Naturally Boost Immune System to Fight Allergies This Season

Filed in archive Allergy Basics on March 28, 2007

Our immune system responds to allergens through allergies.

Upon exposure to allergens (pollen, dust, etc.), our body's defense mechanism releases chemicals such as histamines (making our noses run, eyes water and itch, and cause sneezing), leukotrienes (causing excess mucus) and prostiglandins (inflaming the sinuses).

Therefore it is important that we should optimize our nutrition for health and maintaining a strong immune system especially during this allergy season - spring. To accomplish this, medical professionals advice us a well-balanced diet - along with proper rest, exercise, and hygiene habits.

While there are supplements, vitamins in addition to nutritionally-balanced, this is good as any time for us to be reminded of some natural ways to boost our system so we can fight allergies:

The sulfur compounds found in garlic and onions have antiviral and antibacterial qualities and are well known to boost immunity.

Garlic, onions and citrus fruits like lemon and oranges contain a natural antihistamine called quercetin, which counteracts the histamines that cause nasal allergies.

Eating spices such as cayenne, ginger, onion, garlic, and horseradish help to thin mucus and relieve sinus congestion.

Find more details from the full article.