Natural Remedies for Seasonal Allergies

It is March! So you know what that means! Spring is here. Or right around the corner. Which means, its allergy time! I know, I know, most of us aren’t exactly excited about allergy season. But along with the pollen and insects and grass that spring brings, it also offers some natural ways to fight off the sneezing, itching, and runny noses.

According to the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America, 1 in 5 people, or about 50 million Americans, live with allergies. Whether it be seasonal allergies, food allergies, or another kind, the chances are incredibly high that you know someone living with allergies.

Most Americans who struggle with the issues caused by allergies are treated with pharmaceuticals, such as Benadryl, Claritin, or other prescription medications. While these medications can help with allergy symptoms, some find that the prescriptions can further aggravate the symptoms, while others find that the medicines treating the allergy create new symptoms to deal with, such as fatigue.

Fortunately, there are natural remedies that do not bring other side effects. In particular everyday foods we eat, there are natural compounds that help combat allergies. This antioxidant, called quercetin, is abundant in certain fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Eating foods high in this compound helps to reduce mast cell activity, which soothes symptoms such as a runny nose and sneezing. It is best used as a long-term remedy, and many people begin taking it 4-6 weeks before allergy season arrives.

What is interesting about quercetin is that multiple researchers have found evidence of its effectiveness. It is believed that it calms down the hyperactivity of the airways. The compound is so powerful that Iranian researchers have proven that it can help control peanut allergies (the leading cause of life-threatening/fatal allergy attacks). However, many sources agree that quercetin should be used as a long-term remedy as it may take several months before it begins to work.

Here are some great ways to boost your quercetin levels:

Apples!

Yup, you read that right! Who says that treating your allergies can’t be tasty? Apples are packed with tons of antioxidants, which fight inflammation and prevent cellular damage. No worries if you can’t find apples at your grocery store all year. Pick up a jar of applesauce and be on your way!

Honey!

There have been many studies on the effects of local honey and the human body, and so far so good. One study showed that a single dose of honey before bedtime diminished coughs and discomfort experienced by children. Another study found that local honey works like an allergy shot, helping your body develop a tolerance to local allergens.

Turmeric!

What can’t this little spice do? Known for its anti-inflammatory abilities, turmeric is a mast cell stabilizer. Because of the spice’s long history of aiding health, there are hundreds of recipes out there allowing you to be more healthy and eat delicious food.

Nettle Leaf!

This natural remedy is far less known compared to others on this list. However, nettle leaf can be very effective at naturally blocking the body’s ability to produce allergy-causing compounds and reactions. The most effective option of this remedy is tiny capsules made from dried nettle leaves. However, there are other ways of ingesting it. For example, it is often mixed with peppermint leaf and sometimes red raspberry leaf to make a refreshing allergy relief tea.