Natural Cures For Allergies
An allergy is basically a problem with the immune system – the job of the immune system is to fight pathogens and tumor cells, thus maintaining the health of a person. Sometimes however, for a variety of reasons, the immune system malfunctions and reacts strongly to harmless substances. This leads to any of a number of possible symptoms, including rashes, digestive problems, nasal congestion, and rhinitis. Traditionally, the only way to handle an allergy has been to avoid the allergen – the substance that causes the negative reaction. An individual may be allergic to a handful of substances, and all contact with these substances should be stopped. Recently, medications have been developed to cure allergies by using a kind of vaccination therapy. Other medications are also able to block the immune response following exposure to an allergen.
The simplest, cheapest, and most effective method however is still complete avoidance. Strictly speaking, this is not a cure for an allergy, but it is probably the best way to manage an allergy. In addition, there are a number of home remedies and natural cures to manage the symptoms of an allergic reaction, when avoidance has failed or is impossible.
Symptomatic treatment depends on the symptoms of course – as mentioned, allergic reactions can be of many types. Reactions to food allergens cannot always be treated – if consuming a food you are allergic to has resulted in a stomach upset, you will simply have to wait till your body gets rid of the allergen. However, if the allergy results in hives or eczema, it can be treated, preferably by using a cold compress. A good way to do this is to fill a plastic bag with crushed ice and hold it against the inflamed or swollen skin. This can of course also be used for other allergies that cause a skin reaction. It is important to remember however, that along with external swelling there may also be internal swelling. For example, the airways may become swollen and obstruct breathing. This cannot be treated using home remedies or natural cures, and therefore if you experience symptoms of breathlessness, you should get prompt medical attention.
If your allergies causes nasal congestion or a runny nose, which is usually known as hay fever, then steaming and nasal irrigation are the best treatments. In addition, you should drink plenty of water, so as to keep the mucus thin and flowing.
