Allergies can be lessened by any of a wide choice of natural remedies.

I researched through some sites to find reputable info on natural remedies for allergy treatment. I’m posting excerpts from 2 sites below. The first excerpts are from a health site called Mother Earth News. The second set of excerpts is from an interview with Dr. Cliff Bassett which took place on Good Morning America. It is significant to note the agreement between the 2 sources for natural allergy relief. Please follow the links to read these articles in their entirety.

These excerpts are from Mother Earth News suggested natural remedies. Please click the above link for their full article.

Neti Pots have been used in India for thousands of years to flush the sinuses…It’s a bit like using nasal spray. [Studies show it is also an] effective way to treat seasonal allergies in children, and markedly reduced their use of antihistamines. Netis are inexpensive and widely available online and at natural food stores. Use about twice a day during allergy season..You also can use a neti pot before bed to prevent snoring caused by allergies and promote optimal overnight breathing. [Find full description for use on the Mother Earth News site.]

Quercetin A natural plant-derived compound helps stabilize mast cells and prevents them from releasing histamine. Quercetin also is a natural antioxidant. The recommended dosage is about 1,000 milligrams a day, taken between meals. It’s best to start treatment six weeks before allergy season. Those with liver disease shouldn’t use quercetin, so please consult your doctor.

Allergy Fighting Foods [Studies show people] who ate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids were less likely to suffer allergy symptoms. Add a dash of horseradish, chili peppers or hot mustard to your food as natural, temporary decongestants.

Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) is without the unwanted side effects of dry mouth and drowsiness [as with allergy drugs]. Studies have shown that taking about 300 milligrams daily will offer relief for most people, although the effects may last only a few hours.

Butterbur is another alternative to antihistamines, is as effective as the drug cetirizine, the active ingredient in Zyrtec, [but] butterbur did not cause drowsiness. Participants in the study took 32 milligrams of butterbur a day, divided into four doses. A word of caution though – butterbur is in the same family as ragweed, so it could worsen allergy symptoms in some cases.

These excerpts of suggestions for natural allergy relief are from an interview Allergist Dr. Cliff Bassett did on “Good Morning America.” Please click the above link for their full article.

Butterbur: Butterbur is another name for petasites. The plant is toxic but some studies show butterbur is effective in treating allergy symptoms.

Quercetin: Has been shown to reduce sinus pain and congestion.

Homeopathic Nasal Mists: Saline and salt water sprays help wash away the pollen from the nose, which reduce the need for medication. Plus, they are inexpensive.

Antioxidant Fruits and Vegetables: Grape seed extract has been shown to be effective. Apples, bananas and onions have anti-inflammatory properties. Some foods in certain people cross-react with tree pollen and will cause allergy symptoms, including apples, pears, kiwi, cherries, peaches, nectarines, celery, carrots, parsley, peppers, hazelnuts, walnuts, and almonds.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: A German study found that people who ate foods high in Omega-3 fatty acid, like salmon, tuna and walnuts, had the fewest allergies.

Avoid Echinacea for Allergies: Echinacea is the most popular supplement in the country. It does build up the immune system and protect against colds but can actually worsen seasonal allergies.