Hello, allergy sufferers! Welcome to the fall allergy season. But don't stress; help is here. Natural remedies can reduce symptoms and improve how your immune system resists seasonal allergy attacks.
Hay fever is a term for both seasonal and perennial rhinitis. It is the most common immune system disorder in the U.S. and affects approximately 35 million Americans. In the fall, ragweed pollen is the most common trigger allergen. Still, other triggers include dust mites, cockroaches, fungi and mold spores, and pet dander.
You may be all too aware of the symptoms, including a runny nose, watery, itchy eyes, sneezing, and coughing. These symptoms can be treated with antihistamines or other medications, but that can get expensive, and some have side effects. So here are a few natural remedies to try and see which work for you.
Caution: Always check with your doctor before starting or stopping any medications or supplements.
Garlic: Chemical compounds in garlic help thin mucus and reduce sneezing, congestion, and other symptoms.
To use:
- Finely mince a clove of raw garlic.
- Add it to water, applesauce, or orange juice.
- Consume.
This pungent herb's aroma and intense flavor will help clear nasal congestion. Ensure you have food in your stomach before ingesting raw garlic, or nausea may ensue.
Pure Lavender Oil: Lavender is excellent for aromatherapy to relieve congestion and other allergy symptoms. The scent-filled molecules act as natural antihistamines and help to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages.
To use: Add one or two drops of pure lavender oil to a handkerchief or towel.
Take a deep sniff every few minutes when you have an allergy flare-up.
Add pure lavender oil to a hot bath and soak for relief. Not only will this help to open the nasal passages, but it will also help reduce stress and act as a natural sleep aid.
Fish Oil and Omega-3s: Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil have been shown to reduce inflammation throughout the body. It can alleviate allergy symptoms by reducing inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages.
To use: Take a minimum of 1,000 mg daily. It should contain at least 500 mg of EPA and 250 mg of DHA per capsule. Check with your doctor, especially if you are taking a blood-thinning medication such as warfarin. Using both together could increase the risk of bleeding.
