The birds and the bees are out once again, welcoming a new season: SPRING is upon us. It’s comforting to hear the bees buzzing around new blossoms. It’s reassuring to see new growth on trees and bushes and daffodils braving the cold temperatures and the snow we’re still seeing in our beautiful valley. The days are getting longer, and it feels like we’re slowly but surely coming out of hibernation; some of us have been fortifying our immune system even through the cold months by doing crazy things like cold plunges. What’s crazy about this? 3 minutes in 45 degree water with the outside temperature in the 30s, 4-5 times a week, yep, pretty crazy AND invigorating. It’s a great way to reduce inflammation and speed up physical recovery, it increases stress management skills and energy levels, it improves sleep, it helps burn fat and improves insulin sensitivity and it builds resilience by boosting the immune system.
Ways to make this a successful and memorable endeavor: Set a timer but don’t look at the clock. Listen to uplifting music. Immerse yourself in cold water all the way, without hesitation. Focus on slowing your breathing down; some find the Wim Hof breathing technique very helpful. Regardless of how long you last during your first try, do it again the next day! Let us know if you’d like to take a plunge and our providers will support you, and also help determine whether there may be any contraindications for you; and when you’re done, please share your successes with us!
Maybe this practice could even help with fighting seasonal allergies, a common problem that affects millions of people around the world this time of year. Symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life. While medication is often used to manage allergies, natural supplements can also be effective in reducing symptoms. Here are some natural remedies that can help alleviate allergies.
Quercetin is a flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a natural antihistamine. It can help reduce inflammation in the airways and improve breathing. It is found in foods such as onions, apples, and berries, but it is also available in supplement form.
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and help support immune function. Studies have shown that probiotics can help reduce the severity of allergy symptoms, especially in children. Probiotics are found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, and they are also available in supplement form.
Honey is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat allergies. Consuming local honey can help your body develop a tolerance to the pollen in the air. However, honey should not be given to infants under one year old.
Stinging nettle is a plant that has been used for centuries to treat allergies. It contains natural antihistamines and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce allergy symptoms. It’s available in supplement form, but it can also be brewed into tea. Oshala farm offers big bags of locally grown and harvested stinging nettle.
Essential oils can be helpful in reducing allergy symptoms. Peppermint oil can help open up airways, while eucalyptus oil can help reduce inflammation in the airways. Lavender oil can also be helpful in reducing allergy symptoms, as it has natural antihistamine properties. Essential oils can be diffused, applied topically, or added to a bath.
Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine that can help reduce inflammation in the airways. It is found in foods such as citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens, but it is also available in supplement form.
It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before trying any new remedies or crazy cold plunge practices, especially if you are taking medication or have a medical condition. As always, our team at Siskiyou Vital Medicine is committed to formulating the right plan for you!