Spring is time of renewal and regrowth, but for those with allergies it can be awful. Allergens come from many sources such as pollen, spores, pet dander, ragweed, flowers and dust. Everyone reacts to allergens in different ways, most common are congestion, coughing, watery eyes, and headache. While there are plenty of over the counter remedies available at your local pharmacist there are also a plethora of organic options that will sooth your sinuses just as well. As with most health remedies, these solutions fall into one of two categories, prevention or treatment. I am a firm believer that its always better to try and prevent allergies before they start than just treat the symptoms, but spring always has a way of sneaking up on you.

My favorite (and tastiest) way to rid yourself of springtime allergies is honey. By taking small amounts of locally harvested, non-pasteurized honey every day will build up a tolerance to the pollens the bees collect. It is essential that the honey you get is local because allergens vary widely from region to region. You should start with a small amount, and build up to taking a teaspoon a day throughout the allergy season. Honey is a long term solution and so will not immediately relief symptoms, it is more of a preventative measure so the symptoms never appear in the first place. Not everyone is able to use this method, some people develop gastrointestinal problems. Check with your doctor if you have any concerns.

Recent research has shown that drinking a cup of Green Tea each day has the potential to prevent allergies by blocking receptors that trigger the allergic reactions. Tea should be consumed everyday and in a pure form, so without the additions of honey, milk or sugar. Green tea is far superior for allergy prevention than its oolong or black tea counterparts because green tea is the least processed before consumption, making it the purest tea available.

Vitamins and Herbal supplements can also be extremely effective in warding off allergic reactions. Try a daily dose of Vitamin C, Ginko Biloba and Echinacea. These supplements can strengthen your body's defences and detoxify the substances entering your body.

To sooth away the symptoms of allergies naturally try Apple Cider Vinegar. It is rich in vitamin and minerals and can help sooth a sore throat and reduce mucus inside the throat. Try spicy foods containing wasabi or hot peppers to clear your sinuses, they can be taken alone or in food. Garlic and onion rich rood can reduce inflammation in sinus cavities and are a natural antihistamine. Licorice root can help sooth a sore throat by reducing inflammation. Ginger root, available in pill form or naturally has long been used for holistic healing. In addition to being a natural pain reducer, it also stimulates your immune system. For immediate relief try using a neti pot, these little salt water filled pots flush your sinuses instantly. It's recommended you use them twice a day, especially after being exposed to allergens. They can also help with abating snoring if used before bed.

It is always wise to talk with your doctor before beginning any regimen. Even natural solutions can interact with your current health conditions or medication.

Learn more about this author, Beth Cummings.
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