I live in an area where allergies are bad. The pollen count is off the charts daily and people walk around in a haze of over the counter medicines that just do not seem to help. When we began living a more green and clean life I wanted to find ways to help relieve common allergy symptoms. This list of natural allergy remedies come from the heart of dealing with family who suffer from seasonal and year-long allergies.
Local Raw Buckwheat Honey
Why local? Your local bees are making honey with the same pollen you are allergic to. Overtime your body will begin to develop an immunity to the pollen, much like mini allergy shots without all the unpleasantness. Just know that this honey is not super sweet like the kind in the teddy bear. It is more molassesy, so I would suggest adding it small amounts to your food until you get use to the taste. Remember: no honey for babies under a year old
Apple Cider Vinegar Drink
We try to use this daily to combat allergy symptoms before they can start. Also, I know others who have pet dander allergies that swear by this drink. It keeps them from having allergic reactions to animals.
- 1 tbsp local honey (doesn't have to be buckwheat, you get the sweeter kind for this!)
- 1tbsp unfiltered organic apple cider vinegar (acts as an anti-histamine)
- Place the honey and vinegar in the glass of your choice and mix with warm water. Stir until it all dissolves together nicely and enjoy.
What do you do when you are in full blown allergy attack and absolutely miserable? I grab my Aller-Ease, 2 tbsp of this and within a few minutes I am good to go. It tastes like V8 juice so if that's a little too strong for you, they recommend mixing it into your juice. Aller-Ease reduces nasal congestion, inhibits the release of histamines, and protects sensitive nasal tissues.
Saline Spray
The often forgotten allergy remedy. Saline Spray cleans out the sinuses, getting out any trapped allergens. My husbands ENT doctor told him to stop taking allergy medicine and just use a simple saline spray (the doctor admitted the medicines are useless). I can tell you he breathes better and no longer snores at night!
Essential Oils
You have probably heard of essential oils, they are gaining ground lately and with good reason. Oils are all around health remedies but these are specific to allergies.
- Diffusers:
- Peppermint, lavender, and lemon can be used in a diffuser. They will help reduce pollen and allergens.
- Decongestants:
- Peppermint, lavender, and lemon will also work as decongestants when ingested. Place 1 drop in your mouth (mix with water if too strong), swish for 15 seconds then swallow.
- Rashes:
- Lavender and chamomile when applied to the affected area will provide relief of rash symptoms. (Also raw honey will work too)
My hope is that these remedies will provide you some relief during those days when the pollen count is code stay inside and lock your doors! Leave me a comment and let me know how these have helped you or any natural tricks you have up your sleeves.
Please note: I am not a doctor, I am just someone who occasionally suffers from allergy attacks and who has family and friends who suffer from severe allergies. I can only tell you what has worked from them and for myself. If you suffer from food allergies you might want to consult a doctor or do extra research into if any of these remedies (especially the oils) might trigger an allergic response.
