The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that more than 36 million American's are affected by hay fever. Hay fever, allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction causing flu-like symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms of hay fever include a runny nose, sneezing, irritated eyes and nasal congestion. The American Academy of Otolaryngology says that over-the-counter drugs are commonly used to treat hay fever, but for those who prefer a drug-free approach, there are home remedies.
Avoidance
The best home remedy for hay fever is to avoid allergens, according to the National Library of Medicine. During springtime, pollen counts are at their annual high point so people suffering from hay fever should avoid spending long periods of time outdoors. If a person is outdoors, she should shower and change cloths to avoid any pollen residue affecting her hay fever symptoms. An individual should keep the windows and doors closed, and the air conditioner running at home and in the car. If hay fever is the result of dust mites or mold, a person should use dust mite cover on the mattress and pillow cases, and kill all visible mold using bleach.
Nasal Wash
The National Library of Medicine states that the use of a neti pot, known as nasal wash, may help mild hay fever by removing excess mucus and allergens in the sinus cavity. A neti pot is a pot designed to rinse the sinuses using a saline solution. The saline solution is mixed with warm water and placed in the neti pot. The user places the pot into one nostril and slowly pours into the sinus cavity, allowing gravity to pull it through and out the other nostril. Once a person completes one rinse in a nostril, he should gently blow his nose and repeat on the other side. A neti pot may be used as often as needed, even as a preventative measure.
Herbal Supplements
Shrub butterbur extracts may help prevent hay fever, according to the Mayo Clinic. The extract a person uses for human consumption should be labeled "UPA-free," indicating that harmful toxic substances have been removed. Some other possible herbal supplements that may help with allergic rhinitis are nettle, Tinospora cordifolia, cat's claw, choline, goldenseal, bromelain and belladonna, according to the Mayo Clinic. An individual should consult her doctor before using any herbal supplements.
