Natural remedies for allergies go back to the roots of our ancestors. What did they do to combat allergy discomfort and how can we learn from the wisdom they have passed on to us?
Seasonal allergies affect millions of people every year, causing symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, and congestion. These allergy symptoms can make daily life uncomfortable and even disrupt productivity. Added pressure and pain in the sinus area can make the situation even worse.
While over-the-counter medications can provide relief, many people are turning to natural remedies as a safer and more sustainable option. These remedies not only alleviate the symptoms of seasonal allergies and sinus issues but also promote overall health and well-being.
In this article, we will discuss some of the most effective natural remedies for managing these conditions.
1. Local Honey
One of the most popular natural remedies for allergies is local honey. It works on the principle of immunotherapy, where consuming small amounts of allergens can train the body’s immune system to be less reactive to them.
Since bees collect pollen from flowers in your area, taking a spoonful of local honey daily can help build immunity against those specific allergens.
How Can Honey Help?
Honey has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.
When it comes to natural remedies for allergies, honey can help provide relieve in the following ways:
- Relieves coughing and throat irritation: Honey is a natural cough suppressant and can soothe an itchy or sore throat.
- Boosts the immune system: Consumption of local raw honey exposes your body to small amounts of pollen, which can help build up immunity to these allergens over time.
- Reduces inflammation: The anti-inflammatory properties of honey can help reduce swelling and irritation in the nasal passages, providing relief from congestion and other symptoms.
How to Use Honey for Seasonal Allergy and Sinus Relief
Here are a few ways you can incorporate honey into your daily routine for seasonal allergy and sinus relief:
- Consume a spoonful of raw, local honey: By consuming a spoonful of raw, local honey each day, you expose your body to small amounts of the allergens in your area. Over time, this can help build up immunity and reduce allergy symptoms.
- Make a honey and lemon drink: Mix together warm water, lemon juice, and a spoonful of honey to create a natural throat-soothing drink. Lemon contains vitamin C, which can also help boost the immune system.
- Use honey as a nasal rinse: Mix together 1 cup of warm water and ÂĽ teaspoon of salt, then add in a teaspoon of honey. Use a neti pot or squeeze bottle to administer the solution into your nostril, allowing it to flow out the other side. This can help clear out any allergens or irritants in your nasal passages.
- Add honey to herbal tea: Drinking herbal tea with a spoonful of honey can help soothe a sore throat and ease congestion. Chamomile and peppermint teas are particularly beneficial for allergies due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Use honey as a face mask: Mix together honey and ground oatmeal to create a natural face mask. Apply it to your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. Honey has antimicrobial properties that can help calm irritated skin and reduce inflammation.
- Include more honey in your diet: In addition to consuming raw, local honey, you can also incorporate it into your diet by using it as a replacement for processed sugars. By reducing inflammation in the body, this can also help alleviate allergy symptoms.
Remember to always consult with your doctor before trying any new natural remedies for allergies. While honey can be beneficial, it is not a substitute for medical treatment.
Best Ginger Lemon Honey Brew Recipe
Ingredients:
- Ginger
- Lemon
- Water
- Honey
Instructions:
Chop up a few 1-inch knobs of ginger. Chop up one lemon. Add to about 3 cups of boiling water. You want enough boiling water to cover the lemon and ginger.
It is best to add the ginger and lemon after the water is already boiling. Cover and let ingredients boil over medium-high heat for 20 minutes. Turn off heat and pour the liquid into a mug. Add a generous amount of honey. Sip on this brew.
2. Essential Oils
Essential oils have been used for centuries to treat various health conditions, including allergies.
Peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender are known for their anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties that can help alleviate seasonal allergy and sinus symptoms.
How to Use Essential Oils for Allergies and Sinus Issues
There are several ways essential oils help as natural remedies for allergies and sinus issues, including:
- Inhalation: Add 5-6 drops of your chosen essential oil to a cold-pressed diffuser as per instructions. Or inhale the scent by applying one drop to palm of hand, circling clockwise 3 times, cupping hands over nose and inhaling deeply, then exhaling. Repeat 3 times.
