Home Treatment For Seasonal Allergies (8 Healthy Categories)

With the option of home treatment for seasonal allergies, you might be able to diagnose and reduce your anxiety when faced with allergy symptoms. Check this article out to know the different allergies and home remedies.

What are Seasonal Allergies?

Seasonal allergies occur season-wise when an outdoor allergen causes our immune system to overreact. This creates an allergic response. Common allergens include pollen from trees and weeds.

Another name for this kind of allergy is Hay fever, which historically occurs due to more allergies occurring during the summer or hay-cutting season. Winter allergies are less heard.

However, allergies depend on one’s allergy triggers and environment, as allergens are present outdoors and indoors.

Common Seasonal Allergy Symptoms

The most common symptoms, ranging from mild to severe allergic reactions, are Sneezing, Watery and Itchy eyes, Stuffy or runny nose, Itchy sinuses, ear canals or throat, Ear congestion1, and Postnasal drainage2.

Headache, wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath may also occur, but these are less common. Those with hay fever can also have an asthma attack triggered by allergens.

Causes of Seasonal Allergies 

Allergy symptoms can differ according to the season and one’s trigger reactions:

1) During spring (common allergy season), Birch Tree causes pollen allergies to increase in northern latitudes. Other kinds of trees to look out for are cedar, horse chestnut, willow, aider, and poplar in North America.

2) During Fall, Ragweed, grown in South and North America, causes a common pollen allergy, which can also be severe. Other plants to look out for are nettles, sorrels, fat hens, mugworts, and plantains.

3) During winter, indoor allergens like mould, dust mites, and pet dander are more common. These can be removed easily, compared to outdoor sources.

Different kinds of food and medications can also cause allergies.

How to Diagnose Seasonal Allergies? 

Testing for allergies usually involves getting a doctor’s check-up of your ear, nose, and throat.

If you have allergy symptoms occurring at a particular time of the year, it could be allergic rhinitis.

In any case, there are natural remedies available to be tried out, the different types of which this article will focus on.

Home Treatment For Seasonal Allergies

Of course, once you have identified the allergy source, the best precaution is to avoid it. Steps that can be taken to ensure the same are:

1) Use AC with a HEPA filter to cool down during summer, to avoid ceiling fans.

2) When pollen counts are high, try to stay indoors. You can also close your windows or wear masks to prevent the same.

In case of unavoidable circumstances, or when you don’t opt for allergy medications and shots, here are specific natural remedies for seasonal allergies that you can try out.

1. Hydration

water
By Wavebreakmedia/unlimphotos.com Copyright 2022.

One of the most straightforward home treatments for seasonal allergies is to consume more water – dehydration causes histamine production to increase, aggravating seasonal allergies.

Another effect is a better skin condition, and dehydration can lead to the skin becoming rough and dry. Thus, symptoms like itching, scaling, and cracking in hands, face, and feet become more prominent.

Here are some tips you can use to rehydrate your body:

1) You can replace other fluids with water, increasing hydrating benefits, especially during mornings.

2) Keep consuming water the whole day, even if it breaks, especially in early mornings and between meals, which also helps indigestion.

3) Regulate drinking water, as your body needs half of your weight consumed through water. You can increase it more once you start exercising and during hot climates.

4) However, make sure to track your water consumption, then you can figure out the amount needed to rehydrate your body.

Try out this naturally effective and least expensive way of treating allergies.3

2. Natural Remedies For Allergic Rhinitis

Any kind of allergy in the nose – from dust to pollen, falls under the category of rhinitis. Here are the natural treatments available for the same:

Saline Nasal Irrigation

Using a saline solution like saltwater to rinse out your nasal cavity can be effective, for both children and adults, especially in the case of allergic rhinitis.

The Saline Nasal irrigation method ensures you can get rid of blockages in nasal passages or nasal congestion of any kind like a runny/stuffy nose. For further information on the effectiveness of this home treatment for seasonal allergies, click here.

