Emergency Preparedness – Allergies

1:56 PM Posted by jo

This is my fifth post in my Emergency Preparedness series where I address an important issue such as lack of access to medicine and medical care in case of emergencies.

What if access to medication and medical care is denied?

In my first post, Emergency Preparedness, I was wondering how people on prescribed medications would handle an emergency situation if access to medication and medical care is denied. I encourage you to go back to my previous posts and read them. My previous posts cover high blood pressure, a nxiety & depression, pain ,and diabetes

I urge you to take charge of your own health so you're better prepared for any situation where you might not be able to fill your prescription or use any medical facilities.

Natural solutions
Below are some natural solutions to the most prescribed drugs in America today.

Why essential oils?

You can stockpile essential oils, and they have no expiration date if they are stored correctly. Herbs also lose their potency over time.
They are small enough so they can be put in a pocket if needed.
They are more potent so less amount is needed for healing. You have to drink 26 cups of peppermint tea in order to get the same healing effect as one drop of therapeutic peppermint essential oil.

Treat the body holistically
It is important to remember to take a holistic approach to healing and not only rely on natural remedies. Dietary changes, living a toxin free life, exercise, sufficient rest and sleep, and incorporating other healing therapies into your life should also be considered.

Okay, here we go:

#4 Allergy medications are some of the most prescribed drugs in our country

It is said that 35 millions suffer from allergies and many of them need prescription medications.

A German study found that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids decreased the allergy symptoms. A Swedish study found that children who regularly ate fish prior to the age of one had much lower allergies by the time they were four. Omega-3 fatty acids sources are eggs, krill oil, and grass fed meat.
Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to allergies and more severe asthma in children.
Horseradish, hot chili peppers, and hot mustards are natural decongestants.
Locally produced honey which contains pollen spores, may act as a "natural allergy vaccine" according to many. They introduce a small amount of allergen by eating the honey and the immune system is activated, over time can build up the immune system against it.
Historically, quercetin rich food such as red grapes, red onions, capers, black tea, and apples have been used to prevent a histamine release, meaning they are natural antihistamines.
According to Steven Horne, the body needs to be purged from toxins and the immune system needs to be stimulated. All processed food with artificial chemicals add to the toxic burden of your body. Refined products are mucus forming and they don't do anything to relieve your allergies.
Increase wholesome food, dark leafy vegetables, freshly squeezed fruit and vegetable juices in your diet.
According to Steven Horne, other nutrients that may be beneficial are selenium, zinc, pantothenic acid, and antioxidants.
Other things that may play an important role in allergies are adrenal insufficiency, liver problems and leaky gut syndrome according to Steven Horne.

Time for the oils:
It is said that lavender has anti-histamine properties. Studies also show that luteoln-7-orutinoside in peppermint has antihistamine properties. Gary Young says frankincense may help with allergies and Battaglia says it may be helpful for asthma. . Read my post, Essential Oils & Allergies for more detailed information.

Remember
Never quit any prescribed medication on your own since it may be dangerous. Some medications needs to be weaned of slowly. Consult with your doctor first.

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.

Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:

Topical Application

Inhaling Essential Oils

Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?

How to Dilute Essential Oils

Vita Flex Technique

If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives. She also runs Naturally Sports & Wellness together with her husband.
Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.

Sources:

Connie and Alan Higley, (Twelfth Edition, revised 2010). Reference Guide for Essential Oils. Abundant Health
Gary Young, ND (2006). Essential Oils, Integrative Medical Guide. Essential Science Publishing

Salvatore Battaglia (1995). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. The Perfect Potion Pty Ltd

Julie Behling (2011). Medical Preparedness for Adults E-book

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