Ragweed, dust, and mold spores are all airborne during the fall, causing hay fever (allergic rhinitis) symptoms, including runny noses, stuffy heads, wheezing, sneezing, and coughing. Many people reach for over-the-counter allergy relief medicines to alleviate these symptoms, but there are natural hay fever remedies that are more beneficial for your health. Let’s dive into some of these remedies and see how they can help control or even alleviate your hay fever symptoms altogether.
Swap Pharmaceuticals for Honey
A natural way to build immunity against allergens is by consuming local honey, made from the very plants that cause hay fever. However, remember that building immunity through honey is a long-term process. For immediate relief, create a healing concoction by combining 1-2 tablespoons of honey with ginger tea and 1-2 tablespoons of coconut milk. This mixture helps loosen phlegm and strengthens your immune system. To make the ginger tea, simply boil a half thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger root in 2 cups of water.
Chamomile Tea
Next time you reach for a cup of tea, try chamomile. Known for its antibacterial effects, chamomile tea helps prevent or treat sinus infections frequently associated with hay fever. Simply brew the tea according to package instructions and enjoy a cup or two daily during allergy season.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is often hailed as a natural miracle remedy and can work wonders in knocking out sinus infections. It also helps to alleviate allergy symptoms when consumed two or three times a day. Mix 1-3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a small glass of water, and if you like, add honey to sweeten the mixture. Alternatively, you can use apple cider vinegar to make a saline rinse by mixing one cup of warm water with a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Gently flush your nasal passages using a neti pot.
Ginger Tea
As a natural antihistamine, ginger can help break up congestion and alleviate a sore throat. Make a ginger tea by boiling a half thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger root in 2 cups of water. You can also add honey to the tea for additional benefits.
Turmeric
Another natural remedy for hay fever is turmeric, a spice that gives curry its yellow color. It contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and various other health benefits. A 2008 study published in the Journal of Molecular Nutrition and Food Research demonstrated that turmeric prevented mast cells from releasing histamine.
Incorporate turmeric into your meals and consider taking it as a supplement to experience year-round benefits. Remember that turmeric is best absorbed when combined with black pepper, healthy fats, or quercetin, which can be found in onions, apples, and green tea.
A Holistic Approach
Adopting a holistic lifestyle can also help alleviate allergy symptoms. Find ways to manage stress, engage in regular exercise, and maintain a healthy diet that reduces inflammation and strengthens your immune system. This will aid your body in fighting off allergens naturally.
Other Natural Options
In addition to the remedies mentioned above, you can consider other natural alternatives, such as acupuncture, saline nasal sprays, butterbur supplements, and stinging nettle. Be sure to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regime.
By choosing these natural remedies over pharmaceuticals, you’re prioritizing your health and well-being. Your body, particularly your immune system, will thank you for choosing these natural hay fever remedies that not only control your allergy symptoms but also boost your overall health.
