Millions of people suffer from allergies. Allergic reactions from pollen, dust, smoke, pollution, pet fur, house mites, and other irritants can cause all kinds of symptoms ranging from a runny nose to anaphylactic shock.

Allergies are hyper-sensitivity reactions caused by a fault in the immune system. Hay fever is a common type of allergy and often occurs in people with excess mucous. Many hay fever sufferers find relief with Ginkgo Biloba or ginger. Evening primrose, nettle, aloe, Echinacea, goldenseal, and eyebright teas can also be beneficial. To remove mucus from the body, take 1 teaspoon of grated horseradish mixed with a tablespoon of freshly-squeezed lemon juice. (This remedy works great on stuffed-up noses caused by allergies and colds.)

A diet change is the best remedy for many allergies. Dairy foods should be avoided and water intake should be increased. Royal jelly, ginseng, and bee pollen should be taken daily for one or two weeks. Fresh organic vegetables, fruits, and juices are essential. Lots of sea-vegetables (seaweed), high-fiber cereal, and wheat germ are beneficial.

Food intolerances cause many allergic reactions. Eggs, milk, peanuts, soy, wheat, chocolate, strawberries, fish, and shellfish are the most common food allergens. Symptoms usually involve the skin or intestines and usually begin within an hour after ingesting the offending food. Sneezing, wheezing, swelling of the tongue and lips, skin rashes, hives, eczema, cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are all signs of food intolerance.

Lifestyle changes can greatly reduce the chances of an allergic reaction by removing the underlying cause. Move to an area with green-space and cleaner air. Avoid canned foods and all produce that is sprayed with colorants, waxes, or ripening agents.

Some allergies are brought on by air-borne irritants such as pollen and smoke. In these cases, acupuncture can sometimes stop an attack. Try pressing hard on the tip of the nose or the hollow above the center of the upper lip. Another technique is pressing in an upward motion under and over the cheekbones.

Eczema and hives are often reactions to ordinary household products. Synthetic fabric, silk, wool, detergent, deodorant, or strong soap can be the offending culprit. Some people are even allergic to florescent lighting, aluminum cookware, microwave ovens, and non-filtered computer screens. When there is a sudden onset of allergic symptoms, any new product is suspect.

Soothe many allergy symptoms with herbal preparations. Relieve itching and watery eyes with a splash of eyebright tea. Ease asthma congestion with rosemary or eucalyptus inhalants. Build resistance and support the immune system with garlic. Take locally-produced honey in the winter months to reduce intensity and duration of springtime allergies. Detoxify the blood with green tea. Support liver function with milk thistle seed and dandelion. Fight inflammation with bilberry. Support the adrenal glands with astragalus, licorice, and liquid chlorophyll.

*Asthma, eczema, hay fever, food allergies, and hives can be life-threatening conditions. Always consult with your health care professional before using any herbal remedy.