Home Remedies for Allergies

For millions of people, each change of season brings with it different types of allergy triggers and irritants. Common symptoms of allergies are a runny nose, a scratchy throat, coughing, itchy eyes and skin rashes. Those who suffer from seasonal allergies would benefit from preventive measures to head off allergies before they start.

However, if allergy symptoms do appear, you can use following simple and effective home remedies to solve the problem.

1. Peppermint

The essential oil present in peppermint acts as a decongestant and eases allergy symptoms. Peppermint also has compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and mild antibacterial properties that inhibit allergic reactions.

• To make peppermint tea, steep one tablespoon of dried peppermint leaves in one cup of boiling water for five minutes. Then strain it and allow it to cool. Add one teaspoon of honey before drinking it. You can enjoy two to three cups of peppermint tea daily until you get rid of your symptoms completely.

• Alternatively, you can hold your face over a hot cup of peppermint tea for five to 10 minutes. This will help break up mucus and clear it out of your nose and throat. Try this whenever you have difficulty breathing.

2. Steam

Steam can give relief from various symptoms of allergies. It will refresh and soothe irritated sinuses, while also cleaning the nasal passages of excess mucus and any irritants.
        1. Boil several cups of water until it produces a good amount of steam.

        2. Pour the boiling water into a big bowl. Add three or four drops of eucalyptus essential oil, peppermint essential oil, rosemary essential oil or tea tree essential oil.

        3. Drape a towel over your head and lean carefully over the bowl. Inhale the steam deeply for five to 10 minutes.

        4. Repeat one to three times a day until you recover completely.

3. Garlic

Garlic is a natural antibiotic that can effectively ward off allergies. The antiviral and immune boosting properties of garlic can literally keep the doctor away during the allergy season.

• Eat two or three raw garlic cloves daily for a week or two to combat various allergy symptoms.

• If you cannot bear the strong smell or taste of garlic, you can try garlic supplements but only after consulting a doctor.