As the seasons start changing, many people become susceptible to allergy symptoms such as itchy or watery eyes, stuffy sinuses and sneezing. Instead of reaching for the pharmaceutical products (which often do more harm than good), why not consider these natural remedies instead?

Drinking more water will assist with thinning out mucous and hydrating the mucous membranes, helping to reduce nasal irritation. Changing clothing and taking a bath or shower immediately upon entering the house will help to reduce the amount of pollen and spores in the house. Using a vacuum cleaner which features a HEPA filter also helps to keep allergens under control.

The European herb Butterbur (Petasites hybridus) has shown very impressive clinical results in the treatment of hay fever and allergies. A group of Swiss researchers demonstrated that taking one tablet of Butterbur four times a day was just as effective as a popular antihistamine drug, but it did not cause any drowsiness, unlike the antihistamine medication.

Blowing the nose regularly helps to expel allergens, which may be trapped in the nasal and mucous membranes. Not trimming nose hairs too short will also help to alleviate symptoms, as these hairs act as a natural filter, helping to trap much of the allergens in the air we breathe.

Using probiotics can help boost the immune system and alleviate allergy symptoms. Brands containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis are most beneficial to allergy sufferers. Adding raw, unpasteurized honey and local bee pollen to your diet will help your system build natural antibodies to the pollens and allergens that you are most frequently exposed to. This regimen should be started around six weeks before the allergy season starts to give your body enough time to build immunity to the allergens.

There is a natural antihistamine called Quercetin, which is found in onion and apple skins. This can be taken in 300mg doses three times a day during peak allergy season to alleviate symptoms. Stinging nettle leaves can be used to make a tea, which is beneficial to allergy sufferers. Boiling water needs to be poured on the leaves and it should be allowed to steep for approximately 15 minutes before consumption to ensure maximum benefit.

Two homeopathic treatments, namely Allium cepa and Euphrasia, are sometimes used to treat allergy symptoms. The Allium cepa is used to treat the itchy and watery eyes while the Euphrasia is used to treat the stuffy nose.

Minimizing your consumption of mucous-forming foods will also help alleviate allergy symptoms. These include fried and processed foods, wheat, meat, chocolate, eggs and dairy products. However, increasing your intake of anti-inflammatory foods such as hemp seeds, walnuts, flax seeds and those containing fish oil will help to reduce inflammation and mucous build-up.

It is important to note that any of these treatments should be started at least two to three weeks (preferably six weeks) before the allergy season begins.

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