A Neti pot with purified and warm water, with any essential oil, can also clear out your sinuses. Alternative medicine would be saline nasal sprays – twice a day is advisable to prevent environmental allergens.

Probiotics

Good bacteria in the form of probiotics can improve and reduce the extent of rhinitis allergies.

Some examples include paracasei – 33 and B.longum. However, the effectiveness of this treatment is yet to be proven by research.

To know the other benefits of consuming probiotics, click here.

Acupuncture

acupuncture
By Wavebreakmedia/unlimphotos.com Copyright 2022.

Using acupuncture, a complementary and alternative medicine method, you can treat varied mental and physical conditions in which allergic rhinitis fits.

The different kinds of acupuncture4 – ranging from sham to Moxibustion, can relieve nasal congestion effectively, with minimum side effects. Click here to learn more about the research on this home treatment for seasonal allergies. 

Spirulina

Blue-green algae that grow in fresh and saltwater is among the most nutrient-dense foods and effective home treatments for seasonal allergies like rhinitis.

It acts by blocking histamines, which reduce nasal allergies like congestion, inflammation, discharge, and itching. To know more about its benefits, click here.

3. Natural Antihistamines For Allergies

Histamine5, part of your immune system, causes all allergy symptoms from sneezing to cold. Antihistamines have the opposite effect it, and these can be had in the form of allergy medications or as natural plant and food extracts like:

Stinging Nettle

Herbal medicine and a natural antihistamine – Stinging nettle contains nutrients and reduces inflammation, treating hay fever.

These can both stop and block allergy symptoms, but more studies are needed to prove their effectiveness. You can check out its research as a home treatment for seasonal allergies here.

Butterbur (To Clear Nasal Passages)

butterbur
By rbiedermann/unlimphotos.com Copyright 2022.

A marsh plant – Butterbur, is used for medicinal purposes like treating migraines. As proved by research, it is an effective remedy for nasal allergies as an oral antihistamine.

However, like a daisy plant, it can cause other allergic reactions and side effects like headaches, itchy eyes, digestive problems, sleepiness, and so forth. So, this is advised to be taken as a home treatment for seasonal allergies under the doctor’s supervision.

Quercetin

An antioxidant, found in products like onions and apples, herbs, and tea – Quercetin, has the following effects on allergies: better immunity and reduced inflammation, as an antihistamine.

This can be an effective remedy for – bronchial asthma, rhinitis, and peanut allergy sufferers. Click here to learn more about its research as a home treatment for seasonal allergies. 

Bromelain (To Reduce Allergy Symptoms)

A protein-digesting enzyme found in fruits like pineapple and papaya, Bromelain is an effective remedy to reduce inflammation and swelling in nasal passages.

They also act as natural allergy remedies for improving breathing, a digestive aid, and healing sore muscles.

However, Bromelain can also cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and menstrual bleeding. To know more, about its uses and precautions, as a home treatment for seasonal allergies, click here.

4. Natural Essential Oils

Peppermint Essential Oil And Tea

Peppermint oil, either by itself or used with carrier oils like lavender and lemon, is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. You could check out the link to see its effectiveness against asthma and rhinitis.

Peppermint tea is another home treatment for seasonal allergies caused due to pollen and dust. It secretes anti-inflammatory enzymes that fight allergens.

How to use it? 

To make the tea, add 1 tsp of peppermint leaves to a glass of water and boil it. Let the mixture steep for almost 10 minutes. Once done, strain and drink it when the tea is warm.

Eucalyptus Oil

Known for its medicinal purposes, Eucalyptus oil is used for cough relief, clearing the chest, soothing cold sores, and disinfecting wounds.

It can also be inhaled as steam for better respiratory conditions during asthma and sinusitis. However, it should not be an option if someone is allergic to Eucalyptus.

How to use it? 

One way of using it is to add a few water drops, boil them, and then inhale the steam, which would clear off your nasal passage.

