allergic to spring

**QuilterMom** · 04-07-2006, 02:05 PM

http://www.publix.com/wellness/green...1&childId=1348

April showers may bring spring flowers, but they also bring pollen allergies, poison ivy and oak rashes, and bug bites and stings. Here's how to soothe mild allergies and minor irritations, naturally and effectively.
POLLEN ALLERGIES Sniffles and sneezes that sprout each spring are often caused by allergies to grass and tree pollens. These microscopic granules float on the spring breezes. When a sensitive person inhales them, the result can be a miserable mix of sneezing, runny nose, congestion, scratchy throat, and itchy, watery eyes.

During an allergic reaction, the body releases histamine, a compound that is the major cause of allergy symptoms. Christine Gustafson, M.D., an integrative medicine specialist from Alpharetta, Georgia, suggests getting plenty of the natural antihistamine quercetin, found in many fruits and vegetables. Good sources include onions, citrus fruits and juices, parsley, and tea. The herb nettle also can help reduce the inflammation that underlies many allergy symptoms, says Nancy Eklund, M.D., a Miami family physician who specializes in holistic approaches. Dr. Eklund recommends vitamin C, too, because it has shown promise fighting allergies in recent studies.

POISON IVY Poison ivy doesn't actually contain a poison. Instead, it contains urushiol, which triggers an allergic skin reaction - an itchy, red, blistery rash - in up to two-thirds of people. Because this rash can take weeks to heal, soaking in a lukewarm bath with an oatmeal solution or baking soda may ease the itching and dry up blisters. You also can soothe skin with a lotion or cream containing aloe, calamine, camphor, or menthol. Dr. Eklund suggests using aloe vera gel straight from the aloe vera plant. Simply slit open a leaf, remove the clear thick gel, and spread it on affected areas.

POISON OAK If you have touched poison oak, your skin will itch and water blisters often will form. To prevent a rash, pour rubbing alcohol over the affected area within minutes of being exposed and then follow with plenty of cold water (warm water enhances penetration of the oil). Even if it's too late to prevent the rash, wash the skin to remove excess plant oil to keep the rash from spreading.
INSECT BITES AND STINGS When bugs bite, they inject venom and other substances into your body that can trigger allergic reactions. For some people with severe allergies, this can lead to life-threatening symptoms that require immediate emergency medical treatment. For mild itching, tenderness, and swelling, an ice pack or cool, wet compress may provide some relief. Meat tenderizing powder also decreases swelling, says Kenneth Woliner, M.D., of Boca Raton, Florida. Mix 1 teaspoon of meat tenderizer with a little water to make a paste to apply to the bite. Or try using turmeric instead of meat tenderizer.