What does August mean to you?
For some it's vacation season, for others it's the end of summer. But for some of my patients, August is the beginning of real torment. All because of ragweed…
August and September are the peak blooming season of this plant and, consequently, months of suffering for people allergic to its pollen.
Ragweed (ambrosia) is one of the most aggressive allergens among plants and can cause such unpleasant symptoms as runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing and even asthma exacerbation in susceptible people.
Ambrosia is a specific allergen. Its pollen grains have spikes that cling to the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract (i.e. they can remain in the body for a long time), swell and release allergenic proteins.
Furthermore, ragweed is very "prolific" – one plant can release up to a billion grains. The wind carries pollen for dozens of kilometers.
Therefore, it is almost impossible to hide from ragweed.
However, with precautions and proper treatment, life during this period can be made much easier.
Treatment of ragweed allergy is complex and should be prescribed by a specialist for each individual patient, taking into account existing health problems, age, gender and how ragweed allergy manifests itself in the body.
In addition to the personalized treatment prescribed by the doctor, it is advisable to consider the following protective measures:
- Drink plenty of plain water every day. The fact is that the quantitative increase in the amount of pure water drunk per day makes the kidneys work harder and thus cleanses the blood naturally.
- Reduce walking in the morning hours, on hot and windy days, when the air has the highest concentration of pollen, it is better to go out in the evening and after rain.
- After returning from the street, take a shower, be sure to wash your hair and change your clothes. Shower at least twice a day.
- Do not open windows or air the room across. It is best to sleep with the windows closed, but if you do decide to ventilate the room, it is best to do so after rain or in the evening when there is no wind.
- Do not dry clothes after washing outdoors (on the balcony), as weed pollen settles on them.
- Use an air purifier, air conditioner with air filters at the outlet, air conditioners with HEPA filters – they trap pollen.
- Wet clean your home on a daily basis.
In addition to these recommendations, you may want to take a look at these natural remedies that could be of great help in case of ragweed allergy, and not only…
Saline therapy
Considered by some to be an effective method of relaxation involving inhalation of saline aerosols, saline therapy is an increasingly popular method for people seeking to reduce allergy-related symptoms.
A growing number of doctors recommend this therapy inside saline rooms for both adults and children, with time spent in the specific location alternating from person to person.
Saline therapy is a good natural remedy that makes its presence felt throughout life if done systematically.
Nasal cleansing
Clearing the nasal passages of allergens and irritants is very important to get rid of symptoms. You can use a nasal saline solution for this purpose. Stir a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Using a dropper, pour a small amount of this solution into one of the nostrils. Allow it to go into your mouth. Blow your nose gently to remove excess mucus and solution. Repeat the procedure several times a day during allergy season.
Viola tricolor extract
This natural remedy is the most powerful anti-allergic known in the world today, its effectiveness being observed in all types of allergies (skin, respiratory, digestive, etc.), as well as in autoimmune diseases, atopic dermatitis.
Thus, the tincture significantly reduces inflammation, breathing difficulties, fever and itching of mucous membranes caused by various allergens.
Considered a true respiratory tonic, the preparation is useful for both children and adults, and also has an excellent detoxification ability.
Advice: for people who do not tolerate or are prohibited/restricted from drinking alcohol, the tincture is diluted in hot tea, a process that evaporates the alcohol without affecting the content of biologically active substances in the tea.
Nettle infusion
Nettle infusion can be very useful in preventing symptoms of rhinorrhea, itchy nose and eyes. Nettle is rich in chlorophyll and mineral salts, especially iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium and silicon. It contains a large amount of vitamin C (200 times more than in apples), as well as other important vitamins.
To prepare the infusion, take 4 tbsp. dry nettle leaves pour 1 liter of cold water. Boil for 15 minutes. Let cool and strain. Drink during the day.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is recommended for treating various types of allergies. It has antihistamine properties and helps to relieve inflammation and regulate the immune system. If you suffer from ragweed allergy you can mix two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water and then add a teaspoon of honey. Drink a glass of this preparation twice a day, after eating something beforehand.
Using natural methods of treatment of allergy to ragweed pollen, you should not expect from them an immediate and visible effect – they will not instantly get rid of a runny nose, cough or tearing. But if used correctly, they will definitely strengthen the body and contribute to an easier course of the disease.
Enjoy the last month of summer to the fullest!