managing allergies naturally

Some home remedies for allergies, such as nasal rinses or certain essential oils, may help relieve some allergy symptoms. But it's best to determine the source of your allergy and follow your doctor's recommendations.

Share on Pinterest 840599428 Claudia Totir/Getty Images When your immune system reacts to something that doesn't bother other people, you have an allergic reaction. Some of the main culprits of allergic reactions include: pollen dust mites pet dander mold spores insect bites foods medications Allergies can cause a range of symptoms, such as: sneezing runny nose itching rash swelling asthma Doctors typically treat allergies with a variety of approaches, which often include medications and allergy shots. However, there are natural and home remedies for allergies that you can consider.The best natural remedy for allergies

The best natural remedy for allergies is to avoid them whenever possible. Both doctors and traditional healers will advise you to limit or avoid the allergens that trigger your allergic reaction.

You should avoid exposure to your allergens. For example, if you have had an allergic reaction to a sulfonamide, tell your doctor. He or she will likely prescribe an alternative antibiotic if you ever need one.

However, some allergens are difficult to avoid. In this case, after discussing your symptoms with your doctor, you may want to consider a home remedy for allergies to help manage the results of your allergen exposure.Home remedies for allergies

Saline nasal irrigation

A 2012 review of 10 studies found that saline nasal rinses have beneficial effects in both children and adults with allergic rhinitis, often called hay fever.Air filters

Consider using an air filter in your indoor environments.

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are one type of air filter to consider. By trapping airborne irritants such as pollen, dust, and pet dander, HEPA filters reduce allergens in your home.

Butterbur

A 2003 Trusted Source review found that butterbur (also known as Petasites hybridus) is as effective for itchy eyes as a commonly used oral antihistamine.

Bromelain

Bromelain is an enzyme found in papaya and pineapple. Traditional healers consider bromelain to be an effective remedy for improving breathing by reducing swelling.Acupuncture

A 2015 reviewTrusted Source of 13 studies concluded that acupuncture demonstrated positive results for both seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis.

Probiotics

A 2015 review of 23 studies by Trusted Source found that probiotics may help relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis..

Honey

Although there is no scientific evidence to support this, one popular theory suggests eating locally produced honey. According to this theory, over time you will reduce your allergic reaction to the pollen that bees collect in your area to make honey.Air conditioners and dehumidifiers

By removing moisture from the air, air conditioners and dehumidifiers can limit the growth of mildew and mold that can negatively impact allergies.

Spirulina

A 2015 studyTrusted Source found that dietary spirulina, a blue-green algae, demonstrated anti-allergy protective effects against allergic rhinitis..

Stinging nettle

Traditional medicine practitioners recommend nettle as a natural antihistamine that helps treat allergies.Quercetin

Quercetin is a favorite of natural healing advocates who believe that it stabilizes the release of histamines and helps to control allergy symptoms. It’s naturally found in broccoli, cauliflower, green tea, and citrus fruits.

Vitamin C

Natural medicine practitioners recommend taking 2,000 milligrams of vitamin C daily to reduce histamine levels.

Peppermint essential oil

A 1998 studyTrusted Source found that treatment with peppermint oil had enough anti-inflammatory effects that reduced asthma and allergic rhinitis symptoms to warrant clinical trials. Essential oils can be diffused into the air, but they must be diluted in a carrier oil when applied topically.Eucalyptus essential oil

Advocates of natural healing suggest using eucalyptus oil as an antimicrobial agent by adding it to each load of wash during allergy season.

Frankincense essential oil

According to a 2016 study, frankincense oil can help treat allergic rhinitis year-round. You can dilute it in a carrier oil and use it behind your ears, or use it to inhale by spraying it into the air.Precautions when using home remedies for allergies

Don’t use home remedies to treat severe allergic reactions, or anaphylaxis, which can be identified by symptoms such as:

shortness of breath tightness in the lungs chest pain changes in blood pressure dizziness fainting rash vomiting If you experience these symptoms, seek medical help immediately. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening.
Additionally, using essential oils is not without risk. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not monitor the purity, quality, or packaging of essential oils. It is important to use essential oils as directed and to make sure you are using quality products.
Test the essential oil mixed with a carrier oil on intact skin, such as your forearm. If you do not have a reaction within 24 hours, it is safe to use. Test all new essential oils, especially if you are prone to allergies.

Takeaway

While there is some evidence that home remedies for allergies can be effective, it's a good idea to discuss them with your doctor before trying them. Get a full diagnosis and listen to your doctor's recommendations on what's best for you and your personal situation.

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