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Spring is a dreaded season for some. And those some are allergy suffers. Some allergies are severe and require the attention of a healthcare provider. For milder cases, though, home remedies may provide all the relief you need with relatively little expense or hassle. Even people with bad allergies that require medication may find these at-home allergy tips helpful for easing symptoms.
Nedi Pots
Neti pots have become a mainstream remedy for allergies and stuffed-up sinuses. The treatment involves rinsing your nasal cavity with a saline solution, flushing out allergens (like pollen), and loosening mucus. You can buy them online or at your local drugstore. This is definitely not my favorite but works for some. If you have a sensitive nose I would suggest not trying this one.
Using a Neti pot is simple. First, fill the pot with a mixture of salt and warm water, which you can buy premeasured kits for or make your own. Then, tilt your head to the side and pour the solution into one nostril until it flows out the other, repeating the process on the opposite side. You’ll want to use boiled, distilled, or filtered water only, as tap water can introduce potentially dangerous organisms into your system, per the FDA. Be sure to research information about which filters to buy if you choose filtered water for your Neti pot.
HEPA Filters
High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters ease symptoms by trapping allergens and other airborne irritants, such as pet dander and dust. Portable air cleaners equipped with HEPA filters can purify the air in bedrooms and other confined spaces by themselves. However, whole-house systems that incorporate HEPA filters into your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, have the potential to give you better air quality. Air conditioners and dehumidifiers also can help clean air. They remove moisture from the air and floor, which will curb mold growth and mildew that can worsen allergies.
Steam and Showering
Anyone who has even been stuffed up knows the impressive ability of a steaming hot shower to soothe sinuses and clear nasal passages, if only temporarily. But showers offer an added benefit for individuals with spring allergies. A quick rinse after spending time outdoors can help remove allergens from your skin and hair and prevent them from spreading to clothes, furniture, pillowcases, and other surfaces where they’re likely to make your allergies flare up.
Other methods of inhaling steam. Like store-bought vaporizers, can flush out mucus and moisten dry nasal passages nearly as well as a shower. The easiest method is to pour boiling water into a bowl or other container, drape a towel over your head to form a tent, and inhale deeply through your nose for five to 10 minutes. Be careful not to get your face too close to the water, as you may scald yourself. If you find yourself really clogged up, this may be more convenient than taking several showers a day.
Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil’s strong, piney aroma can supercharge steam inhalation, helping to open your sinuses and nasal passages further. The oil’s vapor provides a bracing, menthol-like sensation that can make breathing seem easier. Try adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of steaming water or the shower floor before you step in. Don’t swallow the oil or apply it directly to your skin, it’s toxic in concentrated amounts.
Laundy Loads
Washing your bedding once a week in hot water can reduce your exposure to allergens such as dust, pollen, and animal dander. Also, change clothes when you get home in case allergens latched onto your garments.
Vitamins and Supplements
A healthy diet supports a strong immune system response. But it’s possible that your immune system may need an extra boost and that’s where dietary supplements might help. Certain vitamins and herbs also can help limit inflammation that comes with allergic responses. Such as Vitamin D, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Omega-3 fatty acids.
The above recommendations as more of a potential starting point for dealing with allergies, not the be-all and end-all for treatment. They’re also not a substitute for medical care during a severe reaction. But if you’re looking for an alternative to day-to-day allergy maintenance, it’s important to know there might be simple solutions aside from medications.
Good luck to all my fellow allergy sufferers out there!
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