Technically, allergy refers to an altered state or response by the body to any substance. Some people develop allergic reactions to pollen, dust, cold or to medications. Avoidance is always the best way to control allergies. But when allergens are unknown, allergy treatments are the only way to handle the hypersensitivity of the body.

Interestingly enough, when going in for allergy treatments, people do not always choose the most effective and the simplest options. Despite their drawbacks, people usually go in for medications directly. Fortunately for us, there are lots of ways old and new- to help avoid allergy.

Allergy treatments are usually lengthy and difficult processes that investigate every aspect of the patients life and eliminate one cause after another till the actual cause is discovered. Allergy treatments are so complicated because people who are susceptible to allergies are vulnerable not just to one element, but to a number of substances. This is especially true if the allergy has been around for some time. In that case the adrenal glands are always on high alert. Adrenal fatigue is therefore a common side-effect of allergies.

Allergy-proof your house

The first step towards effective allergy treatments is to allergy-proof your house. You do not have to strip your house down for this. Keep it as free of dust and mold as possible. Some other things to do include:

- Keeping the house moderately cold

- Maintain low levels of humidity

- Ensure proper ventilation

Diet

Food reactions are memorized by the cells of the body and keep recurring again and again till these reactions are erased from the body. Go on an elimination diet. Remove one item of food after another till you discover the cause. Dairy products tend to trigger allergic reactions in people. The most common food allergens include: tea, coffee, oranges, corn, sugar and food additives. It is also essential to do away with as many items of super-refined and processed foods as you can. Hydrogenated fats are allergens. Skip the wafers and start eating carrots! Fresh fruits and vegetables, beans, nuts, soybeans and whole grains are your best bet.

Herbs

Herbs offer another effective line of defense against allergies. Allergy treatments effected through herbs are natural and long lasting. The herbs can be taken in a tablet or capsule form. Certain herbs stimulate the immune system and are powerful antioxidants. Some herbs, like garlic have antibacterial properties that are beneficial in healing symptoms of cold.

Mineral and vitamin supplements

Allergy treatments can be effected through supplements also. Calcium and magnesium are important nutrients that an allergy sufferer needs. These minerals help relax an over-reactive system. These minerals also help with stress and strain caused to the body due to allergic reactions.

Vitamin A and Zinc are vital for a healthy immune system. They provide an antibody that coats the allergens in the intestinal tract itself. Thus these are not absorbed into the body.

Holistic allergy treatments

Many kinds of holistic therapy systems like Acupuncture, Acutouch, Pranayama, Yoga and Rolfing help deal with allergies and their resulting symptoms. Many of these systems come with strict dietary guidelines that help eliminate allergy caused by food. Holistic healing systems also come with a system of herbal medication and exercises that help strengthen the bodys immune system.