- Topical application: Dilute 1-2 drops of essential oil with a carrier oil (such as coconut or almond oil) and apply it to the chest, temples, or behind the ears.
- Steam inhalation: Add a few drops of essential oil to a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel, and breathe in the steam for 5-10 minutes.
R.C. by Young Living is a blend of eucalyptus oils and is excellent as a decongestant applied to the chest in conjunction with the Thieves Chest Rub.
R.C. can also be used in a diffuser and put beside the bed at night.
Young Living is known as world leader in essential oils. Their Seed To Seal promise gives you the assurance you are buying the best and safest quality. Buy Young Living Essential Oils Here. They are also amongst the best natural remedies for allergies.
Precautions:
While essential oils can provide relief for seasonal allergies and sinus issues, it’s important to use them safely. Precautions to keep in mind:
- Dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them topically or speak to a health professional who has knowledge of essential oils and can further guide you in application.
- Do not ingest essential oils without consulting a healthcare professional.
- If you experience any adverse reactions, stop using the essential oil and consult a healthcare professional.
3. Neti Pot
What is a Neti Pot?
In the list of natural remedies for allergies, the neti pot is essential. A neti pot is a small jug that appears similar to a teapot. It’s used for irrigation of the nasal passages and sinuses with saline water. This practice has been around for centuries and originated in Ayurvedic medicine.
The goal of using a neti pot is to clear the nasal passages from any irritants, allergens or mucus that may be causing congestion and discomfort. By doing so, it can provide immediate relief for allergy symptoms.
How to Use a Neti Pot
Using a neti pot is simple, but it’s important to follow proper instructions to ensure a safe and effective experience.
Step 1: Prepare the saline solution
The first step is to prepare the saline solution. You can purchase pre-made packets of saline powder that you mix with distilled or boiled water, or you can make your own by dissolving 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized salt in 8 ounces of water. It’s important to use the correct ratio of salt to water to avoid any discomfort or irritation.
Step 2: Position yourself
Position yourself over a sink, tilting your head slightly forward and to one side. This will help the saline solution flow through your nasal passages more easily.
Step 3: Insert the spout
Insert the spout of the neti pot into one nostril, creating a seal so that the solution doesn’t leak out.
Step 4: Pour the saline solution
Slowly pour the saline solution from the neti pot into your nostril. The solution will pass through one nasal passage and come out of the other nostril. This may feel strange at first, but it shouldn’t be painful.
Step 5: Switch sides
After pouring the solution, switch sides and repeat the process in your other nostril.
Step 6: Blow your nose
Once you have used all of the saline solution, gently blow your nose to remove any remaining mucus or irritants that may have been loosened by the irrigation.
Step 7: Clean and dry the neti pot
After use, make sure to clean and dry your neti pot thoroughly. This will help prevent any bacteria from growing inside the pot.
4. Supplements and herbal remedies
Supplements and herbs are excellent natural remedies for allergies. Here is a list of the best one’s to try:
- Quercetin: Quercetin is a natural plant compound found in foods like onions, apples, and green tea. It has strong anti-inflammatory properties and acts as a natural antihistamine, making it an excellent supplement for managing seasonal allergies. You can also find quercetin supplements in health food stores.
- Probiotics: Probiotics, also known as “good bacteria,” can help keep your immune system in check and reduce inflammation caused by seasonal allergies. Incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut into your diet can improve your overall gut health and potentially lessen allergy symptoms.
- Ningxia red by Young Living. Just in conjunction with quercetin, and omega oil, this trio can offer powerful relief.
- Omega oil
- A Vogel Sinna products such as sinus tabs and spray
- Vitamin C and D
5. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points of the body to promote healing.
Natural remedies for allergies show acupuncture to be highly effective in reducing symptoms, including congestion and itchy eyes.
If you are interested in trying acupuncture for your seasonal allergies, make sure to consult with a licensed practitioner.
