Mold Allergies Herbal Remedy

Mold allergies cause your immune system to over-react when exposed to mold spores. This produces symptoms such as watering and itchy eyes, coughing, congestion, sore throat, runny nose, and dry, itchy skin. According to the Mayo Clinic, the best treatment for mold allergies involves limiting exposure to the spores, but since mold can live anywhere it is not always possible to avoid it. Lifestyle and home adaptations, as well as natural herbal remedies, can help keep mold allergies at bay, allowing you to breathe more freely.

Helpful Tips

• Since airborne mold spores tend to be more active at night when it is damp and cold, make sure to close windows while you sleep. Use a central air conditioning unit with a HEPA (high energy particulate air) filter to keep the house cool and trap mold spores. Keep your house mold-free by being vigilant about plumbing leaks and other sources of dampness. Try not to head outdoors during rainstorms or when the weather report indicates a high mold count. If you need to mow the lawn or work outside in the garden, perhaps wear a dust mask to help limit your exposure to mold spores.

Herbal Remedies

• A number of herbs, taken in a natural form, made into teas, or even encapsulated, might offer some relief from allergies. Remember that natural does not always mean safe. Many herbs can have powerful side effects. Check with your doctor for guidance before taking any type of herbs or supplements. According to the Bastyr Center for Natural Health, the herb butterbur, a member of the daisy family, might offer natural antihistamine powers that help alleviate mold allergy symptoms. The Bastyr Center also suggests tintospora, an Indian herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, as a promising remedy for the coughing, sneezing, and congestion associated with mold allergies. Ginger, a natural anti-inflammatory, can help reduce swelling in your glands and nasal passages. A study in the 2009 Phytotherapy Research journal supports Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) as an effective allergy treatment due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Histamines in the Stinging Nettle also help control the body's response to mold and other allergens.
  A hot cup of soothing chamomile tea might shorten the length of allergy attacks and soothe some of the symptoms. Adding eucalyptus leaves or oil to a steam bath can help relieve congestion due to mold allergies. You can also add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a carrier oil and use it as a soothing chest rub. Crush a handful of peppermint leaves and add them to a hot cup of water for a soothing tea that can help alleviate sinus pressure due to allergies.