You made it through spring and the yellow storm of pollen, so you may think you’re in the clear when it comes to sniffling, sneezing and itchy eyes.

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Not so fast…here comes the fall allergy season.  If you suffer from spring allergies, chances are pretty high you’re going to feel it again in late summer into the cooler fall days.

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Things like ragweed, goldenrod, and grass pollen are seasonal allergy culprits.  Add the damp leaves piling up on the ground, which lead to mold spores.  And don't forget to add dust mites to the list that will likely get stirred up by open windows or finally turning the heat on again.  All of these add up to a perfect allergy storm!

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Instead of grabbing the over the counter medications that make you feel like a zombie, lets think about other, healthier ways to feel better and breathe easier.

• Cleanse your nose.  Pollen clings to mucus membranes.  Use a saline nasal spray or a neti pot to keep your nasal passages clear.
• Explore supplements.  Try Quercetin, which has been shown to block the release of histamines.  As an added bonus, it has also been shown to help with the absorption of Vitamin D (which we are all taking, right?).  Quercetin is found in red onions, apples, red grapes, and black tea.  If you’re taking a supplement, Dr. Mercola recommends between 200-400 mg/day.  Also consider taking extra Vitamin C, a natural antihistamine.  500-100mg three times a day should help reduce symptoms.
• Try natural remedies.
  • Hot peppers are a natural decongestant.
  • Consider apple cider vinegar.  It is said that ACV helps boost the immune system, helps break up mucus, and supports lymphatic drainage.  Mix 1-2 tablespoons with a glass of water and lemon juice 3 times a day.
  • Add essential oils to tea, a bath, or a diffuser. Peppermint, basil, eucalyptus, and tea tree oils all help detox, fight  infection, and help you breath easier.
  • Have a teaspoon of local honey. Over time, this may help reduce your allergy to pollen.
• Take probiotics.  Many studies link the presence of good bacteria to reduced incidence of allergies.
• Try to get your exercise done in the early morning or evening when allergens are less.  And shower off that pollen as soon and you are done!

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Try these natural remedies to keep your allergies at bay and enjoy a clearer, healthier fall!