Encouraging Health

If you’ve got nasal allergies, you know what a godsend antihistamines, inhalers, and nasal sprays can be. This herbal remedy is winning votes now, too.

It’s called butterbur. In a recent small study, butterbur tablets held their own — helping relieve sneezing, congestion, runny noses, and itchy, watery eyes. But there are cautions . . .

Best Approach to Butterbur
Extracts of butterbur may help ease allergy symptoms by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals called leukotrienes — something some allergy medicines do as well. But only a handful of short-term studies have been done on butterbur. So if you’re interested in the herb, it’s important that you talk with your doctor first — especially since butterbur contains compounds that can be toxic to the liver. (People with liver problems are obvious noncandidates.) Also, butterbur could make ragweed allergies worse because the herb shares similarities with that plant. One bonus with butterbur? It didn’t cause daytime drowsiness in a recent study.

Sleep better through an allergy flare-up with these tips:

Behaviors to avoid:
* Having caffeine after lunch
* Having alcohol within 6 hours of bedtime
* Watching television right before going to bed
* Having a cigarette before bedtime
* Going to bed hungry or when you’ve had a big meal
* Going to bed before you are sleepy
* Exercising too close to bedtime

Behaviors to adopt:

* Using your bedroom only for sleep and sex
* Exercising regularly, preferably in the morning or early afternoon
* Keeping a regular bedtime and waking time, even on the weekends
* Creating a relaxing bedtime routine, such as taking a leisurely stroll, soaking in a tub, listening to soothing music, or massaging your legs or feet before bed
* Practicing relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and deep-breathing exercises
* Creating a comfortable environment that is conducive to sleep by eliminating uncomfortable bedding, wearing loose clothing, keeping the bedroom temperature slightly cool, and eliminating any bothersome noise or light

More Ways to Soothe Your Sinuses
Follow your doctor’s advice regarding allergy medication.
Get tested so you know what to avoid.
Picture a peaceful, allergy-free place.
Try a little nasal irrigation.
Take a hot shower to soothe nasal congestion.
Check your local allergy forecast.

For more health tips, browse Encouraging Health.