Naural Alternatives for Zyrtec for CHILDREN

You can't build an immunity to an allergy - you can outgrow them, but you can't build an immunity like you can against common viruses, chicken pox, etc. via exposure.

If there were a valid natural cure/remedy for allergies, Zyrtec wouldn't be a billion dollar product, nor Claritin, etc. Having worked in the pharmaceutical industry for the past decade, I can assure you that nature is often the best source of medications, but most "natural remedies" that are passed via word-of-mouth have little to no scientific data behind them and are not FDA approved.

If it were my daughter, I'd have her take the Zyrtec for the 2 weeks. We actually started our 2 year-old on it on Monday because she wasn't responding to Claritin.

The pollen levels have been at record highs this season, but as we progress further into spring and summer, the pollen/mold levels should lessen along with the symptoms and reactions.

I have learned to control my severe allergies with vitamins. Sustained Release Vitamin C when an attack flares and as daily maintenance, and Probiotic daily to keep intestines balanced. Allergies are a hyper-immune system response, so anything you do to build and maintain the immune system will benefit. Avoid sugars and anything that contributes to candida yeast.

My history - 30 years of seeing allergists, shots for 10 years, daily - nasal sprays, inhalers, antihistimines, decongestants. Chronic sinus infection which led to bronchitis several times a year, sometimes resulting in pneumonia in that 30 year time frame.

Now - occasional dose of Benadryl (maybe 4 times a year) I have had 2 head colds in the past 4 years. Dismissed by allergist 12 years ago.

okay...I don't know if this is accurate or where I heard this. But I heard somewhere that if you buy local honey it will have small amounts of local pollen and whatnot in it. So if you give your daughter a small amount each day to taste it will slowly build up her immune system. Not sure if it's true but it can't hurt to try.

Hi Sue, my daughter was 5 when she was diagnosed with severe allergies. Her nasal passages are constantly stuffed. She is off the charts for dust mites, dogs, and cats. We had to tear out all the carpet in our home (we now have all hardwoods). She also develops severe eczema when her allergies flare up. We tried Claritin, with no luck. We started her on Zyrtec, and it really, really helps. When she is not on Zyrtec, she is constantly rubbing her "itchy" nose. Her face, although stuffy, does not itch, while on Zyrtec. She has taken 10mg, one pill daily for 5 years now. And every once in awhild needs a benedryl in addition to that if she spends time in a home with a dog. She is almost 11. At times, when she has run out, I have let her go off for awhile, just to see what happens, as I don't like the idea of her on a long term drug of any kind. But . . . as soon as she is off, she gets itchy nose again. Her pediatrican said it is OK to keep her on it and comfortable. She also says it's good to keep testing taking her off every once in awhile, as she may have less of need for it as she grows up. I just wanted to let you know it has been a lifesaver for us, and DD has been on it daily for over 5 years. No other side effects that we have noticed. Good luck!

I take one teaspoon of local honey a day (in my tea) and while it doesn't completely get rid of my symptoms, it helps immensely and I can definitely tell when I haven't taken it for a day or two.

I work with a non-pharmaceutical company, and this is what we give to patients suffering from allergies. All of the supplements are OTC and do not go through insurance. They are also very affordable. Pro-Vex Plus is a multi-vitamin supplement made from grape seeds that can be given to kids:
Researchers have found that in addition to strengthening your blood vessels, proanthocyanidins can attach themselves to important proteins, enhance visual acuity, and promote smoother skin.
ProVex Plus contains a potent source of proanthocyanidins—standardized grape seed extract in a patented, chemical-free system that uses no sulphur dioxide that some people are sensitive to.
Proanthocyanidins, the active ingredients in ProVex-Plus, are found in grape seeds. These unique compounds help strengthen blood vessels. They also act as antioxidants to fight free radicals and contribute to your overall health.* (Free radicals are destructive molecules that can damage your cells.)

ProVex-Plus also contains ginkgo biloba, sourced from an ancient plant that helps you maintain mental sharpness and proper blood circulation. The last ingredient in ProVex-Plus is bilberry extract, a cousin to the blueberry that helps enhance night vision.
There is also an OTC allergy medication called Counter Act Allergy that is comparable to Claritin, but made with natural products and it’s only half the cost of Claritin. There is no prescription needed and insurance doesn’t even get involved with OTC meds.
Let me know if you have any questions. We also have a family physician on staff if you have any questions.