Frankincense Oil

Made from the resin of the Boswellia tree, frankincense oil is a traditional Ayurvedic medicine that can be used to reduce arthritis, better gut function, improve asthma, and even have anti-cancerous properties.

Check out this Medical News Today article, which cites more oils to be used in home treatment for seasonal allergies.

5. Air Filters (For Indoor Allergens)

hepa air filter
By Daniel Foster/Flickr. Copyright 2022.

It is advisable to use cleaner air filters in your AC, which can block out pollen, pet dander, and dust of any kind, to reduce the risk of allergens at home. These can also be used in a vacuum cleaner.

But, make sure any kind of high-efficiency filter is regularly checked. HEPA filters are a good option.

6. Air Conditioning And Dehumidifier (For Indoor Allergies)

dehumidifer
By mady70/unlimphotos.com Copyright 2022.

Dehumidifiers and air conditioners can be used to keep your indoor air dry. This can limit allergies caused by the growth of mould, dust mites, and mildew, which thrive in moist and humid areas.

Some of the symptoms that can be avoided through this are itchy eyes and skin, sneezing or wheezing, and a stuffy nose.

7. Foods That Fight Allergy

Having a well-balanced diet can be one of the lifestyle habits you can adopt to have a better immune system, which can naturally fight allergy-producing symptoms like sneezing and sniffling.

Here are some food choices for the same:

Honey (For Pollen Allergies)

Natural honey is a home treatment for seasonal allergies due to pollen with the same effect as allergy shots. Although not measured, one can ease allergy symptoms caused by pollen by consuming it.

However, increasing immunity needs to be done with caution in some instances, like children below one year and those suffering from severe pollen allergies. Click here to know why.

Green Leafy Vegetables

Filled with vitamins C, E, A, and K – leafy greens like broccoli, spinach, and spring onions, fight inflammation that eases symptoms of respiratory allergies.

They also contain Quercetin, a bioflavonoid compound, which produces less histamine, thus preventing allergic symptoms, as an effective home treatment for seasonal allergies. 

With antioxidant properties, these can be consumed either raw or cooked. Making a veggie soup would be effective and match your taste buds.

Citrus Fruits

Other histamine-reducing foods are Vitamin C-rich citrus fruits like oranges, lemon juice, and lime. These are rich in antioxidants and minerals as well.

Besides preventing dehydration, they boost immunity to fight viruses and bacteria as a home treatment for seasonal allergies. It is advisable to eat them, rather than drink juices, as it would be more effective.

However, some people have a ‘citrus allergy‘; check this link out to use this option carefully.

Red Onion Water

red onion water
By towfiq007/unlimphotos.com Copyright 2022.

Containing Quercetin, a compound that helps control histamine, Red onions can be used as a home treatment for seasonal allergies.

It is a natural antihistamine that helps with bronchodilators as well. Here is the research done to determine its therapeutic effect against rhinitis.

However, if you are allergic to onions, check out this article for the symptoms and cure.

Hot and Spicy Food

Who said you couldn’t have a flavorful meal and fight your allergies?

With spicy foods like garlic, ginger, and chilli peppers, your body cures allergies effectively with their anti-inflammatory properties.

These spicy foods also help produce thin mucus, clearing out your nasal and throat passages as a home treatment for seasonal allergies. 

Pineapple

A tropical fruit choice – pineapple is packed with enough nutrients and antioxidants that make it part of the home treatment for seasonal allergies. 

It contains bromelain – digestive enzymes, easing the digestion process, which also helps with sinus infections and pancreatic-related diseases. Not only does it boost immunity and reduce inflammation, but it also relieves symptoms of arthritis and may reduce the risk of cancer.

It is also beneficial for those recovering from surgery or heavy exercise, and the best part is it doesn’t lack taste.

But, be careful if the symptoms seem to aggravate or produce new ones once you consume; this might be a sign of pineapple allergy. Click here to view the details.

