Natural Remedies for Seasonal Allergies: Breathe Easier Naturally

Coach Patty, HealthSmart! Kids
Mar 1, 2023
4 min read

Updated: 16 hours ago

a little boy with allergies wiping his nose with a tissue outside next to a blooming tree

Allergy season is hitting harder than ever, and if it feels like it’s lasting longer each year, you're not imagining it. With fluctuating weather patterns and rising pollen levels, allergy seasons are extending and affecting more people. Many are experiencing symptoms earlier in the season than usual, and with more intensity than ever before. If you're already feeling the effects, you're not alone.

With pollen levels peaking earlier than usual, it can make it tough to enjoy the natural beauty of spring. Today, we'll explore practical steps you can take to reduce the impact of these higher pollen counts, helping you minimize your symptoms and still embrace the season.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever, affect millions of people every year.

When you have allergies, it means your body's defense system gets super sensitive to things like pollen, dust mites, or pet fur. This can make you sneeze a lot, have a runny or stuffy nose, cough, or get itchy eyes. Sometimes, allergies can even make you feel tired or give you headaches.

Seasonal allergies can cause different symptoms for different people, ranging from just a little sniffle to feeling really uncomfortable. Some people might have trouble breathing, feel like their chest is tight, or even get hives. If you notice any of these things, it's important to talk to your doctor or an allergy specialist for help.

Different Causes of Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies are triggered by factors like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold. If you live in an area with high pollen levels, it's important to stay informed about the pollen count and take steps to minimize your exposure. Some people may also have sensitivities to certain foods or medications, so if you're experiencing allergy symptoms, it's a good idea to consult with your doctor to pinpoint the cause.

For those managing seasonal allergies, the key to relief is making adjustments in your environment. This includes avoiding triggers, preventing symptoms, and using effective treatments that work for you.

Prevention and Treatment Strategies

The best way to manage your allergies is to take preventive steps and use the right treatments. There are a number of strategies you can use to reduce your exposure to allergens, such as:

Wearing a face mask when outside
Washing your clothes and bedding regularly
Vacuuming and dusting your home regularly
Keeping windows closed
Avoiding high-pollen areas
Staying indoors during high pollen times

In addition to reducing your exposure to allergens, there are several treatments available to help you control your allergies. These include:

Over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines
Prescription medications, such as corticosteroids
Allergy shots
Natural remedies, including supplements

Natural Remedies for Seasonal Allergies

There are several natural remedies for seasonal allergies that can help you manage your symptoms, including:

Quercetin: Quercetin is a natural compound found in plants that acts as a powerful antioxidant. It helps prevent your immune cells from releasing histamines, the chemicals responsible for triggering allergic reactions. Scientists believe quercetin may help ease those familiar allergy symptoms. While different supplements work for different people, we can certainly vouch for quercetin's effectiveness—it’s a must-have in our home during allergy season.
Probiotics: Probiotics are live, healthy bacteria that can help strengthen your immune system and reduce your body’s response to allergens. Quality is everything here. Probiotics should typically be refrigerated for best efficacy.
Honey: Eating raw, local honey might help your body get used to pollen because it has tiny amounts of pollen in it. It can also help soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that has antihistamine properties and can help reduce inflammation and boost your immune system.
Nettle tea: Nettle tea is made from stinging nettle leaves, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. It can help reduce inflammation, as well as the symptoms of seasonal allergies.
Olive Leaf Extract: Olive leaf extract is an herb that has also demonstrated the ability to act as an antihistamine to help reduce allergy symptoms. It can interfere with some medications so always talk with your qualified health care provider to see what may be right for you.

A plate of healthy vegetables beans and quinoa

Diet and Lifestyle Changes

Making simple changes to your diet and lifestyle can also help you manage your allergies. These include:

Eating a healthy, balanced diet that’s low in sugar and processed foods
Avoiding foods that you’re allergic to
Staying hydrated
Exercising regularly
Avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke
Getting enough sleep

Over-the-Counter Medications

Over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines, are often used to manage the symptoms of seasonal allergies. These medications work by blocking the body’s histamine response, thereby reducing the severity of your symptoms.

It’s important to talk to your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications. Some medications may cause side effects, including drowsiness, dry mouth, and nausea.

Consultation with an Allergy Specialist

If your allergies are severe and you’re not getting relief from over-the-counter medications, it’s important to talk to your doctor or an allergy specialist.

An allergy specialist can help you identify the cause of your allergies and develop an individualized treatment plan.

Allergy-Proofing Your Home

Finally, it’s important to take steps to allergy-proof your home. This means reducing your exposure to allergens, such as dust mites, pet dander, and mold. To do this, you can:

Vacuum and dust regularly
Use a dehumidifier to reduce mold growth
Wash your bedding regularly
Avoid carpeting, as it can trap allergens
Use a quality HEPA air purifier
Keep pets out of the bedroom

Wrapping Up

Dealing with seasonal allergies can be tough, but there are things you can do to make it easier.

You can try different ways to avoid allergens and lessen your symptoms. This might include changing your surroundings, using treatments, or trying natural remedies.

If your allergies are really bad, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor or an allergy specialist. They can figure out what's causing your allergies and make a plan just for you. By managing your allergies and making changes in your surroundings, you can enjoy springtime without feeling miserable.