It’s Not What You Think! Covid 19 and Allergy Symptoms

Allergy season is upon us and a heightened awareness, caused by the pandemic, creates new concerns when we or those around us exhibit cold or allergy symptoms. Actually, COVID-19 and allergy symptoms have very little in common. But the symptoms such as coughing, sneezing and runny nose may be alarming to those in your vicinity.

Unlike COVID-19, which is caused by a virus, seasonal allergies are an immune system response that is triggered by exposure to seasonal tree growth, grass pollens or other allergens. But the real root of allergy symptoms occur, partially, because of inflammation caused when your body overreacts to those allergens.  So, how do you know if you have COVID-19 or seasonal allergies?  And how can you minimize the effects of allergens in your system? 

Because of a tendency toward a cleaner, (maybe too clean), environment and the overuse of antibiotics, seasonal allergies are more common in developed countries.  But a growing pollution problem exposes less developed areas to increased allergies, as well. No matter where you live or work, wearing a clean, cloth face mask, (a used mask may harbor pollen particles), to slow the spread of COVID-19 may also give you some protection from allergens in the air. While smaller pollen particles may still penetrate, masks can deter inhalation of larger pollen particles. But the best way to prevent seasonal allergies is to avoid exposure to your allergens and to know what triggers them.

In large part, you can do this through allergen identification and by creating a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet focused on whole foods and natural remedies.  Diets that include lots vegetables, fruit, fish, free-range poultry, nuts, seeds, and other plant foods help combat the effect of air pathogens.   Next, minimize your reaction to environmental allergens by eliminating exposure to those that you are sensitive to, such as wheat, eggs and dairy and make sure you do not have a Vitamin D deficiency.  This can be a common underlying contributor to allergies. 

In addition, the use of Probiotics and Prebiotics in your regimen can actually make you less reactive to various allergens. Good bacteria sources, found in fermented foods, like kimchi and live kraut (unless you have a histamine intolerance) are both prebiotics, but there are many others to explore. 

Seasonal allergies can be a nuisance, but before you reach for that bottle of antihistamines, that offer only temporary relief for allergy symptoms, consider some alternatives that can naturally prevent, reduce or eliminate allergy symptoms.  Allergy season can last for weeks or even months and can lead to an overuse of antihistamines that may cause uncomfortable side effects, such as headache, fatigue, and dry mouth. Maybe it is time to try a different approach.  Here are some herbs that can naturally stem the effects of allergies.

The magic of mushrooms, particularly Red Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum), not only fights germs but also combats allergies and autoimmune disease. Red Reishi is full of anti-inflammatory and adaptogen properties that can regulate your immune system response when taken on a regular basis. If you have a low tolerance for mushrooms, Astragalus Root (Astragalus membranaceus) has similar polysaccharides and has been shown to decrease the severity of seasonal allergies.  Both medicinal mushrooms and Astragalus can improve immune cell function and signaling.  

Even though Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica) contains histamines, its various compounds decrease both allergy-related inflammation and histamine levels.  It is a very safe herb that can provide immediate symptomatic relief and is helpful during seasonal allergies. Nettle blends well with Goldenrod and Horehound and is best consumed on a regular basis for allergy support

Mullein Leaf (Verbascum thapsus) eases respiratory problems and has been used, traditionally, as an expectorant and to stimulate the cough reflex. This property makes Mullein a natural resource to ease bronchitis, asthma, and croup and other breathing difficulties.  Mullein is an herb that should be a staple in everyone’s herbal medicine chest, especially during cold and flu season. The active ingredients include mucilage, volatile oil, saponins, coumarin, rotenone, bitter glycosides, carotenoids, tannins and flavonoids, such as hesperidin. The high mucilage content in the herb, can be soothing to the respiratory system and help reduce inflammation and irritation, thus relieving sinus congestion. It is also mildly sedative to ease breathing.

Coptis Chinensis, aka Chinese Goldthread & Huang Lian has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over two thousand years. Considered to be one of the fundamental homeopathic herbs, Coptis is believed to have antibiotic and antifungal properties.  Using a Coptis tincture may help reduce fever due to its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties and is an excellent immune system booster for those are feeling run down or fatigued. The most well-known alkaloid contained in this amazing herb is berberine, the component that gives Oregon Grape Root and Goldenseal their yellow/gold color, bitter taste and some of their therapeutic effects. The herb has proven to be an effective antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiparasitic herb. 

Goldenrod Leaf (Solidago virgaurea) has a long history of medicinal use in both North America and Europe.  It is believed to have a higher content of antioxidants than green tea and, because of its astringent and antiseptic qualities, Goldenrod has long been associated with common cold and flu relief and similar respiratory ailments.  This herb is often mistaken for the ragweed plant, but Goldenrod is actually an antidote for seasonal ragweed allergies and may help calm symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. It is believed to be a very effective remedy for allergies, and its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties make it a good choice for sore throats. As an expectorant, it has been used to clear mucous easily from the lungs and has been proven to be useful as an herbal treatment for pneumonia, pleurisy, laryngitis, and pharyngitis.

While COVID-19 can cause shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, seasonal allergies rarely cause these types of symptoms; unless you have a respiratory condition, (like asthma), that can be triggered by pollen exposure. Seasonal allergies may last several weeks.  But, if you have chronic allergies, be cognizant of symptoms you do not normally experience during an allergy episode.  Severe allergies can create tightness in your chest and shortness of breath, especially if you have asthma. But these can also be serious symptoms of COVID-19. If you are uncertain, reach out to your health care provider, or go to a local testing site if these symptoms persist.