Each time the weather changes, it means that seasonal allergies will soon be in full swing. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, seasonal allergies affect as many as 30% of American adults. Due to climate change, seasonal allergies are becoming more prevalent. The average length of pollen season is also increasing – this results in more overall pollen production. What are some natural tips for battling seasonal allergies?

When an individual has seasonal allergies, it means that their body overreacts to allergens. According to Natural Health Magazine, the body treats the allergens like a virus and releases a histamine to fight back against them. As a result, you may experience sneezing, coughing, scratchy throat, nasal congestion, fatigue, sinus pressure and itchy or watery eyes. You can’t simply ignore seasonal allergies, either. If allergies aren’t treated properly, then the sufferer can develop sinus infections, ear infections, or asthma. There are several over-the-counter and prescription medications available to help treat seasonal allergies. These include antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids that can leave you feeling drowsy and sometimes worse off than if you had chosen not to take anything.

What is a natural minded mom to do? Check out these tips for fighting seasonal allergies:

Quercetin

This bioflavonoid is found in onion and garlic. It helps prevent your body from releasing histamine and can be taken in supplement form. You may find that you benefit even more by taking it with bromelain, an anti-inflammatory that’s found in pineapple.

N-acetyl Cysteine

An antioxidant, n-acetyl cysteine can break up the mucus that’s making you feel congested. When you’re experiencing seasonal allergies, try to take it with 1,000 to 2,000 milligrams of vitamin C each day.

Stinging Nettle

This is an herb that’s similar to quercetin. Stinging nettle acts as a natural antihistamine as well as an anti-inflammatory. There are a variety of ways to try it, including a tea or pill form.

Butterbur Leaf Extract

A study published by the British Medical Journal found that butterbur leaf extract is as effective as antihistamine drugs at controlling symptoms of hay fever. You can take one tablet up to four times daily. Be sure that the tablet you’re taking contains 8 milligrams of the active ingredient Petasin.

If you’re interested in more than just herbs and natural supplements to fight off seasonal allergies, consider trying one of these:

Acupuncture

According to a study published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine, acupuncture can provide relief from allergy symptoms. Acupuncture also helps to calm your body’s immune system and decrease inflammation that’s common with seasonal allergies.

Changing Your Diet

You can make your allergies worse by eating certain foods. If you want to tame your seasonal allergies, change up your diet. Be sure to avoid foods that can trigger your allergies, such as bananas, melon, zucchini and cucumbers. Check out these other healthy diet tips for busy moms.

Homeopathy

This type of treatment against seasonal allergies will require you to choose the remedy that’s right for your specific symptoms. Natural Health Magazine suggests using Allium cepa if you have burning nasal discharge or frequent sneezing when outdoors. Euphrasia is good for bland nasal discharge, while Sabadilla helps with intense sneezing.

Do you suffer from seasonal allergies? What remedies work for you?