As the weather warms up and daffodils are starting to peak through the soil, it is time for many to get outside, enjoy the sun and get ready for the summer. For others, it is a time to get outside and enjoy the weather before the dreaded "A" word hits. That's right, I am talking about allergies. Headaches, stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, rash, acid reflux, indigestion, tiredness and fatigue are all common allergy symptoms and we would all like to avoid them.

Many allergy sufferers do not like the physical side effects associated with the regular use of antihistamines and decongestants. These drugs tend to make the user feel sleepy and groggy and also tend to dry out the body, causing dehydration. Luckily, there are plenty of natural remedies to help sooth or even prevent many allergy symptoms and reactions. Try some of the following remedies to hopefully lead to a sneeze and sniffle-free spring and summer:

Eucalyptus - As a natural allergy cure, eucalyptus effectively calms coughs and relieves nasal congestion and is often found in cough and cold remedies, chest rubs, and various oils and liniments to relieve pain. It is both an antiseptic and a stimulant with expectorant and antibiotic properties. In lozenge form, eucalyptus increases the production of saliva to reduce the urge to cough. Given these properties, eucalyptus is considered to be one of the best natural allergy remedies.

Honey - Raw, local honey may help your body build a resistance to allergy-inducing pollens, reducing your allergic reaction. Start eating small amounts of honey before allergy season, gradually increasing to 1 teaspoon a day and continuing throughout the season.

Stinging Nettle - Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) behaves in much the same way as many of the drugs sold to treat allergies, but without the unwanted side effects of dry mouth and drowsiness. Nettle actually inhibits the body's ability to produce histamine. The most practical medicinal form is a freeze-dried extract of the leaves sold in capsules. Studies have shown that taking about 300 milligrams daily will offer relief for most people.

Quercetin - A natural plant-derived compound called a bioflavonoid, quercetin helps suppress histamine production in your body. Though many foods are high in quercetin, allergy sufferers will most likely need to use supplements to build up enough of this compound to prevent attacks. The recommended dosage is about 1,000 milligrams a day, taken between meals. It's best to start treatment six weeks before allergy season.

As with dust and pollen allergies, different people have different reactions to certain herbs, foods and supplements. Always start with a small dose of any allergy remedy, whether natural or pharmaceutical, and observe your body's response before increasing the quantity or frequency. If you notice an adverse reaction, decrease or discontinue use.

Learn more about this author, Carolyn Lee.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Natural health options for allergy relief?
We want to hear your view. Write now!