The weather is finally taking a turn for the better and you can swap out your big puffy jackets for tank tops and running shorts. The list of springtime activities is endless: lunchtime walks in Cache, afternoon bike rides and hikes up Josie’s Ridge. However, with warmer weather comes allergy season, and instead of enjoying the trails, you’re stuck inside.
Luckily, antihistamines and nasal sprays aren’t your only option for allergy relief. There are many holistic, all-natural ways to help manage your symptoms. Many of these remedies are household staples and are most likely stocked in your kitchen. Take a look at the list below for some of the best alternatives to allergy medications.
1. Local honey
There isn’t much scientific evidence to back this one, but there seems to be a lot of anecdotal evidence from people who have tried it. The theory is that consuming local honey from where you live will help your body adapt to the allergens in the environment. This is supposed to work like a natural allergy “shot” and doesn’t seem to have a downside. Try Sweet Life Honey, available at the Jackson Whole Grocer.
2. Air purification
The air in your home is full of allergens, from pollen to dust to pet dander. One simple fix is to clean the air you breathe with an air conditioning unit fitted with filters. You might notice that any time you go to a shop fitted with air conditioning, your running nose and itchy eyes become much calmer – well the same applies to your home! By buying AC units for sale and installing just one or two in the living room and bedroom, you can dramatically clean up the air you’re breathing, which can be especially useful at night when you’re trying to sleep.
3. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an age-old remedy that is often recommended for a variety of health conditions. I’ve personally used it for allergy relief (and heartburn relief) with great success. Its ability to reduce mucous production and cleanse the lymphatic system makes it extremely beneficial for the reduction of allergy symptoms.
4. Bee pollen
Bee pollen is made of flower pollen, which bees collect, and then turn it into small particles using saliva and honey. The idea is that when you digest pollen on a daily basis, it will desensitize your immune system over time. Plus, it’s full of nutrients like protein, amino acids and a litany of vitamins. Bee pollen is best eaten when added to your morning smoothie.
5. Probiotics
It’s now becoming common knowledge that a strong immune system starts with a healthy gut. More than 80 percent of your immune function is stored in your gastrointestinal tract! It should be no wonder that research keeps surfacing that links probiotic supplements to reduced risk of allergies. Many people purchase supplements containing probiotics from websites like ActivatedYou in order to help their gut health, and result in finding the benefit they have on allergies.
Also, be sure to take precautions with a few simple steps. Block yourself from direct contact with potential triggers by wearing sunglasses and a hat when you’re outside and wash your hands when you come back inside. Keep in mind that some of these options may not work for everyone. If your best bet against allergies is to pop a Claritin, do it, but supplement with more holistic options as well!
