Spring time is the best! It is when everything wakes up and starts blooming after the long dead winter. It is simply beautiful, but anyone who suffers from seasonal allergies knows that springtime can be both a blessing and a curse. The rising pollen counts herald unpleasant reactions such as congestion, itchy eyes, sneezing and headaches. Many seek limited relief from over the counter allergy preparations that have unwanted and unnecessary side effects, more natural remedies may alleviate symptoms without the unpleasant side effects.

While allergies can range from mild to severe, there are some supplements that can offer sufferers relief.

Butterbur

The herb appears to work as an inflammation inhibitor, which blocks some chemicals that trigger swelling in the nasal passages.

Some research shows that an extract of butterbur root (Ze 339) are just as effective at relieving nasal symptoms as antihistamines like Zyrtec and Allegra. Butterbur has the advantage of not causing sleepiness, a common side effect of antihistamines.

You should not eat raw, unprocessed butterbur root. Look for brands of specialized butterbur supplements that are labeled UPA-free; a certain percentage or milligrams of the helpful compound petasin may also be mentioned. Keep in mind that experts aren’t sure about the safety of using any butterbur supplements in the long term.

Phleum pratense

A few studies have found that a sublingual tablet made from pollen extracts from Phleum Phleum pratense can reduce some pollen allergy symptoms, such as eye irritation, in people with asthma, as well as help decrease symptoms in people suffering from hay fever. It also allowed people to reduce the dose of their allergy medicine.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine, helping to reduce nasal secretions and inflammation. 

Luckily, this vitamin and the flavonoids occur together in many foods, such as berries, plums, citrus fruits, peppers and brcocoli. Another option is to take extra vitamin C supplements during allergy flair-ups.

Echinacea and Goldenseal
An Echinacea and Goldenseal combination may help keep allergies in check. Echinacea is anti-viral; Goldenseal is anti-bacterial and soothes the mucous membranes.

Both herbs help to support immune response, which often becomes compromised due long-standing allergies. An Echinacea and Goldenseal combination may also be effective for treating, as well as preventing sinusitis.

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