It’s that time of year again the flowers, the birds, the pollen, the allergies. Many of us welcome the passing of winter, but for some, spring is synonymous with watery eyes, runny noses and chronic fatigue.  If you suffer from spring allergies, it is best to start your allergy prevention strategies by March.

Allergy Prevention Basics

It is possible to prevent spring allergies- and the basic rules of allergy prevention apply.  The first goal is to minimize exposure to pollen.

Drive with car windows raised

It might be tempting to skip the AC on a beautiful spring day, but keeping car windows raised can lower your exposure to pollen.

Leave shoes and jackets outside

Pollen on shoes and jackets can track into the house or living quarters increasing exposure to pollen and other allergens.

Use a HEPA filter

HEPA filters help to decrease pollen by removing pollen and common allergens from living areas.

Request an allergy free room

If your spring plans include travel, remember to request an allergy free room. 

Saline irrigation

Irrigation of nasal passages also helps to clear pollen and control allergy symptoms.

Remedies for Allergies: Supplements

Allergies are a sign of a weakened immune system.  Preventing allergies involves rebuilding the immune system while treating allergy symptoms.

Probiotics

Probiotics are good bacteria needed by the gut to digest food adequately. Probiotics play an important role in immune support and help to prevent and treat spring allergies.  Look for a probiotic with 10-20 billion CFU and at least 3 strains of bacteria.

Quercitin

Quercitin is found in apples and onions and functions as a potent anti inflammatory and natural antihistamine.  The average dose is 500 mg twice a day.

Bromelain

Bromelain is also a natural antihistamine and is found naturally in pineapples.  Bromelain and quercitin can be found together in a product called DHist, which has been found to be as effective as Zyrtec in prevention and treatment of allergies.

Amla or Indian Gooseberry

Amla is a potent antioxidant that boosts immune function.  It also plays an important role in allergy prevention.  The average dose is 500 mg per day.

Omega 3s

The Omega 3 fats are important in preventing inflammation, improving the immune system and preventing allergies. The average dose is 2 grams per day.

Stinging nettles, butterbur and honey are other supplements that help ease allergy symptoms.

Homeopathy as Remedy

Homeopathic remedies are finding a role in allergy treatment.  Euphrasia is a homeopathic remedy that helps with watery, itchy eyes.  Allium Cepa is another favorite, helping more specifically with the symptoms of runny nose and frequent sneezing. 
Allium cepa is found naturally in garlic and onions.

 Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture as Remedy

Starting acupuncture 3-4 weeks prior to allergy symptoms can help prevent spring allergies.  Acupuncture, based in bioenergetics has multiple roles of rebalancing the immune system and treating allergy symptoms.

 Medications as Remedy

Antihistamines are typically used in medicine to treat allergy symptoms.  Zyrtec, Claritin and Allegra are well known antihistamines that can help alleviate allergy misery. 

With the right steps taken early, allergies can be prevented.  Get ready for spring allergy season by observing these allergy prevention steps.