Treat Allergic Rhinitis with Stinging Nettle and Probiotics

Allergic rhinitis is a condition that affects numerous people all over the world. This allergy occurs when you inhale various allergic substances and your immune system starts responding. The most common allergens are grass and tree pollen, but people can also be allergic to pet dander, mold spores or dust mites. If you have a weak immune system or suffer from various other allergies, then you might also be prone to allergic rhinitis. You might suffer from year-round or seasonal allergies and the usual symptoms are swollen eyes, runny nose, repeated sneezing, watery eyes, nasal congestion and itchy nose. In order to recover your quality of life and reduce all those symptoms, you should start using natural remedies.

Saline Water

A saline nasal wash is extremely useful because it can help you remove the mucus and eventually treat allergic rhinitis. When performed regularly, it can greatly improve the allergy symptoms. Mix warm distilled water (2 cups) with baking soda (a pinch) and salt (1 teaspoon). Make use of a nasal bulb to insert this solution in your nostrils. Allow it to get into the mouth and after that blow your nose to eliminate the excess solution and mucus. Repeat the procedure until you get rid of the allergy.

Stinging Nettle

Stinging nettle is a great anti-inflammatory and antihistamine agent and it’s greatly used in alternative medicine. It can treat allergic rhinitis and offer relief from itching, sneezing, coughing and nasal congestion. Use dried stinging nettle leaves (1 tablespoon) and 1 cup of water to prepare a tea. Let the solution steep for about 5 minutes and strain it afterwards. Add honey and consume this tea up to 3 times daily. The healthy food stores also sell stinging nettle supplements that you can take daily for one week. Make sure to consult your doctor before taking these supplements. Young children and pregnant women should not consume nettle.

Vitamin C

This vitamin comes with antihistamine qualities and can significantly reduce allergic rhinitis. At the same time, vitamin C enhances immunity and can prevent further infections. The secret is to consume foods that are rich in vitamin C such as tomatoes, lemons, sprouts, oranges, strawberries, potatoes, broccoli, bell peppers, kiwi and grapefruit. Vitamin C supplements are also available at the healthy food stores.

Probiotics

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a probiotic that can reduce the allergic rhinitis symptoms. Consuming probiotic yogurt regularly is a great choice, as it will also enhance your immunity. You can also opt for probiotic supplements with 1 – 4 billion organisms in a capsule. The treatment should last up to 2 weeks, with 2 pills per day, one in the evening and one in the morning.

Ginger

This plant is a natural antihistamine and it also features immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral properties. It can reduce symptoms such as headaches, cough, runny nose and nasal congestion. Prepare a tea with one cup of hot water, cinnamon (one small piece), cloves (2-3) and grated ginger (1 tablespoon). Let the mixture boil for about 5 minutes and after you strain it, you can add lemon juice and honey. Consume this tea twice a day, especially during the allergy season.