My favorite natural remedies for support during allergy season

When allergy season rolls around, it can certainly put a damper on things. Sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose are no fun. But did you know that there are plenty of natural ways to find relief without resorting to medication? From eating local honey to drinking herbal tea, there are lots of tried-and-true methods that people swear by. The key is to find what works for you. So go ahead and experiment – you might just find that your new favorite allergy hack is something you never would have thought of before.

1. Acupuncture

You may have heard of acupuncture being used for pain relief or relaxation, but did you know it can also help with allergies? Allergies can be a real nuisance - constant sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose can make it hard to focus on anything else. Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. When it comes to allergies, acupuncture can help by reducing inflammation and regulating the immune system. It's a safe and natural alternative to traditional allergy medications, and many people find it to be effective. So if you're tired of relying on antihistamines, give acupuncture a try and see if it makes a difference for you.

2. Local honey helps build tolerance (immunotherapy) and is great when your throat is sore. 

We all know how much allergies can suck the life out of us. Sneezing, coughing, congestion - you name it! However, did you know that local honey can actually help build your tolerance to allergies? Yes, you read that right. According to various studies, consuming local honey strengthens your immune system and helps alleviate allergy symptoms. Plus, it's a delicious and natural remedy for that sore throat you might get from allergies or a cold. So the next time you're feeling like a walking pharmacy with all your allergy meds, grab a jar of local honey and indulge in its sweet goodness. 

3. Drink teas to lower histamine levels and support the immune system.

Did you know that drinking herbal teas can actually help lower your histamine levels and support your immune system? It's true! You see, histamines are the chemicals in our bodies that cause allergic reactions. So if you suffer from allergies or have an overactive immune system, drinking certain natural herbal teas can help alleviate your symptoms. Plus, herbal teas are just so delicious and relaxing to sip on, making it a win-win situation. So go ahead, brew yourself a cup of chamomile, nettle, or ginger tea and let your body reap the benefits. 

4.  Eat anti-inflammatory foods.  

Did you know that what you eat could be impacting your allergies? It turns out that when there is inflammation already in your body, those pesky allergies can become even worse. So, if you find yourself constantly blowing your nose and rubbing your eyes, it might be time to evaluate your diet. Unfortunately, some of our favorite foods might be worsening our symptoms. Fried foods, meats, and anything high in saturated or trans fats should be avoided. Instead, try incorporating more garlic (high in quercitin), pineapple and papaya (containing bromelain), and spirulina into your meals. And of course, don't forget about the power of fruits and veggies. Studies have shown that people who eat more of these anti-inflammatory foods tend to have fewer allergy symptoms overall. So, go ahead and load up on the good stuff!

5. Take supportive supplements.

Quercitin, is a plant pigment found in many fruits and vegetables that has natural anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin C can help boost your immune system and reduce inflammation, while vitamin D can help regulate the immune system. Probiotics can support a healthy gut microbiome, which can help reduce allergy symptoms. Finally, golden turmeric has been shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. So if you're looking for a natural way to get some relief from your allergies, try incorporating one or more of these supplements into your daily routine. 

6. Support digestion specifically.

Did you know that taking care of your digestion can actually help reduce allergies? It's true! Investing in supplements like Parafree, Digest & Cleanse, Sulfurzyme, Enzymes, probiotics & pre-biotics and consuming Ningxia Red can help keep your gut healthy and ward off any pesky parasites. Let's not forget the importance of, uh, pooping. Regular bowel movements are crucial for removing toxins and keeping your body functioning properly. So, if you're looking for a natural way to reduce your allergy symptoms, start by supporting your gut health. 

7. Use herbal remedies.

There are a handful of herbs out there that are known to reduce allergy symptoms. Horehound, goldenrod, butterbur, horseradish, mullein leaf, stinging nettle leaf, rosemary, and turmeric are all great options. These herbs work by reducing inflammation in the body and can even help to prevent allergic reactions from occurring in the first place. So, instead of relying on over-the-counter medications, why not try incorporating some of these herbs into your routine?

8. Breathe in essential oils.

You know how frustrating and uncomfortable it can be to constantly deal with symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and a scratchy throat. Luckily, there may be a natural solution to your seasonal woes: essential oils. With options like peppermint, eucalyptus, frankincense, sandalwood, ravensara, rosemary, lavender, roman chamomile, tea tree, lemon, basil, copaiba, thieves, deep relief, breathe again, RC, Raven, goldenrod, and Season Essentials, essential oils offer a natural and potentially effective way to feel comfortable. Whether you prefer applying them topically or diffusing them in your home, incorporating essential oils into your routine could be a game-changer.  This has been huge for us. Several of these are available together in a discounted bundle, too! 

9. Try homeopathy.

 While there are plenty of treatments out there to help alleviate your symptoms, have you ever considered homeopathy? Homeopathy is an all natural approach to healing that uses highly dilute substances to stimulate the body's natural self healing process. Specific remedies like allium cepa, arsenicum album, gelsemium, kali carb, ipecac, and natrum muriaticum have been found to be helpful for reducing allergy symptoms. And if you're looking for a combo option, there are plenty of all-natural allergy relief combinations out there that can help. Give homeopathy a try and you may be surprised at just how effective it can be.

By taking small steps like using natural remedies, drinking herbal teas, and consuming anti-inflammatory foods, you can avoid those dreaded allergies that come around every spring. Not only are these natural solutions for allergies easy and effective, but they can also make us enjoy the peace and beauty of nature rather than dread it! It's so hard not to be excited by blossom-filled trees and vibrant green grass; give yourself the gift of barreling headfirst into spring with all your allergies under control this year!

Find my seasonal hacks, here.