Allergies are inevitable for many of us this time of year. But that’s no reason to feel defeated! Here are a few ways to ease your allergy symptoms.
Rinse Your Sinuses
Using nasal irrigation or a neti pot will help flush out pollen, dust, bacteria, and any debris in your nasal passages. It will also rinse out mucus from your nose and add moisture, easing symptoms and reducing post-nasal drip.
Make Or Use Natural Cleaning Products
Keeping your home clean and free of dust and mold helps prevent indoor allergens. However, cleaning products can also aggravate allergy symptoms. Avoid harsh chemicals by making natural cleansers with everyday ingredients such as vinegar and baking soda.
For an easy all-purpose cleaner, combine one part white vinegar with one part water, a lemon rind, and some rosemary sprigs. Pour into a spray bottle and shake. Let infuse one week before using.
Use an Air Purifier
Air purifiers improve indoor air quality by filtering out dust and other allergens. If you have a large house, upgrade the air filter in your furnaces or A/C system. Purifiers can reduce pollution in your home, but they won’t remove all irritants, which is why cleaning regularly is also necessary.
Try Acupuncture
Some studies show promise for the use of acupuncture to alleviate seasonal and perennial allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes, red eyes, watery mucus, or even swollen eyelids. Because more research is needed, it’s best to talk to your doctor before seeking acupuncture for relief.
Steam Inhalation
Breathe easier by inhaling steam to relieve nasal obstruction, dry or irritated nasal passages, congestion, and throat irritation. All you need is a bowl of heated water and a towel. You will want to drape the towel over your head while holding it about 12 inches away from the bowl. Inhale the steam for about 5 minutes but no more than 10. Inhaling steam can also alleviate symptoms from the common cold, the flu, bronchitis, or a sinus infection.