Alternative Treatments and Dietary Aids for Alleviating Mold Allergy Symptoms

Alternative Treatments and Dietary Aids for Alleviating Mold Allergy Symptoms

Mould allergy can be a nuisance, causing symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, watery eyes, and a runny nose. But fear not, as there are several natural approaches to help manage these symptoms.

Firstly, environmental control plays a crucial role in preventing mould growth. Keeping indoor humidity below 50% is essential, and fixing any moisture problems is highly recommended. Regular cleaning and vacuuming help reduce mould spores, while air purifiers can filter airborne allergens. Air purification can be achieved through ventilation, the use of dehumidifiers, installing HEPA filters, and maintaining indoor humidity levels below 50% [1][3].

Essential oils with antifungal properties, such as clove oil, tea tree oil, and eucalyptus oil, can inhibit or kill mould spores. They can be used in diffusers for airborne spores or diluted with carrier oils for topical application [2][4]. Other oils like lavender and citrus offer additional benefits.

Topical remedies can also provide relief. Oatmeal baths can soothe itchy skin caused by allergies, while coconut oil and aloe vera offer antifungal and skin-soothing properties. Turmeric paste, known for its anti-inflammatory effects, can reduce associated irritation [1][4].

Lifestyle measures are also important. Avoiding outdoor exposure during damp or high mould count times, wearing masks when handling mould-prone materials, and keeping windows closed at night can limit mould intake [3].

Some natural remedies, such as quercetin, found in many natural foods, provide relief from allergic rhinitis symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties [5]. Honey, when combined with standard allergy medicine, has been found to relieve mould allergy symptoms more effectively than allergy medicine and a sugar syrup placebo [6].

Regular home cleaning helps identify mould in the home and provides an opportunity to clean it with a cloth. Using mould-resistant products can prevent mould growth in the home, including mould-killers and applying a sealer or paint to prevent mould growth on walls [1].

Lastly, aromatherapy with essential oils such as sandalwood, frankincense, and Ravensara can reduce allergic rhinitis symptoms and improve sleep. Antihistamines, such as Loratidine, Cetirizine, and Fexofenadine, work by blocking histamine release in the body, providing relief from symptoms like a runny nose, itching, and fever [7]. Nasal corticosteroids are effective in treating upper respiratory infections caused by mould allergy, reducing mucus and throat inflammation [8].

While these natural remedies can help manage symptom relief, they do not replace professional allergy diagnosis and treatment if necessary. For severe or persistent symptoms, consulting an allergist is recommended [1][3].

In summary, combining environmental control strategies with antifungal essential oils, soothing topical applications, and lifestyle adjustments forms an effective natural approach to mould allergy symptom relief.

References:

[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Mould allergy. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mould-allergy/symptoms-causes/syc-20374321

[2] National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2021). Essential oils: Inhaling and applying oils. Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/essential-oils-inhaling-and-applying-oils

[3] Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. (2021). Mould allergy. Retrieved from https://www.aafa.org/mold-allergy/

[4] University of Maryland Medical Center. (2021). Oatmeal baths. Retrieved from https://www.umms.org/learn/health-topics/oatmeal-baths

[5] National Library of Medicine. (2021). Quercetin. Retrieved from https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Quercetin-HealthProfessional/

[6] National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2021). Honey. Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/honey

[7] National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2021). Antihistamines. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/antihistamines

[8] American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. (2021). Nasal corticosteroids. Retrieved from https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/library/allergy-library/nasal-corticosteroids

1. Environmental control measures like keeping indoor humidity below 50%, fixing moisture problems, and using air purifiers can prevent mould growth and alleviate mould allergy symptoms.
2. Essential oils such as clove oil, tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, lavender, and citrus have antifungal properties that can inhibit or kill mould spores, providing relief from mould allergy symptoms.
3. Topical remedies like oatmeal baths, coconut oil, aloe vera, and turmeric paste offer soothing properties and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing associated irritation caused by mould allergy.
4. Lifestyle changes such as avoiding outdoor exposure during damp or high mould count times, wearing masks when handling mould-prone materials, and keeping windows closed at night can help limit mould intake and manage mould allergy symptoms.
5. Natural remedies like quercetin, found in many foods, and honey, when combined with standard allergy medicine, can provide additional relief from mould allergy symptoms.
6. Aromatherapy with essential oils such as sandalwood, frankincense, and Ravensara can reduce allergic rhinitis symptoms and improve sleep, while antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids work by blocking histamine release in the body and treating upper respiratory infections caused by mould allergy. It's important to note that these natural remedies do not replace professional allergy diagnosis and treatment if necessary.

Read also: