Itchy Eyes? Runny Nose? 9 Natural Ways to Curb Allergies

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(WellnessPursuits.com) – Are you sick of going outdoors and coming in with itchy eyes or a runny nose? What about coughing or sneezing? Seasonal allergies can leave you feeling absolutely miserable. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help alleviate the problem. Check out this list of 9 natural ways to curb allergies.

  1. Find out what your triggers are. The first step to reducing your seasonal allergies is avoidance — and that means knowing what your allergy triggers are in the first place. An allergist can do a skin test to help you discover exactly what it is you need to stay away from.
  2. Keep your door and windows closed. It may be beautiful outside, but days when the pollen counts are high can leave you suffering. Opt to use an air conditioner with an HEPA filter instead.
  3. Wear a mask when you’re outdoors. If you spend time outside and are at risk of being exposed to potential allergens, for instance when doing yard work, consider wearing a mask.
  4. Rinse out your nose. Saline nasal rinses can help thin out and get rid of your mucus. For a natural option, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommends mixing 3 teaspoons of iodide-free salt with 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Add 1 teaspoon of the mixture to 8 ounces of lukewarm boiled or distilled water.
  5. Increase your fluid intake. Drinking more water and other non-alcoholic beverages can also help thin out the mucus in your nasal passages. Warm fluids like tea and broth are ideal because steam inhalation can further aid in thinning out mucus.
  6. Take a hot shower. This is another way to breathe in steam to help thin out your nasal mucus and breathe better. Another option is to hold your head over a bowl or sink full of hot, steaming water. Put a towel over your head to trap the steam in for a bit.
  7. Maintain a clean home. Regularly vacuuming, mopping or cleaning your floors can help remove potential allergens from your home. Be sure to clean furniture and bedding, too. Leave shoes in the entryway so they don’t drag in more allergens.
  8. Consider trying butterbur. Research has found that this plant extract may have antihistamine-like effects for managing allergy symptoms. It’s also been found to be effective for treating hay fever and migraines.
  9. Try taking vitamin C. Studies have shown that taking 2 grams of vitamin C per day can offer antihistamine benefits for allergy sufferers. This is thanks to vitamin C’s immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

These are just a few natural ways to curb allergies. However, there may be times when natural remedies just aren’t enough. You might need to consider over-the-counter medications like antihistamines and decongestants or talk to your doctor about prescription options to help manage your allergies.

~Here’s to Your Healthy Pursuits!

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