If you're someone who sneezes through the Spring, suffers from runny eyes and the sniffles, you know how miserable this season can be. You're not alone. Studies indicate that over 25% of the population is affected by allergies which can be triggered by pollen, animal dander, specific foods, air pollution, dust mites, mold and even ingredients in beauty products to name just a few. Why do allergies occur? They do so when your specific immune system reacts to a foreign substance that most likely has no adverse effect on most people. The majority of allergies aren't life-threatening but they can affect the airways, sinuses and nasal passages, skin and even the digestive system.
Although most allergies cannot be cured, treatments and natural remedies can make life immensely more bearable for those affected. And our best advice is - don't wait for the symptoms to arrive - make it part of your daily habit during allergy season and promote wellness. Here are our recommendations from the wide variety available in Herbal and Rooibos Blends - all of which have benefits to stave off allergy symptoms:
Nettle
Yes, this is the same prickly plant that is an irritant in the garden but its leaves have beneficial properties and it is considered a common natural allergy relief remedy. By itself, it has a grassy, unpleasant taste but blended with other herbs, it can be enjoyed daily. Nettle's anti-inflammatory qualities prevent hay fever symptoms. Our Herb Revive is a blend of Apple, Stinging Nettle & Verbena leaves, Lemongrass, and Cranberries, naturally sweet and delicious hot or iced.
Licorice Root
This is an old-school remedy and known as a natural cough suppressant and expectorant. It is also considered to be an anti-inflammatory, thus assisting in respiratory problems associated with allergies. Our aptly-named herbal blend Spring Solace contains Licorice Root, Honey Bee Pollen, Mint as well as Eucalyptus among other ingredients.
Bee Pollen
Even the US Department of Agriculture cites bee pollen as one of the most nutritious foods we can eat. It contains vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, lipids, and protein. It is said to boost energy, fight allergies and relieve digestive disorders. Local bee pollen and local honey are highly recommended. Our very popular Phoenix tea has Black Tea, Bee Pollen, Honey, and Caramel. Not just sweet in the cup but also good for you!
Rooibos
Naturl antihistamine properties in Rooibos come from a bioflavonoid called Quercetin. This essential ingredient blocks the release of histamine and curbs the common and annoying symptoms of seasonal allergies such as a runny nose, sneezing, and other hay fever symptoms. In addition, Rooibos is high in anti-oxidants, naturally caffeine-free and a great robust base for many herbal blends. Since we suffer from the same allergies that others do, we've come up with our own House Allergy Blend - Rooi Relief. It is a calming blend of Rooibos, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, and Citrus - make yourself a cup daily and relieve your allergy symptoms.
Other Teas and Herbs are also used to fight allergies:
Green Tea which has EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), an antioxidant compound which assists in reducing allergies to pollen, pet dander, and dust. Include 2-3 cups of Green Tea to your daily diet.
Pepppermint acts as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and decongestant. It can decrease the release of histamines released when experiencing seasonal allergies, making it a good home-remedy for sinus inflammation and congestion. We offer several Wellness Blends - Mystic Mint Detox, DigestiMint, Ginger Ease and Spring Solace.
So before you reach for pills, try the above remedies - they have fewer side effects and may just allow you to coast through allergy season, symptom-free. And keep in mind that herbal blends, even though sometimes called Herbal "Teas" are not real Tea - they are herbs. So store them carefully, buy small quantities and check them before use to make sure they are still in good condition.
