Tame Seasonal Allergies Naturally
Tis the season—for sneezing, wheezing, and extra tissues. Allergy season is here, and like most years it's wreaking havoc on many of us. But before you reach for the over-the-counter or prescription medications you've relied upon in the past, try these natural solutions for a clearer head.
Neti pots
These hard-working, adorable mini teapots have been used for centuries to clear nasal passages. They essentially work by slowly dripping saline solution into and through the nose. As the solution travels through the nasal cavity, it removes mucous, pollen, and other allergens. Whenever anyone in my family gets congested from allergies and colds, we immediately reach for the neti pot.
Local honey
Honey is delicious, nutritious—and helpful for minimizing seasonal allergies. Eating local honey throughout allergy season and beyond can help our bodies acclimate to the types of pollen that are prevalent where we live. Over time, this sensitivity can lessen, ideally leading to less severe allergy symptoms.
Apple cider vinegar
This tonic shows up almost every time I write about natural solutions to common conditions—and for good reason. It gives the overall immune system a boost, but more specifically it can help to break down mucus and support drainage of the lymphatic system. A few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar diluted with water daily is all it might take to reduce allergy-related congestion—all while offering additional health benefits.
Filter out the allergens
During allergy season, it can feel like there's just as much pollen inside the home as outside. We carry it inside on our clothes and our pets, so it's actually not too far from the truth! Aside from keeping windows and doors shut permanently, it's pretty impossible to avoid bringing pollen inside. However, a HEPA filter can help by trapping pollen and other airborne irritants, from dust to pet dander.
The best essential oils for allergies
Eucalyptus oil is naturally antimicrobial. Frankincense oil has been studied to help prevent perennial allergic rhinitis. The list goes on for what essential oils can do to help improve allergies. For years, my family has used TriEase softgels to reduce the impact of seasonal allergies. They include lemon essential oil, which is helpful for improving respiratory discomfort; lavender essential oil, known for its calming effects; and peppermint, which supports respiratory function and has been shown to reduce bronchial inflammation.
Chiropractic
Getting regular adjustments can not only help improve your spinal alignment and overall health, but it can also improve the communication that occurs between the brain and spinal cord, which is essential for proper immune and respiratory functions. Preventing and fixing these misalignments can boost immunity and also help regulate histamine and cortisol levels, especially during allergy season.
When all else fails
Like most natural alternatives to traditional medications, these solutions aren't given a FDA stamp of approval—but that doesn't mean they don't work. That said, they are more intended for those suffering from milder seasonal allergies. More severe cases warrant a trip to the allergist, who can help with both traditional and natural solutions.
If the information in this article seemed useful, the articles on Building Your Own Natural First Aid Kit goes into more detail about ways to naturally treat common health issues.