An estimated 40-50 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies: the stuffy head, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing etc. Most people seek allergy relief through medication since it promises a quick, 12-hour fix so as not to be bothered by sniffling and sneezing throughout their busy day. However, alternative health treatment is steadily on the rise, with the vitamin industry taking in billions of dollars per year. More people are looking for natural allergy relief in a bid to obtain relief, minimize allergy symptoms and strengthen the immune system. Studies show that not only natural approaches are effective in improving allergy symptoms, the best part is that the unwanted side effects of traditional medication such as drowsiness can be avoided.

Diet plays a big role in immune function, as about 20 percent of our immune cells are in the intestines. Many naturopathic doctors believe certain nutrients can help tone down seasonal allergy symptoms. Fruits and vegetables with the deepest hues such as berries, spinach and red grapes are highest in antioxidants which help prevent the free-radical damage to cells that weaken immunity. Beta-carotene (also found in brightly colored produce) and vitamins C and E posses anti-inflammatory properties that may help decrease the swelling in airways, as is quercitin, a plant compound found in apples and grapes.

Using nutritional supplements, a natural allergy treatment program known as orthomolecular approach has been developed to strengthen the body. These supplements will work in different ways to provide allergy relief. Some herbs and nutrients strengthen the adrenals so that the body’s ability to fend off attack by allergens is increased, while others work as natural decongestants and antihistamines to keep breathing passages clear. Still other herbs and dietary supplements relieve the inflammation that often accompanies allergies.

Herbs can be an important addition to our natural allergy treatment regimen as they are generally considered to be quite safe. However, some natural substances may interfere with certain medications: for example, goldenseal should not be used for those with high blood pressure, and licorice should not be used by those with diabetes, high blood pressure, and liver or kidney disorders.

Turning the focus from the medicine chest to the kitchen cabinet, some allergy relief can be found in the form of hot, spicy foods. Experts suggest that spicier dish will increase blood flow, bringing oxygen to the nasal passages and helps thin and eliminate mucus. Among the most frequently recommended spices for this purpose include hot ginger, fenugreek and cayenne pepper, as well as the traditional garlic and onion. Drinking water helps clear airways by hydrating mucous membrane: the wetter the membrane, the thinner the mucus. Also, choose food that contain omega-3 fatty acids and avoid food additives, dairy, wheat and sugar.