Some of the symptoms of pollen allergies include sneezing, runny nose, congestion, dry eyes, itchy eyes, watery eyes and a sore throat. According to the Mayo Clinic, springtime is the worst time of the year for pollens, as this is when grasses, flowers and trees begin to bloom. While you cannot avoid pollen allergies entirely, there are several home remedies you can use to reduce your symptoms in lieu of prescription medications.
Step 1
Use a saline nasal spray. Place the bottle below each nostril and firmly squeeze. The mist will not only hydrate dry nasal passages, but also help force any pollens out. Gently blow your nose on a tissue after a few seconds.
Step 2
Run a dehumidifier to keep the environment within your home dry, as humidity tends to worsen allergies.
Step 3
Apply eye drops to minimize redness and discomfort associated with pollen allergies. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can only increase the irritation and put more pollen into your eyes from your hands.
Step 4
Mix 1 to 2 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar in 250ml of water. Drink the mixture at the onset of allergy symptoms to help relieve the irritation. Inhale the vinegar vapors through your nose to open nasal passages. Avoid overuse, as vinegar is acidic. Mix honey, tea or juice with the vinegar in place of water to improve the taste.
Step 5
Purchase honey and beeswax made in your area. Eat 2 tbsp. of honey each day and chew the beeswax for five to 10 minutes. Begin this treatment at least two months before allergy season to help desensitize you to the pollen in your location. Be cautious, as the honey may further irritate your allergies.
Step 6
Consume fresh citrus fruits to boost your vitamin C intake and reduce your allergy symptoms. Try oranges, limes and lemons. Make fresh-squeezed lemonade using a bit of the rind, and drink it several times daily.
Tips and Warnings
- Minimize your exposure to pollens by staying indoors, when feasible. Check the pollen forecast online at sites like Pollen.com. According to MotherNature.com, the best way to treat pollen allergies is to prevent them. Anti-histamines can also reduce the inflammation and congestion associated with allergies. Pain relievers can minimize headaches and sinus pressure pains. Keep your car windows rolled up in the spring to prevent the pollen from entering your car. Remove your clothes after being outdoors during prime pollen season. The pollens can attach to your clothing, skin and hair. Keep the pollens out of your home by running the air conditioning or keeping windows closed as much as possible. Wash your hands and face after being outdoors to reduce some of the pollen that has come in contact with you. Consider taking a shower. Vacuum and dust your home frequently during pollen season. This will keep the pollens out. Ensure your vacuum has a HEPA certified filter to remove allergens from the air as well as the surfaces you vacuum.
Things You'll Need
- Dehumidifier
- Saline nasal spray
- Tissues
- Eye drops
- Apple cider vinegar
- Honey
- Beeswax
- Citrus fruits
