Managing allergic reactions naturally involves changes to behavior and diet while also relying on natural antihistamines. Thankfully, seasonal allergies are reasonably predictable. For ragweed sufferers, for instance, the problem months will be mid-August until the first winter frost. Time outdoors should be limited and the home environment should be sealed as tightly as possible. No open windows or cooling systems that draw air in from the outside should be used unless the air passes through a filtration system before entering the home.

Neti Pots

A valuable tool in the war on allergens, the neti pot, looks rather like Aladdin's lamp. The premise is simple. If allergens in the nasal passages are triggering the release of histamines, wash the irritating allergens away. Think of the rinse as a more aggressive version of over-the-counter saline nasal sprays, (which are also effective in mild cases and do not carry the risk of addiction.)

A 1/4 to 1/2 of non-iodized table salt is added to a cup of lukewarm water in the neti pot. Lean over the sink with the head cocked to one side. Fit the spout of the pot in one nostril and gently pour the water into the nose, allowing the stream to drain out the other nostril.

Repeat on the other side of the nose, then gently blow to remove excess moisture. Doing this twice a day during allergy season, particularly upon rising in the morning and when coming in from time spent outside, will significantly decrease the severity of seasonal symptoms. As an added bonus, using a neti pot also improves snoring.

Dietary Changes