As spring approaches, it brings along with it more than warmer weather. As we begin to change our winter wardrobe from snow pants to shorts, we must also prepare ourselves for the itchy, sniffling problem that is allergy season. If you’re like me, you don’t have time in your busy schedule to deal with the hassle of allergies. I did my own research to find some household remedies to easily combat allergy season’s nuisances. Here are a few remedies that I found to work.
Vitamin C
Enjoying a tall glass of orange juice on a warm spring day is not only refreshing, but is packed with vitamin C. Vitamin C fortifies the body’s immune system, which helps combat seasonal allergies. Ensuring that your body gets enough vitamin C can be an easy way to relieve allergy symptoms.
Tea
A hot cup of tea can make your day better, but did you know that menthol in peppermint tea can work as a decongestant and expectorant? This allows tea to break up mucus and clear nasal passages. Green tea contains methylated epigallocatechin gallate, which is a compound proven to inhibit allergic reactions. Adding nettle leaf to your tea can act as a natural antihistamine that is very effective at inhibiting your body’s ability to produce histamine. It can be mixed with peppermint leaf to make a refreshing allergy tincture. It is suggested that tea drinkers stay away from chamomile however, as it can cause adverse reactions to those allergic to ragweed.
Steam
Inhaling steam can be an effective measure to flush out mucus and moisten dry nasal passages. This can be accomplished in many ways such as a vaporizer or a hot shower. Perhaps the easiest method is to simply pour boiling water into a container, cover your head with a towel like a tent, and inhale deeply through your nose.
For bonus efficacy, try adding eucalyptus oil to the steaming water or floor of the shower. This will help further open your nasal passages and sinuses.
HEPA filters
High-efficiency particulate air or HEPA filters have been shown to reduce reactions to allergens by removing airborne pathogens present in indoor air supplies. Particles such as dust, pollen, and pet dander are blocked by particle-grabbing filter media which provides indoor spaces with fresh, clean air. Portable air cleaners with HEPA filters can purify air in confined spaces, but whole-house systems (HVAC) with HEPA filters are generally more effective and produce more positive results.
Local honey
While this remedy does not have the scientific backing of some other solutions, personal accounts claim that this solution really works. The idea behind consuming local honey suggests that it will help your body adapt to the allergens present in your environment-sort of like a natural allergy “shot.” Bees in your area transfer pollen from flower blossoms to honey. By eating a little honey every day, you’ll gradually become resistant to pollen’s adverse effects. Some people also suggest ingesting bee pollen if local honey cannot be found.
Neti pots
The thought of pouring something into your nose may sound intimidating, but Neti pots have been shown to relieve allergies and sinuses. A Neti pot is filled with a saline solution of salt and warm water. You can use a Neti pot by tilting your head to the side and pouring the solution into one nostril and letting it flow out of the other. Repeat this process through the opposite nostril. Make sure to only use boiled or distilled water.
Saline spray
If you think a Neti pot isn’t for you, try using saline spray. These prepackaged spray bottles are filled with a salt and water mixture that delivers the solution to your nostril easily and effectively. This can sometimes be a simpler and less “messy” solution for allergy relief.
Hypoallergenic pets
While no dog or cat breed has been proven to be 100% hypoallergenic, there are a number of breeds considered to be more suited to those who suffer from allergies. If you have allergies, but still are an animal lover, look into these types of pets to see if they are the right fit for your home.
Allergies affect millions of people every year. It can be a hassle and a nuisance to combat the adverse effects of unclean air. Taking extra preventative measures can save you time and provide comfort in the long run. Don’t let allergy season control your life. Put these home remedies to the test.
Continue feeling better by making sure that you have clean air and water in your home to help combat these allergies and other illnesses that can come from your home. Check out the Discount Filter DA29-00020B to assure clean water.
