Got Allergies?
Here’s How You Can Reduce Seasonal Allergies Naturally
Written by Dr. Anjali Kasunich
“Is it just me, or are everyone’s allergies getting worse each year?” I’ve gotten this question from many patients over the past several years. You’re not imagining things. Allergy season is hitting people harder with each passing year. Scientists believe this is due to the fact that as global temperatures rise, more pollen is released and stays longer in our atmosphere, leading to more sneezing, itchy & watery eyes, and congestion (1).
So what can we do to prevent or relieve these bothersome seasonal allergy symptoms? Most doctors recommend over-the-counter antihistamines. However, more people are opting for natural options that support the whole body & have fewer side effects.
Check out the list below to learn about my 10 favorite natural remedies for seasonal allergies!
10 Natural Remedies For Seasonal Allergies
1. Vitamin C to calm allergy symptoms
This important vitamin, found abundantly in kiwis & citrus fruits, has been shown to help reduce seasonal allergy symptoms (2). Many practitioners prefer lypospheric or liposomal forms of vitamin C, especially during allergy season, because it’s more easily absorbed in the body.
2. Quercetin to lower histamine
This antioxidant is found in foods such as onions, apples & berries. It can help reduce histamine levels, decrease markers of inflammation and improve seasonal allergy symptoms (3).
3. Stinging Nettle to combat inflammation
This prickly plant is rich in minerals and AMAZING at helping to calm allergy symptoms. Researchers have found that nettles help to reduce inflammation related to seasonal allergies (4). It’s been found to be especially helpful when taken at the first sign of symptoms.
4. N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) for sinus support
This amino acid converts to Glutathione - our body’s master antioxidant. It may also help to thin mucus, as well as improve sinus congestion related to seasonal allergies (5).
5. Probiotics for immune balance
These healthy bacteria that live in and on our bodies promote healthy digestion & immune function. Studies have found that taking probiotics may improve congestion and other symptoms related to seasonal allergies (6).
6. Local honey for allergy season
Honey has well-studied antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (7). Many people have reported that eating raw, local honey before and during allergy season helped to reduce their allergy symptoms (8).
*Honey should not be given to children who are under 12 months of age.
7. Reishi mushroom to reduce inflammation and histamine
This mushroom can help to reduce inflammation and histamine release related to allergies (9). When combined with Cordyceps, it can be especially helpful to support healthy lung function during allergy season.
8. Astragalus for sneezing
The root of this plant, used commonly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), may reduce sneezing and runny nose related to seasonal allergies (10). Herbalists often advise taking astragalus before allergy season to reduce or prevent symptoms.
9. Turmeric to reduce histamine release
This plant, commonly used in Indian cuisine, has gained popularity for its ability to help lower markers of inflammation. More research has also shown that it can help reduce histamine release related to seasonal allergies (11).
10. Neti pot to clean out sinuses
This form of nasal irrigation has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. It typically uses sterilized water and saline to flush out any dirt or allergens from the sinuses. Studies have found that using a Neti pot during allergy season can help to reduce sinus symptoms related to allergies (12).
*It’s important to use sterile water, not tap water, in the Neti pot to avoid introducing any germs into the sinuses.
Want to work with me and get a personalized plan to combat your allergy symptoms? Schedule a free get-to-know-you call with me HERE to see how I can help!
About The Author
Dr. Anjali Kasunich is a California-licensed Naturopathic Doctor and founder of Mantra Natural Medicine where she uses a heart-centered approach and evidence-based natural treatments to help her patients heal. When she’s not treating patients in her private practice, Dr. Anjali enjoys spending time with her husband and dog, dancing, and being in her garden. You can learn more about Dr. Anjali and her favorite healthy tips by visiting her Instagram or TikTok.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Please consult with your doctor, or licensed healthcare provider, before trying any new supplements as they may interfere with your current medications or be contraindicated for you.
References / Resources:
Ziska L, et al. Temperature-related changes in airborne allergenic pollen abundance and seasonality across the norther hemisphere: a retrospective data analysis. Vol 3, Issue 3; March 2019 (e124-e131). DOI: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196(19)30015-4/fulltext
Vollbracht C, et al. Intravenous vitamin C in the treatment of allergies: an interim subgroup analysis of a long-term observational study. Sep 2018; 46(9): 3640-3655. DOI: 10.1177/0300060518777044
Mlcek J, et al. Quercetin and its Anti-Allergic Immune Response. May 2016; 21(5): 623. DOI: 10.3390/molecules21050623
Roschek B, et al. Nettle extract (Urtica dioica) affects key receptors and enzymes associated with allergic rhinitis. July 2009; 23(7): 920-6. DOI: 10.1002/ptr.2763
Martinez-Losa M, et al. Inhibitory effects of N-acetylcysteine on the functional responses of human eosinophils in vitro. May 2007; 37(5): 714-22. DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2007.02694.x.
Yang G, et al. Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis with Probiotics: An Alternative Approach. August 2013; 5(8): 465-468. DOI: 10.4103/1947-2714.117299
Samarghandian S, et al. Honey and Health: A Review of Recent Clinical Research. Apr-Jun 2017; 9(2): 121-127. DOI: 10.4103/0974-8490.204647
Asha’ari Z, et al. Ingestion of honey improves the symptoms of allergic rhinitis: evidence from a randomized placebo-controlled trial in the East coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Sep-Oct 2013; 33(5): 469-75. DOI: 10.5144/0256-4947.2013.469
Bhardwaj N, et al. Suppression of inflammatory and allergic responses by pharmacologically potent fungus Ganoderma lucidum. 2014; 8(2): 104-17. DOI: 10.2174/1872213x08666140619110657
Matkovic Z, et al. Efficacy and safety of Astragalus membranaceus in the treatment of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Feb 2010; 24(2): 175-81. DOI: 10.1002/ptr.2877
Kurup Viswanath P and Christy S Barrios. Immunomodulatory effects of curcumin in allergy. Sep 2008; 52(9): 1031-9. DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.200700293
Saline Nasal Irrigation for Upper Respiratory Conditions. Nov 2009; 80(10): 1117-1119. DOI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2778074/