By Maryse IsmaSpecial to CSMS Magazine     If you or a family member notices outbreaks of allergy-like symptoms while housecleaning (or the day after), you may be suffering from a tough-to-diagnose environment illness. Excess exposure to detergents and cleaning solution may be contributing to the condition. A new, and highly controversial, medical specialty—clinical ecology—has developed over the past 20 years to provide additional expertise to patients, allergists and other doctors. Patients are advised to substitute organic foods for commercially prepared ones and natural based cleaning products and homemade scrubs for commercial cleaners. 

A lymph massage boost

 If your symptoms such as sinuses and congestion are lingering, and you suspect that your condition is bogged down by poor diet and/or an especially high pollen count, take a cue from Europeans who are similarly afflicted. Drs. Emil and Estrid Vodder developed lymph (or lymphatic) massage in the 1930s as a way to help detoxify the body. The light-tough, “feathery” massage technique is said to work on the body, between the surface of the skin and the muscles, to help remove metabolic waste, toxins and allergens from tissues—quickly. You can request this type of massage from a growing number of massage therapists.

Acupressure Allergy Relief

 An especially powerful acupressure point that is used clear the sense organs sits just beyond the fleshy part of your hand between the forefinger and thumb. Simply press one thumb against this point on the opposite hand (for 15 to 30 seconds) to help open up your sinuses.            A more direct approach favored by acupressure therapists is to press clean fingertips to the sides of the nose, slightly above the nostrils, for about a minute at a time. Do the same to your sinuses slightly above each eyebrow.

Bee Pollen Power

 Besides its ability to boost energy, bee pollen is said to help prevent allergies. Naturopaths and others often recommend it. Try adding a teaspoon of sweet granules (now widely available in health food stores) to your daily diet during allergy seasons. If you are especially sensitive to pollen, start with only a few granules.Caution: You should avoid bee products altogether if you are allergic to bees.

Negative Energy, Positive Results

 Do you feel you have more than your share of allergies? You could be surrounded by too much “positive” energy. One solution: Try using a negative-ion generator, which emits tiny, invisible, odorless and electrically charged particles into your home or office.             Negative ions, environment air experts say, actually stick to irritants and allergens, forcing them to adhere to surfaces instead of remaining free-floating. Once they stick, you can sweep or dust the allergens away. The ion generators can be obtained through mail-order catalogs, Internet suppliers and allergy clinics.Also seeNew tips for a healthier living