How to Overcome Seasonal Allergies Without Medication

Allergies are the result of an immune system's reaction to foreign substances in the environment called allergens. People with allergies have hyper-active immune systems, which react to normally harmless substances--such as pollen or grass--as if the body were being attacked. Allergies are usually inherited, and common allergens include pollen, animal dander, food, dust mites, mold and certain medications. While some people suffer from allergies year-round, others suffer only from seasonal allergies based on certain triggers at certain times of the year. Learn how to take a more holistic approach to seasonal allergies and overcome them without the use of medication.

Things You'll Need

• Natural histamines
• Saline nasal spray

Instructions

1. Know your triggers and do your best to avoid them. If you have a food allergy, avoid foods that contain certain products, such as milk or peanuts. If animal dander sets you off, avoid having pets or staying in homes where pets live. Avoid going outdoors as much as possible at the times of year your allergies are most problematic.

2. Consider natural remedies and herbal substances. Many substances found in nature, such as the European herb butterbur and goldenseal herb tonics, act as natural histamines to relieve allergy symptoms. Saline nasal sprays are also useful in treating seasonal allergies.

3. Change your diet. Grape seed extract, which is found in red wine, has been found effective in reducing seasonal allergy symptoms, particularly taken in conjunction with vitamin C. Quercetin, a flavonoid compound found in capers, apples, red grapes, citrus fruits, broccoli and green leafy vegetables, has also been proven to help relieve allergy symptoms. Both grape seed extract and Quercetin are available as supplements.

4. Get spicy. Preparing and eating hot, spicy foods can also help you treat seasonal allergies without the use of medication. Mexican and Thai foods, along with common spices like cayenne pepper, hot ginger, fenugreek, onion and garlic have proven effective at reducing allergy symptoms.

5. Consider acupuncture. This ancient Chinese medical practice, based on the idea that stimulating specific points on the outside of the body can initiate changes inside it, is thought to stimulate the immune system and provide relief from seasonal allergies.

Tips & Warnings

• Visit a holistic or homeopathic physician to help you determine the best natural methods of treating your seasonal allergy symptoms.