It’s that time of year–flowers are blooming, trees are returning to life, and allergens of every kind are pushing their way through the soil. Having seasonal allergies is the worst, and being reliant on store-brand drugs can be a serious hindrance. Some make you sleepy, some have other side effects, and most are pretty expensive. So we found some natural ways to relieve your allergies without breaking the bank or relying on pharmaceuticals.
1. Start and end your day with a saline rinse
Allergens get caught in your nasal cavities and stick around, causing your symptoms for days after you are originally exposed. A twice-daily saline rinse clears out dust, pollen, and other allergens that may be hanging around. This won’t completely solve your allergies, but it’s a good way to reduce your dependency and feel better all around.
2. Acupuncture
While western science isn’t 100% sure why it works, acupuncture has been seen to help allergy sufferers need less medicine and experience fewer symptoms. In a study by Annals of Internal Medicine, three groups of people suffering hay fever were put through a research process. A third received no treatment, a third received a placebo or false treatment, and a third received acupuncture. Those who got acupuncture had more symptom relief and needed less medicine than either of the other groups. It most likely has to do with anti-inflammatory soothing processes and bolstering of the immune system.
3. Butterbur
Butterbur is an herb that has been used medicinally for many centuries. Find an FDA-Approved leaf extract to decrease your nasal congestion when your hay fever is at its peak. Studies have found this herb can be as effective as Zyrtec and Allegra!
4. Turmeric
This bright yellow spice found in curries and other Indian dishes contains decongestant properties and immune-bolstering compounds like curcumin. It has been used to ward off colds, shorten bouts of illness, and combat allergies for centuries.
5. Clean Your Space
No matter what you do, if your living space is infested with pollen, dust, and other allergens, you’re going to have a bad time. Change your clothes and shower when you get home to get allergens away from your skin. Change the air filters in your car, humidifier, and air vents. And consider investing in a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air filter) for your vacuum to stop allergens from being kicked up every time you clean.
Let us know if you have any tried-and-true natural allergy relief methods. Happy Spring!
