arsen Alb, Sabadilla, American Stinging Nettles or Perilla to
relieve symptoms associated with dust mite allergies. If, after a clean
environment is created in and around your bed, allergies still seem to
persist at home, consider asking your doctor or naturopathic expert
about taking these supplements.
http://article-dashboard.com/Article/Allergy-Sufferers-Find-Help-Through-Naturopathic-Means/4361
No comments:
Post a Comment