8 drug-free tips to fight spring allergies

By Cara Murez HealthDay Reporter

SATURDAY, April 8, 2023 (HealthDay News) — Springtime allergies can be brutal, and many, but not all, people seek synthetic medications to combat their symptoms.

“These allergies cause unpleasant symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes and nasal congestion,” says Dr. Jo Reedan allergy, asthma and immunology expert from Ochsner Health in Louisiana.

“Of course, you can take various synthetic allergy medications, but many people prefer to use natural remedies,” Reed said in an Ochsner press release.

Here, Reed offers a few options:

A herb known as butterbur is an option, according to several scientific studies. In one, Swiss researchers found that butterbur is a powerful antihistamine that can control hay fever.

“It also doesn’t cause drowsiness like some over-the-counter allergy medications do,” Reed said.

Green tea contains a substance that can block certain allergic reactions in the body, according to studies by Japanese scientists. It can reduce sneezing and itchy eyes.

spicy food, including cayenne pepper, might help. It contains capsaicin, which is known to reduce nasal congestion. Additionally, allicin, found in garlic, is an anti-inflammatory that can reduce swelling and inflammation.

A notyou can, with its long, slender beak, can help clear clogged sinuses. Fill the jar with warm, sterile water and salt before tilting your head back and letting the solution enter your nasal passages through one nostril. Continue until the solution flows from the other nostril.

Seasonal allergies can cause dryness in the nose and sinuses, leading to congestion and swelling.

“A great way to combat dryness is to use a humidifierRed said. “This device releases water vapor into the air and helps hydrate your dry nasal and sinus passages, reducing congestion and discomfort.”

eucalyptus oil, eucalyptus leaves, has been found in studies to reduce allergies caused by inflammation. Add a few drops to a bowl of boiling water and breathe in the vapours.

Your vacuum cleaner should have a high efficiency particulate air filter, so you can rid your home of pollen with regular cleaning. These filters effectively minimize the amount of symptom-causing pollen inside your home.

You can also wear protective clothing to reduce your exposure to pollen when you’re outdoors, Reed advised. Put on sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat and long pants to prevent pollen from getting on your skin. Don’t forget to take off your clothes at the end of the day and take a shower to wash out any pollen.

SOURCE: Ochsner Health, press release, April 4, 2023

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