6. Juicing
Juicing, or extracting the juice from fruits and vegetables, has gained popularity in recent years as a way to boost overall health.
But did you know that juicing can also be beneficial for those dealing with seasonal allergies? It is actually one of the best natural remedies for allergies. Here’s how:
- Boosts Your Immune System: Freshly made fruit and vegetable juices are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help strengthen your immune system. A strong immune system is better equipped to fight off allergens and prevent allergic reactions.
- Provides Allergy-Fighting Nutrients: Certain fruits and vegetables have been shown to have allergy-fighting properties. For example, oranges are high in vitamin C, which has anti-inflammatory effects and can help reduce allergy symptoms. Beets are also known to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help alleviate sinus congestion.
- Hydrates Your Body: Staying hydrated is important for overall health, but it is especially crucial when dealing with allergies. Drinking plenty of fluids can help thin mucus and flush out allergens from your body.
- Reduces Inflammation: Many fruits and vegetables contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce the inflammation and swelling associated with allergies. Ginger, turmeric, and leafy greens are all excellent examples to try.
- Alleviates Sinus Pressure: Juicing certain fruits and vegetables can also help alleviate sinus pressure caused by allergies. Apples, for example, contain quercetin, a natural antihistamine that can help reduce sinus inflammation. Carrots and celery are high in vitamin A, which can help prevent mucus buildup.
So if you suffer from seasonal allergies or sinus allergies, consider incorporating juicing into your daily routine.
Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before making any major changes to your diet.
This anti-inflammatory Juice Recipe is one of my favourite recipes to cut terrible allergy sinus congestion: Dr Axe Anti-Inflammatory Juice Recipe
7. Humidify
Tried, tested and true, humidifying is a top choice in natural remedies for allergies. Before bed, consider having a hot steamy shower to help relieve congestion and unclog sinuses. Adding additional humidity by the bedside at night can be very helpful in relieving nasal congestion.
8. Diet
Consider an anti-inflammatory plant-based diet, even if just temporarily, which can be beneficial for those with seasonal allergies and sinus allergies.
By incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet, removing dairy products which can aggravate allergies, staying hydrated, and incorporating anti-inflammatory spices, you can help alleviate seasonal allergy symptoms, and improve your overall immune health.
Natural remedies for allergies can come in various ways. One natural approach to improved allergy symptoms and managing seasonal and sinus allergies is through diet.
Consuming a plant-based diet, which focuses on whole, unprocessed foods from plants, has been shown to have numerous health benefits. One of these benefits is its potential to alleviate allergy symptoms.
Plant-based foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation in the body.
This is especially beneficial for those with allergies as it can strengthen their response to allergens and reduce their overall symptoms.
Additionally, a plant-based diet is typically low in saturated fat, which has been linked to inflammation and allergies.
By reducing your intake of animal products and incorporating more whole plant foods, you may experience a decrease in allergy attacks.
Anti-inflammatory foods
Focusing on specific plant-based foods known for their anti-inflammatory properties may also provide relief for those with seasonal and sinus allergies making great natural remedies for allergies.
These include leafy greens, such as kale and spinach, which are rich in vitamin C and quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that can reduce allergic reactions.
Other beneficial plant-based foods for allergy sufferers include turmeric, ginger, garlic, and onions.
These spices and herbs have natural anti-inflammatory properties and can be easily incorporated into meals to help alleviate or prevent allergy symptoms.
In addition to incorporating more plant-based foods into your diet, it’s important to stay hydrated and avoid common allergens such as dairy, gluten, and processed foods.
Drinking plenty of water can help thin out mucus and reduce congestion while avoiding trigger foods can prevent further inflammation and discomfort.
Other plant-based benefits
It’s also worth noting that a plant-based diet not only benefits those with allergies but can also improve overall health and prevent chronic diseases.
As always, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet.
So next time you’re struggling with seasonal or sinus allergies, consider reaching for some plant-based options to help alleviate your symptoms.
