Spring is just around the corner. It’s a time of the year that many people look forward to because of the warmer temperatures and the beauty of colors as trees and flowers begin to blossom. Unfortunately, what makes spring so beautiful for many people leads to misery for those who suffer from seasonal allergy symptoms.

Fresh cut grass, blooming trees and flowers, and weeds release pollen, causing seasonal allergies in an estimated 40 million to 60 million people each year. Conventional medicine treats seasonal allergies with injections and pills, which unfortunately, create side effects and fail to address the root problem. Natural allergy treatments can be as effective and, in many cases, more effective than allergy medications.

​Listed below are 8 natural remedies that you can do now to protect yourself and lessen the effects of seasonal allergies.

Raw local honey – 2-3 tablespoons per day: Raw local honey is at the top of this list, for good reason. In a randomized controlled study published in the International Archives of Allergy and Immunology, patients that consumed honey had significantly better control of their allergy symptoms than those on conventional allergy medications.

Spirulina — 1 teaspoon per day: According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the consumption of spirulina stops the release of histamine that causes allergy symptoms.

Freeze-dried stinging nettles –  300–500 milligrams twice per day: Stinging nettle contains antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce the body’s production of histamine. If you are taking lithium, sedatives, blood thinning medications, medication for diabetes or high blood pressure, be aware that stinging nettle can cause adverse interactions with these medications.

Butterbur – 500 milligrams per day: In a recent study of hay fever sufferers, the antihistamine properties of butterbur was found to be as effective as some allergic rhinitis medications without the drowsiness. However, young children, pregnant or breast-feeding women should not take butterbur supplements.

Apple cider vinegar – helps to boost the immune system, helps to break up mucus and supports lymphatic drainage. Three times per day, mix 1 tablespoon of ACV with 1 tablespoon of fresh-squeezed lemon juice, and a half-tablespoon of local raw honey and drink.

Eliminate dairy – dairy causes inflammation and histamine production for many individuals and can irritate a person’s sinuses. Opt for dairy substitutes from coconut, almond or cashew milks. Also avoid other foods like peanuts, sugar, artificial sweetners, wheat and soy as well as any foods that you know you are sensitive or reactive to.

Essential Oils — Diffusing essential oils, including menthol, eucalyptus, lavender and peppermint oil, helps to open up the nasal passages and lungs, improves circulation and relieves stress.

Chiropractic Care – A study published in 2004 on 1,028 people with some form of allergies showed that over 71% of patients showed improvements in their overall allergy symptoms. In fact, it has been my personal experience treating patients over the past 17 years, that many patients experience reductions in allergy symptoms and elimination of allergy medications from season to season. Compare that to 0% improvement of the patients who did not receive adjustments.

At Stanly Wellness Center, we are eager and ready to help you and your families achieve the best health possible. If you are looking for help with your health or you know of someone who is suffering with poor health, call the office of Stanly Wellness Center at 980-355-7600 and schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation with Dr. Patrick Ess to see how he can help. Dr. Ess will not waste your time or money. He will let you know if he can help you, and if he can’t, who in the community can.​

Our office specializes in nutrition, detoxification and neurological correction. You can also refer to our website at www.AskDrPatrick.com for more information. We accept most major health insurances including BCBS, Aetna, Humana, UHC, Medicaid and Medicare.

Stanly Wellness Center is located right on Main St (24/27) in Locust and is situated next door to the Locust Post Office and the Dollar General across the street from the Wells Fargo Bank.