Berries

Strawberries

A delicious fruit of spring and summer – strawberry, contains fisetin, an anti-allergy nutrient, with two benefits: maintaining cell function and reducing inflammation. This helps with conditions like asthma and brain-related procedures.

However, one needs to be cautious when using it as a home treatment for seasonal allergies. Symptoms like swelling, dizziness, and lower blood pressure can be signs of severe berry allergy. Click here to know the details.

Raspberries And Blueberries

Naturally grown berries are better than conventional ones at reducing the histamine response, especially in children, due to the ample amount of flavonoids and Vitamins they contain.

Filled with vitamins K and C, eating raspberries can keep joints and skin healthy and prevent blood clotting. The flavonoids present help reduce inflammation which can cause better heart health.

Another flavonoid present in blueberries, Quercetin, is known for its anti-allergic response and better immunity. Here is the link to check out its effectiveness as a home treatment for seasonal allergies. 

Salmon

Seafood contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which can boost the immune system naturally. It acts as a home treatment for seasonal allergies causing dry skin and eczema.

The more Salmon or any other type of seafood one consumes, the better are conditions of those having dermatitis, arthritis, colitis, and bronchitis. 

Here is the link to an exciting study that proves pregnant mothers consuming fish could protect their children from allergies.

Nuts

Despite the abundant amount of nut allergies, they can also cure allergies, which is proven.

Greek island residents could reduce asthma and prevent allergy conditions by following a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, and nuts. Check out the study results here.

The Magnesium and Vitamin E, present in nuts, helps prevent wheezing, boost the immune system, and protect the body from inflammation – all proving it a home treatment for seasonal allergies. 

Yoghurt

Known for improving bone health conditions, diarrhoea, and muscle growth, and a lactose-free option, yoghurt can prevent allergies.

The probiotic – lactobacillus casei, found in it, reduces the antibodies in the immune system, which prevents the overreaction to allergens, making it an effective home treatment for seasonal allergies. 

Pickles

Fat-free and low-calorie pickles can be consumed for several health benefits, from stabilizing mental state to treating cavities, diabetes, urinary tract infections, and even lowering cancer risk.

As a home treatment for seasonal allergies, pickles contain:

1) Antioxidants that prevent inflammation, which helps in better heart health.

2) They help rehydrate the body with a high sodium content that restores the electrolyte balance, preventing fever and vomiting.

But, if you have symptoms like wheezing, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal problems, it is a sign of pickle allergy, which you need to treat through other means; click here.

Cheeses

Yes, cheese can be part of the home treatment for seasonal allergies due to probiotics, especially in the gouda kind, minerals, and vitamins that help protect the gastrointestinal tract.

Research also shows a rich cheese diet can prevent allergy conditions at a young age like dermatitis, rhinitis, and asthma. Check the details here.

However, not all cheeses fall under this category, considering the milk factor in it – symptoms may vary from mild wheezing and hives to life-threatening reactions like anaphylaxis.

Kefir

Kefir
By Digifoodstock/unlimphotos.com Copyright 2022.

Filled with probiotics and nutrients, milk ingredients – kafir, aids in digestion and good gut health, even better than yoghurt.

It contains nutrients, has antibacterial properties, helps digestion problems, and can improve bone health. Drinking kefir can reduce the inflammation that causes asthma.

Although made of dairy products, non-dairy ones are also available for this sour and tasty drink. Check this link out for some recommendations.

Green Olives

Known for their medicinal benefits and culinary value, olives are fruits enjoyed in many dishes like sandwiches, pizzas, salads, pesto, and even appetizers.

The health benefits include antioxidant properties, lower bone loss, anti-cancer properties, aids digestion, improved circulation, and better skin. It also reduces inflammation, which can prevent allergic reactions with the help of antihistamines.

However, seasonal pollen allergy can also be caused by olives, with effects like congestion, sinus headaches, asthma, and wheezing. It’s better to avoid in such cases. 

Miso

A Japanese soybean paste Miso can be converted into a probiotic-rich broth with protein and vitamins to improve immunity, get rid of gut bacteria, and alleviate diarrhoea, constipation, and gastroenteritis.

