Natural relief for seasonal allergies
Posted April 2, 2024
Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever, are allergic reactions that occur when outdoor plants release pollen into the air. Common triggers include pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. If you’re susceptible to allergic sensitivities, your immune system will react to these triggers by releasing histamine and other chemicals that cause allergy symptoms.
Symptoms can include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Itchy throat or ears
- Coughing
- Fatigue
Seasonal allergies can sometimes exacerbate asthma, leading to wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
Evidence suggests that seasonal allergies are becoming more prevalent and severe in many parts of the world. Factors contributing to this increase include climate change, air pollution, urbanization, and what is known as the Hygiene Hypothesis. Some researcher shows that increased hygiene and reduced exposure to microbial diversity in early childhood may contribute to the development of allergies by skewing the immune system towards a response associated with allergic reactions.
Managing seasonal allergies often involves avoiding allergens when possible and using antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, decongestants, and allergy shots (immunotherapy) to alleviate symptoms. However, it is possible to moderate or relieve seasonal allergies in natural ways.
Natural methods to relieve allergies include the immunotherapy approach of consuming local honey, the natural relief of congestion symptoms, and herbal supplements known to reduce histamine response.
How local honey helps reduce seasonal allergy symptoms
Eating local honey is a time-honored natural remedy for seasonal allergies due to the concept of immunotherapy. When you consume small amounts of this local pollen through honey, your immune system recognizes it as harmless. Over time, regular exposure to these small amounts of pollen may help reduce the immune system’s overreaction to pollen, which causes allergy symptoms.
Natural relief for existing allergy symptoms
Congestion is uncomfortable, whether due to allergies, a cold, or sinusitis. Here are some natural remedies to help relieve congestion:
Saline rinse: Rinsing your nasal passages with a saline solution using a Neti pot can help clear out allergens and mucus, relieving congestion and sinus pressure.
Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or a warm shower can help clear nasal passages and soothe irritated sinuses.
Eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils: Eucalyptus oil contains menthol, which helps to open up congested airways and relieve sinus pressure. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to hot water, inhale the steam, or use it in a diffuser. Peppermint oil has similar decongestant properties to eucalyptus oil and can help clear nasal passages.
Herbal teas: Herbal teas such as chamomile, ginger, or peppermint can relieve congestion and soothe irritated throats.
Supplemental herbs to combat a histamine response
Several herbs have been traditionally used to help alleviate symptoms of seasonal allergies. While scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness may vary, many people find relief from incorporating these herbs into their allergy management routine. Here are some herbs commonly used for seasonal allergies:
- Stinging Nettle
- Butterbur (Choosing a product with potentially harmful chemicals removed is essential.)
- Ginger
- Turmeric
- Quercetin (Foods rich in quercetin include apples, onions, citrus fruits, and parsley.)
- Eyebright
- Chamomile
- Ginkgo Biloba
These natural remedies can help alleviate congestion and provide relief from discomfort. However, if your congestion persists or worsens, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.