Do you live in Colorado? Do you have allergies? Of course you do!
Are your allergies flaring right now? Whose aren’t! Between the dry climate and the plants, people are consistently prone to having sinus and respiratory irritation in Colorado. Here are some things you can do at home to help with allergies:
Flush your sinuses regularly-- Saline nasal rinses or gels like Ayr Saline Nasal Gel, Neti-pots, or my favorite: XClear- a saline and xylitol combo, are all great at getting rid of the bad bacteria and phlegm that can get stuck in your sinuses. This helps to reduce inflammation.
Clean up your diet and remove dairy. Dairy is like throwing a wet blanket on the fire of your digestive system. Poor digestion leads to slower metabolism and your body not getting the nutrients it needs, as well as an accumulation of inflammation. In Chinese Medicine, we say it generates Dampness. When Dampness accumulates, it turns into Phlegm. By making this simple dietary change, your sinuses and respiratory system can drastically improve.
Use an air filter. We are under constant bombardment of allergens like dust, mold, plants, animals... the list goes on and on. Invest in an air filter to continually cleanse the air around you.
Peppermint Essential oil. Using peppermint essential oil or an immunity blend in a diffuser throughout your home can be really beneficial to continually clear the sinuses and reduce inflammation.
Get Acupuncture!! A combination of acupuncture, cupping, moxa (mugwort burned near the skin) and herbs are a phenomenal way to boost your immune system, support your digestion and regulate your qi to keep your allergies at bay.
Supplements to consider:
*Quercetin has been shown to reduce inflammation in the system. In test tubes, quercetin prevents immune cells from releasing histamines, which are chemicals that cause allergic reactions. As a result, researchers think that quercetin may help reduce symptoms of allergies, including runny nose, watery eyes, hives, and swelling of the face and lips.
*Bromelain is derived from all parts of the pineapple plant, long known for its positive impact on the immune system and reducing inflammation. A pilot study found that bromelain tablets were effective at alleviating swelling, congestion, and other symptoms associated with chronic sinusitis. Study participants were given bromelain daily for a 3-month period.
*D-Hist by Ortho-Molecular Products is a great formula you can ask your acupuncturist to prescribe. This is a combination supplement to assist with histamine response or the chemical response by white blood cells to produce an immune response. It is made up of quecetain, bromelain, stinging nettle leaf, N-A-C and Vitamin C. What a combo! It gives your body everything it needs to reduce the allergic response and inflammation.
Chinese Medicine formulas:
Aller-Ease- ask us how to get this awesome formula! This herbal formula can be used in place of your over-the-counter allergy medicine.
Jade Windscreen (Yu Ping Feng San)- Naturally support your immune system with this classical Chinese herbal formula used to support the strength of your Wei Qi, your body’s defensive Qi.
Bi Yan Pian- Used to support nasal passage health! Clears wind, heat and phlegm from the nasal passages.