With in winter chill in the air, many of us are coming down with seasonal allergies or sniffles. Instead of popping pills, here are four natural remedies that you can use to cure them. 1. Apple Cider Vinegar. Believed to reduce mucus production in the airways, apple cider vinegar prevents dust, pollen and other allergens (the most common triggers of asthma and flu) from being trapped in your sinus cavities. A teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of lukewarm water twice a day is enough to do the trick.
2. Manuka Honey. Extracted from the hives of bees nesting on the flowers of the Manuka crop (grown mostly in New Zealand), this is honey is believed to act as a vaccine against allergies by boosting the immune system. A teaspoon of Manuka honey – available in most supermarkets – first thing every morning can trigger the production of antibodies that can help your body fight allergies and infects naturally.
3. Saline Water. A saline water rinse of your nasal cavities washes off allergens, reducing their intensity. Gone are the days when you would have to search for pure salt to make a saline solution; you can now buy saline water nasal sprays and solution from any pharmacy. Although they are not a substitutes for anti-allergy medication, using the spray regular during the dry winter months will cleanse nasal passages, while gargling with salt water will soothe an itchy throat.
4. Turmeric. Adding this spice to your curries and soups not only gives them more zing and colour,it acts as a decongestant, helping soothe sore throats and ease coughs. A glass of warm milk with a teaspoon of turmeric and a dash of black pepper before going to bed will provide relief from sniffling and sneezing.
By Sadia Kamran