Natural allergy remedies do exist. It is not surprising that the 26 million seasonal allergy sufferers in the United States continue to be the target of several designer allergy drugs every year, many of whom suffer more side effects from these drugs; not to mention the high cost associated with them. Some medical insurance do not cover these newer drugs because they are so highly priced. Many of todays consumers are letting their doctors know that they do not feel that these medications are helping.



Pollen flies in the air for the majority of the year. Whether it is from trees, flowers, grasses or weeds, millions of people suffer anywhere from four to eight months of the year. Suffering from allergies is not only uncomfortable due to the symptoms of the allergies, people also suffer more fatigue, migraine headaches and depression when they suffer from seasonal allergies.

While it is tempting to just lock yourself away if you are one of these allergy sufferers, there are natural allergy remedies that may help you enjoy summer just as much as someone who does not have allergies.

When an allergen hits the receptors in a persons nose, the body triggers histamines to help get rid of it. Histamines create physical responses like sneezing, itchy watery eyes and more to help get rid of the offending pollen grain. Some people, especially those who also suffer from asthma, may also experience their throat or bronchial tubes getting tight and swollen.

While most allergy medications you buy at the local store attempt to treat the symptoms, they aren't really helping the allergy. Most allergy medications are called anti-histamines, because they stop the histamine production your body instigates when it senses an allergen. This prevents the body from ridding itself of the allergen.

Neti pots are used around the world to flush the sinus cavities. While it may take some adjustments to get used to, neti pots are inexpensive and effective. By mixing non-iodized salt with water, the pollen grains are simply rinsed away. The salt water is put in the neti pot, and you bend over the sink with your head facing the side. The spout of the neti pot is placed into one nostril, and approximately half the water is poured in. It comes out the other nostril. Repeat on the other side. It may feel uncomfortable at first if you have never done it before.

Another natural allergy remedy is quercetin. Quercetin is a bioflavonoid, which helps curb the body's release of histamine. It also fights free radicals. Quercetin is found naturally in food like apples, parsley, tea, onions, citrus, tomatoes, broccoli, lettuce and wine. Supplements are also available. Quercetin should not be used by people with liver troubles or if they are pregnant or nursing.

Foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids like cold water fish, flax seed oil and walnuts can help with allergy symptoms. If you are prone to a lot of congestion from your allergies, try mixing a little horseradish, hot mustard or chili peppers with your food. They are natural decongestants. Try to avoid any foods that cause you allergic reactions, as they may trigger a stronger response while you are fighting other allergies.

There are several other natural allergy remedies around... do a little research. If you do, you'll find one that works best for you.