How to Relieve Allergies Naturally

Sneezing, wheezing and runny noses; itchy, watery, red eyes; headaches, rashes and hives. These are just some of the symptoms that more than 35 million Americans face each year. Though allergy medications are helpful, if you want to treat these symptoms naturally, follow these simple tips.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. European herb butterbur (Petasites hybridus). Research suggests this supplement can be as effective as a popular antihistamine drug for controlling symptoms of hay fever, without the traditional symptom of drowsiness that sometimes occurs. Butterbur has also been shown to relieve grass allergy symptoms.
2. Saline (salt water) nasal spray. This remedy helps wash out pollen and reduce or thin mucous.
3. Tonic made from the herb goldenseal. The goldenseal has astringent and local antibacterial properties which can aid the saline nasal spray in reducing sinus symptoms.
4. Grape seed extract and a flavonoid compound known as quercetin, particularly in conjunction with vitamin C, have been shown to reduce allergy symptoms.
5. Hot, spicy foods. Experts not that the spicier the dish, the more
   likely it is to thin mucous secretions, ultimately helping you clear nasal passages. Frequently recommended spices for this purpose include cayenne pepper, hot ginger, fenugreek, onion and garlic.
6. One NYU physician quoted by WebMD also recommends avoiding melon, banana, cucumber, sunflower seeds, chamomile, and any herbal supplements containing Echinacea if you suffer from pollen allergies. According to him, these foods can aggravate your allergy symptoms.

Tips & Warnings

• Experts also recommend nontraditional therapies such as acupuncture to reduce or relieve allergy symptoms.
• If any supplements cause you more problems, immediately stop taking them and call your doctor.