Allergies can make life miserable for many of us, to varying degrees of severity. Certainly, it's important to consult with a doctor and come up with a treatment plan that works for you. However, some prefer to go the natural route, or supplement their existing medical treatment plan with holistic treatment options.
Adding or removing certain foods from your diet can help. For example, green tea is a surprisingly effective antihistamine. Spicy foods are a great way to naturally clear out any kind of nasal congestion. Dairy products can make nasal passages more congested. If you are allergic to ragweed, foods like bananas, chamomile, and sunflower seeds belong to a similar family and can trigger allergic reactions.
If you are unsure which foods may be triggering your symptoms, visiting an allergist can be a huge help. A blood test can provide a rough idea of the kinds of foods you are allergic to, and an elimination diet can be even more effective when directed by a medical professional.
Aside from diet, a neti-pot is a nasal irrigation device and a drug-free method to clear nasal passages. Some naturopaths also tout acupuncture as an effective way to keep allergies under control. Quercetin is an over-the-counter supplement that can drastically reduce symptoms as well.
Some individuals prefer to steer clear of standard Western medicine, while others find it provides them some relief but doesn't fully get the job done. No matter where your personal preference falls, there's a combination of actions you can take to minimize the impact allergies has on your life.