Miso soup can prevent mucus buildup in the nasal passage, especially during allergy season. 

Red Grapes

Juicy grapes contain high antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, improving immunity, lowering blood cholesterol levels, and relaxing blood vessels.

Red ones are preferred more than blush or white as part of the home treatment for seasonal allergies. 

Tempeh

A fermented soy product – Tempeh, is versatile in terms of the dishes it is used in and the health benefits it provides – filled with protein, prebiotics, vitamins, and minerals.

It helps in digestion with the process of fermentation; the protein in it increases metabolism by burning more calories. Natural plant compounds called isoflavones are also beneficial for reducing cholesterol levels, containing antioxidants.

The microorganism Bifidobacterium bifidum present in soy is helpful for symptoms of constipation, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. 

This is an excellent vegetarian replacement for meat. However, if one experiences hives, swelling, and breathing difficulties, those are signs of soy allergy, which need to be checked. Check this article out for details.

8. Kombucha

kombucha
By galsand/unlimphotos.com Copyright 2022.

This fermented tea drink, originating in China and a popular beverage in Asia, has several health benefits:

1) The acetic acid present during its making is filled with antibacterial and antimicrobial effects, beneficial for curing infections like the common cold, sinuses, and flu.

2) The probiotics present in kombucha can help in improving gut health and the overall digestion process.

3) During the fermentation process, the tea in kombucha is filled with antioxidants which help with chronic illnesses like arthritis and heart problems, boosting immunity.

4) It also contains polyphenols and active anti-inflammatory agents, healing several health issues like arthritis and cancer.

Other benefits include glowing skin, better mood, and memory boosts. However, there might be chances of someone being allergic to this beverage. Check this link out to note the risks involved.

2) Other Measures For Allergies

Of course, any home treatment for seasonal allergies can be used, except for individual allergy issues.

Here are some precautions one can take:

1) Try to stay away from smoke; this can worsen any allergy symptoms.

2) In case of itchy and watery eyes, a cold compress can help. Rubbing the eyes should be avoided to reduce the irritation.

Key Takeaways

When the alternative treatments don’t work, and the symptoms worsen, the best solution is to go to a doctor who can diagnose according to one’s medical condition.

If you are interested to know the different kinds of allergy treatments available, click here.

To check out another piece on allergies, click here.  

FAQs

1. What is the fastest way to get relief from seasonal allergies?

Ans. Apart from home remedies, one can also try over-the-counter medications to get rid of seasonal allergies.

2. How can I treat myself when I have seasonal allergies?

Ans. You can treat yourself while having seasonal allergies by the following:

  • Keep yourself hydrated
  • Eat foods which are rich in vitamin C
  • Do sinus rinses

3. How to stay clean at home to avoid allergies?

Ans. To avoid allergies one must do the following:

  • Have control of the dust mites
  • Do a thorough vacuum cleaning once or twice a week.
  • Check the spread of cockroaches
  1. Buch, Nils H., and M. Balslev Jorgensen. “Congestion and hemorrhage in middle ear of newborn.” Archives of Otolaryngology 80.1 (1964): 60-68. ↩︎
  2. Vaezi, Michael F., et al. “Proton pump inhibitor therapy improves symptoms in postnasal drainage.” Gastroenterology 139.6 (2010): 1887-1893. ↩︎
  3. Eyerich, Stefanie, et al. “New biological treatments for asthma and skin allergies.” Allergy 75.3 (2020): 546-560. ↩︎
  4. Jiang, Yongliang, et al. “Assessments of different kinds of sham acupuncture applied in randomized controlled trials.” Journal of Acupuncture and Tuina Science 9.4 (2011): 199-203. ↩︎
  5. Maintz, Laura, and Natalija Novak. “Histamine and histamine intolerance.” The American journal of clinical nutrition 85.5 (2007): 1185-1196. ↩︎

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