Not only will you be supporting your body’s natural defence against allergens, but you’ll also be fueling it with nutrient-rich, whole foods.
Best Plant-Based Foods for Allergies
- Leafy Greens – Dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens are rich in vitamins C and E, both of which have anti-inflammatory properties. They also contain other nutrients that can help support the immune system.
- Citrus Fruits – Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are high in vitamin C, which can help reduce allergy symptoms. They also contain flavonoids that act as natural antihistamines.
- Berries – Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. They also contain quercetin, a natural antihistamine.
- Nuts and Seeds – Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. They also contain vitamin E and zinc, both of which can help support the immune system.
- Garlic and Onions – These flavorful vegetables are rich in quercetin, a natural antihistamine that can help alleviate allergy symptoms. They also have antiviral and antibacterial properties that can help keep allergies at bay.
- Turmeric – This spice contains curcumin, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce inflammation in the body and ease allergy symptoms.
- Ginger – Like turmeric, ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce allergy symptoms. It also acts as a natural decongestant, making it beneficial for those with sinus allergies.
- Apples – Apples are a good source of quercetin, making them a natural choice for allergy relief. They also contain fiber and vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system.
- Avocado – This creamy fruit is rich in vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids, both of which have anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains carotenoids, which can help support the immune system.
- Leafy Greens – Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are packed with nutrients that can help combat allergy symptoms. They contain vitamin C, quercetin, and other antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system.
These are the best but not limited to natural remedies for allergies.
9. Home environment
In addition to incorporating a healthy diet, your home environment can also play a crucial role in managing seasonal and sinus allergies.
Here are some tips to make sure your home is allergy-friendly:
- Regularly clean and dust: Dust mites, pet dander, and pollen can easily accumulate in your home, especially in carpets, rugs, and upholstery. Make sure to regularly clean and dust these surfaces to minimize allergens.
- Keep windows closed: While it may be tempting to open the windows for some fresh air, this can also invite pollen and other allergens into your home. Keep your windows closed during peak allergy season to reduce exposure.
- Invest in a good air purifier: An air purifier can help filter out allergens and improve the air quality in your home. Look for one with a HEPA filter, which can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns.
- Use allergy-proof bedding: Encase your pillows, mattress, and box spring in allergen-proof covers to prevent dust mites from settling in.
- Keep pets out of bedrooms: If you have pets, it’s best to keep them out of your bedroom as much as possible. This will help reduce the amount of pet dander in your sleeping space.
Natural remedies for allergies through the home environment can create a more allergy-friendly living space and manage your seasonal and sinus allergies more effectively.
Conclusion of Natural Remedies For Allergies and Sinus
By considering these natural remedies for allergies and making temporary (or permanent) changes to your diet and home environment, you can greatly improve your seasonal and sinus allergies.
Remember to also consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on managing your allergies. With the right tools and knowledge, you can enjoy the changing seasons without being bogged down by
Read How To Transform Your Health In 5 Basic Steps for more ways to improve your health.
Facts:
Statistics
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, seasonal allergies affect around 40 million people in the United States alone. This accounts for approximately 10-30% of adults and up to 40% of children. In Canada, it is estimated that almost one in every six Canadians suffers from seasonal allergies.
Sinus allergies, also known as chronic rhinosinusitis, are believed to affect around 12.5% of the adult population in the United States. This condition is more common in women than men and tends to develop during early adulthood.
Allergy Triggers
Seasonal allergies are triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. These allergens are released into the air during certain times of the year, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
On the other hand, sinus allergies are often triggered by indoor allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and mold. These allergens can cause inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses, leading to congestion, facial pain, and pressure.
Impact on Daily Life
Allergies, both seasonal and sinus, can significantly impact a person’s daily life. It is estimated that allergies result in over 17 million doctor visits per year in the United States alone. The symptoms can affect a person’s ability to work, study, and enjoy outdoor activities.
In terms of financial burden, it is reported that Americans spend over $18 billion annually on allergy-related healthcare costs and over $3.4 billion on non-prescription allergy medications.
