Green tea, cayenne pepper, nose washer, humidifier, eucalyptus oil, filter, protective clothing
Many people prefer natural remedies rather than synthetic drugs to relieve spring allergy symptoms that cause runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion. Health medicine webzine ‘Health Day’ introduced eight natural therapies recommended by Dr.
① Butterbur, which is famous as a spring vegetable in Korea, is the first of its kind. Swiss researchers found that butterbur is a powerful antihistamine that can control hay fever. “It also doesn’t cause drowsiness, unlike some over-the-counter allergy medications,” said Dr. Reed.
② Green tea also helps to reduce sneezing and itchy eyes. According to research by Japanese scientists, green tea contains substances that can block certain allergic reactions in the body.
③ Spicy foods, including cayenne pepper (a spice made by drying and grinding chili powder), equivalent to Korean red pepper powder, are also helpful. Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which is known to relieve nasal congestion. Also, allicin in garlic is an anti-inflammatory that reduces swelling and inflammation.
④ Originating in the shape of a tea kettle with a long, thin spout, a nasal washer called a neti pot helps to clear blocked sinuses. After boiling the pot and filling it with sterilized water and salt, tilt your head back and allow the solution to enter the nostril through one nostril and out the other nostril.
⑤ Seasonal allergies can dry out the nose and sinuses (air-filled empty spaces around the nose), which can lead to nasal congestion and swelling. One good way to combat this dryness is to use a humidifier, said Dr. Reed. “Humidifiers release water vapor into the air to hydrate dry noses and sinuses, reducing nasal congestion and discomfort.”
⑥ There is a study that eucalyptus oil extracted from eucalyptus tree leaves relieves allergies caused by inflammation. Adding a few drops to a bowl of steaming water and then inhaling the vapors can help.
⑦Equipping your vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air filter can also help. A high-efficiency particulate air filter removes pollen that causes symptoms in your home.
⑧ It is also recommended to wear protective clothing to reduce exposure to pollen when going out. Wear sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and long pants to prevent pollen from reaching your skin. Don’t forget to take off your clothes and take a shower when you return from outside to remove pollen.