While it’s possible to get medications for seasonal allergies, they can have negative side effects. These include a dry mouth, stomach problems, nasal problems, and sleep problems, among others.
There are ways to alleviate seasonal allergy symptoms without resorting to pharmaceutical drugs. Try the following tips and home remedies to get relief from seasonal allergies. (h/t to TheOrganicPrepper.com)
Simple steps for reducing seasonal allergy symptoms
Allergies are a violent response to a compound. The symptoms vary for each person, but they mainly focus on the nasal and oral organs of the body. Seasonal allergies come with a stuffy, runny nose and itchy, watery eyes. Moreover, people generally feel more tired and may have skin reactions.
Try these tips to reduce the symptoms of seasonal allergies:
1. Avoid exposure to allergens
As the saying goes, the best treatment is prevention. Here are some things that you can do to avoid contact with allergens:
- Close the windows on high pollen days.
- Take a bath once you get home and place the clothes in a laundry basket.
- Invest in a good quality air purifier.
- Give pets a bath after playing outside.
- Keep your shoes outside by the door.
- Clean the carpets, rugs, and upholstery weekly.
- Change your car’s cabin filters at least once a year.
These steps help ensure that allergens won’t accumulate in your home.
2. Try nasal cleaning products
There are nasal cleansing products available on the market. A saltwater sinus flush or nasal irrigation uses saline solution (saltwater) to wash away allergens and mucus from the nasal passages.
You can also make use of items inside your home. If you have a neti pot (miniature pot), you can use it to deliver the saline solution into your nasal passages. Remember to be careful when flushing your sinuses. (Related: Treating your nasal allergies with alternative medicine.)
3. Improve your gut health
Some studies have shown that improving gut microbiome can help reduce allergic reactions. Researchers suggest that there is a close link between gut health and allergic reactions. Most of the immune system is found in the gut – thus, improving gut health may help reduce the inflammatory response to allergens.
Home remedies for seasonal allergy symptoms
Sometimes, it doesn’t matter how many precautions you take. Some of those allergens can still sneak into your system, causing a reaction. Here are some remedies that you can use:
- Butterbur – It is a common herb and has been used in various folk medicinal practices. Some studies have found that butterbur extracts and tablets help suppress seasonal allergic reactions.
- Honey – Honey is known to soothe coughs, which is a common symptom of allergies such as hay fever.
- Turmeric – This spice is often used in various Indian dishes, particularly curry. Turmeric’s primary compound, curcumin, has many known health benefits. One of these is inhibiting allergic reactions.
- Vitamin C – Found in various fruits, vitamin C boosts the immune system, which helps manage histamine, an inflammatory marker for allergic reactions.
- Quercetin – It is a compound found in many plants, including apples, berries, and citrus fruits. Quercetin is a natural bioflavonoid that is believed to have anti-allergy and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Garlic – One study found that fresh garlic suppresses the release of beta-hexosaminidase, a substance that contributes to allergic reactions. It also boosts the immune system and contains quercetin.
- Stinging nettle – This herb is also called “nettle root.” Commonly used as a natural remedy, stinging nettle is believed to counter histamine.
- Bromelain – This is an enzyme commonly found in pineapples. Bromelain supplements have anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve sinus problems and improve digestion.
- Omega-3 fatty acids – These are essential nutrients found in different kind of foods, like chia seeds, walnuts, and flaxseeds. Studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids help protect against allergies and asthma.
Seasonal allergies can be troublesome, but these home remedies can help you address them, so you can enjoy the changing of the seasons.
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