10 Ways to Alleviate Spring Allergies Naturally

Spring is a wonderful time of year, but for allergy sufferers, it can be a nightmare. Pollen, dust, and other allergens are in the air, causing sneezing, itching, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Fortunately, there are several natural ways to alleviate spring allergies without resorting to medication. In this article, we will discuss ten natural ways to alleviate spring allergies.

Keep your windows closed

One way to alleviate spring allergies is to keep your windows closed. This will help prevent pollen from entering your home and causing allergic reactions. A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that closing windows and doors reduced indoor exposure to pollen and improved allergy symptoms in people with seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) (1). Instead, use an air conditioner to cool your home, and be sure to change the filter regularly to keep it free of allergens.

Use a HEPA air purifier

Another way to reduce indoor exposure to pollen and other allergens is to use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. A HEPA air purifier can trap pollen and other allergens from the air inside your home, reducing the amount of allergens you breathe in. A study published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology found that using an air purifier in the bedroom reduced allergen levels and improved allergy symptoms in people with SAR (2). Be sure to choose a purifier that is the right size for your room and change the filter regularly.

Rinse your sinuses

Using a saline solution to rinse your sinuses can help flush out allergens from your nasal passages and relieve allergy symptoms. A study published in the American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy found that nasal saline irrigation was effective in improving symptoms of allergic rhinitis (3). You can use a neti pot or a nasal spray to rinse your sinuses, but be sure to use sterile water or distilled water to avoid infection.

Use natural antihistamines

Certain herbs and supplements such as quercetin, stinging nettle, and butterbur can help reduce allergy symptoms. Quercetin is a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables that has anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry found that quercetin reduced the release of histamine, a chemical that causes allergy symptoms (4). Stinging nettle is a plant that has been used for centuries to treat allergy symptoms. A study published in the Journal of the American Herbalists Guild found that stinging nettle was effective in reducing allergy symptoms in people with SAR (5). Butterbur is a plant that has been shown to have antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology found that butterbur was effective in reducing symptoms of SAR (6). However, it’s important to note that butterbur can cause liver damage in some people, so it’s best to talk to your doctor before using it.