Natural Allergy Remedies
With spring finally upon us, it’s finally time to get outside and enjoy some warm sunshine. Walks on the freshly raked trails, planting those delicious tomato plants and bike rides around the lake will soon be regular activities. But along with the gorgeous weather come the familiar itchy eyes and runny noses of seasonal allergies. These symptoms affect millions of Americans every year and vary in severity. Most allergies are caused by the large amount of pollen spreading throughout the air. While there is no true cure for season allergies, most people manage their symptoms through pharmaceutical treatments.
For those who like to avoid the drowsiness and fatigue that tends to come with pharmaceutical treatments, there are many natural allergy remedies that will help reduce symptoms without any residual effects.
For example, if itching and sneezing keeps you and those around you going crazy, trying smelling eucalyptus oil. This plant has a naturally anti-inflammatory effect that can help reduce those obnoxious symptoms. Additionally, the woodsy smell can help open stuffed nasal passageways. Remember to never place essential oil directly on the skin – instead use an aromatherapy diffuser or place a few drops in a bath.
Eating certain foods can also aid in reducing congestion in the chest and sinuses. Spicy foods can clear your sinuses out fast – try adding some ginger, cayenne pepper or horseradish.
If spicy isn’t quite your thing, try a delicious and healthy pineapple smoothie. Pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce swelling in the nasal passages. Pineapple also can improve immune system function, meaning those allergies may be beaten down sooner than you thought.
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