Spring has arrived, along with all of the flowers and the pollinators that tend to stir up our allergies each year. But instead of heading to your local pharmacy for Claritin or Zyrtec, try something different this season. Whether you suffer from indoor or outdoor allergies, these are home remedies that are safe and easy to use for fast allergy relief. You can also use these remedies with your over the counter allergy medicine to cut down on how much you use.
Safe Home Remedies for Allergies
Honey:
Start the season off by building up your immunity. Have a little honey in your tea or on a spoon to help desensitize you to the pollens in your environment. Add a squeeze of lemon for an extra boost of antioxidants.
Quercetin:
Add in a few more apples and red onions to your diet. Quercetin is an antioxidant found in the skin of these and other fruits and vegetables. It inhibits the release of histamine and has anti-inflammatory properties. Quercetin can also be taken in capsule form. Check labels for the correct dosage or run it by your doctor.
The Neti Pot:
This is an ancient remedy that really works! This will clear out the nose of dust and pollen among other irritants as well as ease a sore nose. Follow the instructions for your Neti pot.
Steam Inhalations:
Another ancient remedy that really works is steam! Fill a heat safe bowl with boiling water and add a few drops of essential oil (optional). Try Eucalyptus and Peppermint, they both have healing properties and will clear out congestion caught in the chest.
Teas:
Nettle and Elderberry tea are good for allergies. Nettle has been used for centuries to aid respiratory allergies and mucus buildup. Elderberry tea also helps to clear the chest of mucus that builds up and help to prevent possible infection.
Try one or all of the remedies listed above to suit your needs. Almost everything can be found in your local health food store and/or pharmacy.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Sources:
Jegtvig, Shereen, September 1, 2010, “Quercetin,” Accessed March 16, 2011
“Nettle Tea Benefits,” Accessed March 16, 2011
"Elderberry - Uses and Benefits," Accessed March 23, 2011
Stefanie Dewysockie - I write about what interests me and based on my education. I always make sure that my sources are the best I can find.
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