Seasonal allergies can be a real pain. Not only do you have to deal with the inconvenience of avoiding allergens outdoors, but allergies can take a real toll on your nose, eyes, and head. When the world starts to bloom in the spring, many people are forced to head indoors to avoid having unpleasant allergy attacks.
Natural allergens are particles of dust, pollens, mold, ragweed, or grass. These particles, often called allergens or pathogens, get breathed into the body, causing an allergic reaction. Your immune system detects these types of particles and creates a histamine reaction to fight off the irritation. Your body’s natural protection can be very uncomfortable, including symptoms like a stuffy, runny nose, red itchy eyes, rashes, and headaches.
If you are one of the millions of people who suffer from seasonal allergies, you may already be dreading the upcoming spring season. Knowing when to prepare for allergy season is half the battle.
Let’s look at a few natural ways to ease your seasonal allergies that will let you get more enjoyment about the spring.
Rinse Your Nose
Much of the allergens and pathogens that cause allergic reactions enter your body through the nose and attach themselves to the mucous membranes of your nose. Clearing out the nose often during the allergy season is an effective way to limit your exposure. Blowing your nose can help, but rinsing out your nasal cavities several times a day can be more effective. Using a nasal rinsing spray or a Nettie Pot filled with saline solution can help rinse your nose clean of allergens.
Apple Cider Vinegar
For generations, apple cider vinegar has been used to help improve general wellness. Apple cider vinegar can help to relieve allergy symptoms by giving your immune system a boost. It can also break up mucus and phlegm, relieving the tension and pain in the nasal cavity caused by allergens. By mixing a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water two or three times daily, you can significantly reduce your allergy suffering.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been used in the Asian world for centuries to alleviate many illnesses and chronic pain. Acupuncture works to correct particular imbalances in the body that are causing illness. If you are struggling with your allergies, trying acupuncture could relieve your symptoms and give your immune system a boost.
Probiotics
Allergies are caused when there is an imbalance in your body’s reaction to certain irritants and stimuli. It is believed that the presence of good bacteria in your gut can help to bring your immune system backup to better fight off allergens and pathogens. Adding a daily yogurt to your diet could help to reduce your seasonal allergies.
HEPA Filters
Prevention could be the key to reducing your seasonal allergies. Since most people breathe in pollen, dust, and other common allergens, it makes sense that cleaning your air would help keep allergies at bay. Adding a good quality HEPA filter to your HVAC system can significantly reduce the number of allergens in your home.
No one wants to spend the glorious days of spring hiding indoors hiding from potential allergens. By taking action and following these tips, you can get a jump on controlling your allergies before they control you.