Each spring and summer, thousands of people are plagued by allergy symptoms. Sneezing, coughing, congestion, and itchy eyes can make for a miserable time. This is especially true for the 8.4% of U.S. children who suffer from hay fever and the 10% who suffer from respiratory allergies, according to the 2014 National Health Interview Survey. But aside from prescription medication and antihistamines, what can you do at home to alleviate allergy symptoms?
One of the easiest, and tastiest, ways you can combat allergy season is by consuming some raw honey each day. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, this ancient remedy can help you build a tolerance to the local pollen that causes your allergy symptoms. The honey contains bee pollen, which can not only alleviate allergy symptoms but can actually help boost immune system strength too. So to build up your immunity to your local pollen, and get a tasty treat in the process, try eating some raw local honey on a regular basis.
Congestion is one of the most frustrating symptoms of allergies because it can be quite difficult to alleviate. But while 87% of homeowners are updating their showers during renovation projects, they’re probably not thinking about the health benefits hot showers can offer. One simple way to help naturally relieve annoying congestion is to steam it out. Hot steam, especially in a shower, can help loosen mucus and overall relieve congestion. By slowly breathing in the hot steam and then blowing your nose, you should be able to easily reduce congestion.
Another simple way to lessen allergy symptoms is to ensure the ductwork in your home is clean. Many people underestimate how important the condition of their home is to their health. But contaminants and air pollutants, like dander and dust, can be pulled into your heating and cooling system and will continuously be re-circulated. With these contaminants being re-circulated throughout your home, you’ll find it much harder to breathe properly in your home. So make sure to schedule professional duct cleaning to ensure the air in your home is safe and clean.
Along with having your ductwork cleaned, you should always change your clothes when you get home after being outside. When you are outside, you can bring pollen into your house on your clothes. So to avoid spreading pollen and other allergens throughout your house, make sure to change your clothes regularly. And furthermore, try your best to keep windows and doors shut to prevent allergens from sneaking into your home.
And lastly, try cooking with a variety of health-boosting herbs and spices. One spice, in particular, you should try is turmeric. Turmeric is a spice that can commonly be found in curry or Indian foods. It contains curcumin, which can help with congestion and other allergy symptoms. Overall, this spice can help boost immunity to colds and allergies.
Suffering from allergy symptoms can make it difficult to enjoy the nice weather that spring and summer bring. But hopefully, these tips will help. By being proactive and smart about what you’re putting in your home and in your body, you can hopefully diminish allergy symptoms to a bearable level this year.