There are many reasons to get excited about the Garden State. But here’s the downside: that means we have plants, trees, and pollen. And this season has been miserable, not just for those who always suffer from seasonal allergies, but for those who have never done it before. Almost everyone I know suffers to some degree from itchy eyes, constipation, runny nose, and a host of other seasonal allergy symptoms. And not everyone wants to go the traditional medicine route. Some people want to try a simple natural remedy first to try to relieve at least some of the symptoms. Some of these have always been around, others are relatively new and growing in popularity. Remember, these are not allergy remedies. However, they can make you more comfortable while you wait for this allergy season to end.
- 1
Warm shower / cold compress
One of the most common symptoms of allergies is itchy, watery eyes. Have you tried a warm shower for comfort and cold compresses to relieve the inflammation? This can provide immediate relief from the itchiness. Repeat this as many times as necessary.
- 2
Nasal rinse / spray
Rinse your nose with over-the-counter saline solution, often made with a device called a neti pot. I use another device where you blow water into one nostril and it flows out through the other. Either way, it really helps with congestion by thinning the mucus. These over-the-counter saline sprays can also help thin the mucus in your nose and relieve congestion.
- 3
HEPA filter
A simple solution to your nose and upper airway problems is a HEPA filter. People don’t think of the HEPA filter that often when it comes to allergies, but it really helps remove particles from the air that make you cough, sneeze, and irritate your eyes. A vacuum with a HEPA filter is even better to set a regular vacuum as it prevents the Dustin allergens from blowing all over your home.
- 4th
acupuncture
Before you poo poo this idea, remember that many major health insurance companies pay for acupuncture. It is a legitimate treatment for allergies as it addresses the underlying imbalances in the body. People have found relief from acute symptoms of allergies through acupuncture.
- 5
additions
I know some people who have tried Butternur, a supplement that reduces rhinitis caused by seasonal allergies by blocking histamines. If this doesn’t work for you, other supplements and vitamins such as bromelain-quercetin and simple old vitamin C will also help many people with symptom relief.
- 6th
Apple Cider Vinegar
I know. You’ve heard that before. Although I believe the wonderful properties of apple cider vinegar have been overstated, I know people who have found relief from allergies up to three times a day with a few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and a glass of water with lemon juice. It helps with the symptoms of allergies as well as the symptoms of a cold.
- 7th
Probiotics
Probiotics or something that should be used whether you have allergies or not. They strengthen your immune system and prevent pathogens from growing in your body. Experts believe that allergies are due to your immune system being out of whack and therefore your body being overreacting to two allergens. Try taking probiotics to see if it is helping your allergy symptoms. It can’t hurt, and it’s still good for you.
- 8th
Food sensitivity test
While this is controversial, companies like Everly offer a home food sensitivity test that measures your body’s immune response to 96 foods to let you know what types of foods can cause allergy symptoms. It can’t hurt to see if any of your symptoms are relieved by removing these foods from your diet
- 9
Thorough house cleaning
Sounds pretty obvious, but interestingly, people don’t just think about cleaning the house well. In addition to replacing filters, it removes stains that you don’t always think might be trapping allergens. Clean bookshelves, air vents, and change pillowcases regularly as allergens can be transferred from your hair to your pillow overnight.
