Notes from a Boho Momma By Amanda Barker
S
ummer greetings! I am really excited that summer has finally arrived as our family is already filling the season with weddings, camping trips and scheduled ‘do nothing’ weeks. But one thing always seems to haunt me at this time of year…my dreaded seasonal allergies. After my second child was born, my immune system got really confused and decided that ragweed and grass pollens were akin to anthrax. I used to have bouts of 15 sneezes in a row…a very dangerous scenario whilst driving with children! I tried various herbal remedies and, at times, had resorted to over the counter allergy meds, but since I have been breastfeeding or pregnant for about 11 years now, I have been very limited with what I have been able to take. If you have an over the counter plan of attack that works for you, great, but for those who would like to avoid medications (and the side effects that come with them), I have a list of some tried and true remedies that I have found to work for me.* Local honey – Yes, it has to be local as it has minute amounts of the allergens you are allergic to. This will create a homeopathic like treatment.
Avoid allergens – Sounds obvious, but avoiding foods you are slightly allergic to will help to lower the inflammation in your body, and your reactions to the pollen outside won’t be as dramatic. Quercetin – A bioflavonoid that helps stabilize the mast cells and prevents them from releasing histamine. The recommended dose is up to 1000 mg per day, divided up and taken every few hours. Stinging Nettle – This is a natural antihistamine without the side effects. The easiest form to take is probably the extract in capsules. Taking about 300 mg per day will provide some relief. Omega 3’s – However you choose to source yours, be it fish, flaxseed oil, or grass fed meats and eggs, make sure to eat plenty as they are crucial in lowering inflammation (and reducing your reactions). Vitamin C – There have been many reports of people actually curing their allergies with vitamin C. Vitamin C makes the immune system more efficient, going after real threats instead of Ragweed dressed up as Darth Vader. I plan to be enjoying my summer sneeze free and I hope the same for you! * Consult with a health care professional for more information on the effects and benefits of these remedies. Amanda Barker is a herbalist, doula, CBE, and owner of Ovio Organico skin care and Boho Birth. abarker@gmail.com.
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