Spring has sprung and warmer weather is here! Slowly the grass, trees, and flowers are coming to life. Unfortunately for many, the fruition of Earth’s bounty marks the start to allergy season; a necessary evil to enjoying new life and Mother Nature’s beauty.
Luckily, as it seems that every mother does, Mother Nature has a solution! Whether your allergies stem from grass, pollen, or mold, there are many herbs that can help alleviate your allergy symptoms for a more enjoyable spring experience.
Stinging Nettle
Despite its rather uninviting name, Stinging Nettle can be very effective when utilized at the first sign of allergy symptoms. This herb has been used for centuries to support clear eyes and nose – but practice caution! The plant parts that are effective in supporting symptom alleviation must be prepared by boiling the leaves to remove the tiny hairs that causing the stinging sensation that granted this herb its name (1).
Eyebright
Used since the middle ages, Eyebright has eye health supporting properties capable of reducing eye inflammation and symptoms such as watery, painful, and itchy eyes. It can be applied topically but is most effective in supporting symptom reduction when ingested.
Timothy Grass
Most known for its ability to reduce seasonal allergic reactions to grass, the pollen of Timothy Grass has the ability to gradually reduce one’s allergies and susceptibility to hay fever (1).
Other Natural Remedies
Local Honey
Given its high concentration of local pollens, many utilize honey to provide their body gradual exposure to these pollens in hopes that it will reduce the allergic reaction to them come spring. This natural remedy can be enjoyed daily in the form of a tasty spoonful of honey!
Quercetin
A well-known flavonoid that is usually found mostly in onions and apples, Quercetin is considered to be a ‘building block’ for other flavonoids. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants found in fruits, vegetables, and herbs. They are most commonly known for their ability to reduce inflammation, boost immunity, strengthen blood vessels, and improve circulation. Quercetin, in particular, is hailed as the flavanoid with the power to block the release of histamine and thereby preventing allergy symptoms – such as swollen nasal passages, congestion, sneezing, watery eyes, and itchiness in the eyes and nose.
Bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme that has the ability to reduce nasal and sinus inflammation. The enzyme is extracted from the stems and juice of the pineapple (1). It is most effective in reducing symptoms when paired with a histamine regulator such as Native Remedies SOS HistaDrops ™.
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