Allergy season is upon us, and for the millions of people who suffer from allergies, it can be a miserable time of year. The good news is that there are natural, holistic approaches to finding relief and boosting your immunity. While over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief, they often come with unwanted side effects and don’t address the root cause of the issue. So, what can you do to naturally support your body and find long-lasting allergy relief?

First, let’s understand what an allergy is. An allergy is an abnormal response by your body’s immune system to a substance that is generally harmless to most people. When your body detects this substance, called an allergen, it releases histamines and other chemicals, leading to symptoms such as a runny nose, itchy eyes, congestion, and sneezing. Allergens can be found indoors and outdoors and can include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or certain foods.

A holistic approach to allergy relief focuses on supporting the entire body and strengthening the immune system, rather than just treating the symptoms. One of the key principles of holistic medicine is that the body has an innate ability to heal itself when given the right tools. So, here are some natural ways to boost your immunity and find relief from allergies:

Nourish your body with whole foods: A healthy diet is foundational to a strong immune system. Focus on eating a variety of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These provide the nutrients your body needs to function optimally and help reduce inflammation, which is often at the root of allergy symptoms.

Support your gut health: A healthy gut is key to a strong immune system as approximately 70% of your immune cells are found in the gut. Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi in your diet, as well as prebiotic fibers found in asparagus, artichokes, and bananas, to nourish the good bacteria in your gut.

Boost with targeted supplements: Certain supplements can provide extra support during allergy season. Vitamin C, for example, is a natural antihistamine and can be found in citrus fruits, or taken as a supplement. Quercetin, a plant flavonoid, acts as a natural antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer, helping to reduce allergy symptoms.

Strengthen with herbal remedies: Nature offers powerful herbal remedies that can help alleviate allergy symptoms. Butterbur, for instance, has been shown to be as effective as some antihistamines in reducing inflammation and treating hay fever symptoms, without causing drowsiness. Nettles are also used to treat hay fever and allergic rhinitis, helping to reduce congestion and itching. Always speak to your healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplements to ensure they are safe and won’t interact with any medications you’re currently taking.

Address stress: Chronic stress can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to allergies and other illnesses. Find healthy ways to manage your stress, such as through meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or spending time in nature.

Try acupuncture: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. It has been found to be effective in treating allergies by reducing inflammation and regulating the immune system.

Remember, finding what works best for your body may take some trial and error, and a combination of these approaches may be most effective. It’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement or treatment, especially if you have a pre-existing health condition or are taking medication.