GC’s Guide to Treating Spring Allergies

Story by Camille Wachholz
Feature Photo via Flickr

All of the plants are emerging, the sun is out and the grass is green again. Unfortunately for some, all these new plants are releasing pollen, which is a major allergen.

When the body senses a foreign allergen, histamines are released into the blood which trigger a runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing and more, which is why doctors commonly prescribe antihistamines to treat symptoms.

Not sure if you’re allergic to something? A doctor can easily give you an allergy test. Severe allergies obviously require medical attention, but mild ones can most likely be eased with over-the-counter medicines and home remedies.

Complementary to medicine, what you eat and drink can also help to relieve allergy symptoms, like hot green tea with honey. The tea contains natural antihistamines, and the warm temperature will soothe a sore throat.

Another tip: avoid spicy foods. Even though they’re delicious, spicy foods can further irritate allergy symptoms. The exception to this rule is wasabi, the spicy green paste served with sushi. Eating wasabi can actually help clear a stuffy nose due to its heat.

Raw produce can trigger symptoms because of possible pesticides. Washing your fruit and vegetables can help. Don’t cut out fruit or vegetables, though, because a lot of produce contains enzymes that can help counteract histamines.

Finally, eat probiotics like yogurt. They contain good bacteria that will boost your immune system.

If you own a juicer or a blender, there’s a lot of great recipes to get those fruit enzymes. Two are included below for reference.

“Allergy Bomb” Juice

Ingredients

• 1 cucumber
• 1 green apple
• 1 head of parsley
• 2 lemons, peeled
• 1 small handful of fresh mint
• 1 knob of ginger

 

 

“Sweet Drop” Juice

Ingredients

• 2 apples
• 2 oranges
• 1 cup sliced pineapple
• 1 or 2 knobs of ginger

Directions

• Prepare all the ingredients. Add to blender or juicer, and enjoy.