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Home Remedies for Pollen Allergies

Pollen allergies occur in the spring, summer and fall because of trees, grass and weeds. The American Academy of Family Physicians says tree pollen usually affects people during late April and May, grass and weed pollen affects people from late May to mid-July, and ragweed affects people from late August to the first frost. Common symptoms of pollen allergies include runny, itchy noses, watery eyes, sneezing and congestion. Symptoms worsen when people are outside in direct contact with the pollen, especially on windy days. Various home remedies for pollen allergen fight these symptoms.

  1. Protect Home and Body

    • One of the best home remedies for pollen allergies is avoiding allergens as often as possible. People susceptible to allergens should avoid going outside on a dry, windy day, or wear a mask while doing outdoor activities. Keep pollen outdoors by closing doors and windows and running air conditioners while riding in cars or staying at home. If allergy sufferers live in a home, other members of the household and the person with allergies should remove clothing and clean their body so pollen doesn't spread throughout the home.

    Eat Spicy Foods

    • Spices like cayenne peppers, horseradish and garlic work as home remedies for congestion associated with pollen allergies. Adding these spices to food naturally decongest and loosen mucus, making it easier to breathe. People can eat food as hot as they can handle. The article "The Best Diet for Allergies and Hay Fever," though, does not advise this home remedy for people who are allergic to these spices and says that spices cause throat irritation and excess coughing. People not accustomed to spices should try one spice at a time.

    Consume Antioxidant-Rich Fruits

    • Foods containing antioxidants work as pollen-allergy remedies because these vitamins fight immunity and improve the condition of the lungs. Nuts contain vitamin E and magnesium, reducing wheezing and lung inflammation and improving lung function. They also reduce free radicals that cause inflammation and tissue damage. Vitamin C-rich foods like apples, citrus fruit and tomatoes serve as natural defenses against allergies. Red-grape skins reduce inflammation, protecting the body from wheezing and allergies.

    Drink Tea

    • Green, black and white teas contain flavonoids that reduce inflammation and increase immunity, which helps the body fight infection. "The Best Diet for Allergies and Hay Fever" says that starting the day with a cup of hot tea with lemon and honey prevents morning sneezing associated with allergies. Herbal teas made of fenugreek, fennel, anise and sage are other home remedies for allergies. Allergy sufferers can drink about three cups of tea a day.

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