Allergy Fighting Tip From the Ancients

Modern science is trying to find effective ways to protect us from allergy-inducing household dust mites, but the answer may come from the wisdom of the ages. Researchers say the ancient Egyptians had the right idea -- use cotton.

A British firm has developed a bedding cover made from 100 percent natural, unbleached cotton cloth from Egypt. Tests at the Entomology Center at the University of Cambridge confirm it serves as a complete barrier to these dust mites and their allergenic droppings, which are one of the main causes of asthma.

With the chemical-free cloth, one study says "it is ideal for adults and children with sensitivity to chemicals, or who suffer from asthma, eczema or rhinitis." To avoid catching anything from hotel mattresses and pillows in dodgy foreign climes, you can bring your bedding along on vacations.

The bedding cloth is a product of the Sounder Sleep company in Yorkshire, England. In the wake of the Cambridge tests, it has been given an official seal of approval for textiles.