How to Fight Allergies Naturally 

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Allergy season can bring sniffles, coughing, runny nose and watery eyes for many people and they look for ways on how to fight allergies naturally. There are alternatives to prescription medications and over the counter allergy pills. Taking the natural approach may even help you save money avoiding multitudes of allergy medications that may have adverse effects.

1. Start with a healthy diet. Your immune system can fight off allergens much better if it has a strong battle ground. Eat foods that are high in vitamin C such as red and green hot chili peppers, bell peppers, dark leafy greens, broccoli (yes, your mom was right broccoli is good for you) kiwi, oranges and strawberries. Vegetables and fruit loose vitamins when cooked so eating these foods in raw form will give you the maximum amount of vitamins.

2. Consider your allergy “triggers”. What type of environment you are in? Could it be causing allergy symptoms? How can you reduce exposure? For example if you are allergic to dust try an air filter with a HEPA filter. Clean and vacuum your carpets regularly or get rid of them altogether. Dust furniture frequently so you don't get heavy dust build up. (Remember to check those ceiling fan blades.)

3. Try bee products. (If you are allergic to honey and bee products please forgo this step.) Local honey has small pollen grains in it which can help you build immunity over time. You can also try bee pollen. (You can get this online or at your local health food store.) It works best when produced within 10 miles from where you live. You can get it in capsule or granule form. Start with a few granules at a time and slowly build up.

4. Go herbal. There are many herbs that can help you battle allergy symptoms.

Here are a few that might help.
Chamomile reduces intensity and duration of allergy symptoms.
Ginger reduces inflammation due to allergies.
Bupleurum prevents swollen nasal passages.
Quercetin has an antihistamine effect, reduces inflammation and boosts the immune system. Take quercetin at the first signs of allergies and throughout allergy season.
Eucalyptus eases congestion. You can also use this is essential oil form.
Stinging nettle root reduces hay fever symptoms and stops runny nose.

There are so many options that you can use when are finding the best option for you. When you are learning how to fight allergies naturally, you can save money not having to run to the pharmacy for more allergy pills and the immune “boost” may keep you out of the doctor's office for respiratory infections that are so often associated with allergies. However, do consult your doctor before trying anything new herbal or otherwise and be sure to read the package directions for any products you use.

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