Allergy Season Survival Guide: Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Tips
Why Do We Get Allergies?
Seasonal allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to something harmless—like pollen—as if it were a dangerous invader. When you breathe in pollen, your body releases a chemical called histamine, which causes inflammation in your nose, eyes, and throat. That inflammation leads to the congestion, sneezing, and itching many of us experience each spring.
But here’s the interesting part: not everyone has allergies. Genetics are a big factor—if one or both of your parents had allergies, your chances are higher. Environmental exposure plays a role too. Some research suggests that growing up in an overly sanitized environment may reduce your body’s ability to build tolerance to allergens. Gut health, stress levels, and diet also affect how your immune system responds.
While we can’t always control why allergies show up, we can support our bodies in calming the response naturally.
Allergies Are More Common Than You Might Think
Allergies are among the most common chronic conditions in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 31.8% of adults and 27.2% of children have some form of allergy, including seasonal allergies, eczema, or food allergies. This means that over 100 million Americans are affected by allergies.
What About Prescription Allergy Medications?
Over-the-counter and prescription allergy medications—like antihistamines, decongestants, and steroid nasal sprays—are designed to block or reduce allergic reactions. They can be effective and sometimes necessary, especially during peak pollen season.
However, they can also come with side effects such as drowsiness or dry mouth, and many of our customers prefer to try gentler, more natural approaches first. In some cases, though, prescription support may be the only way to manage severe symptoms.
Natural Ways to Support Your Body During Allergy Season
At Good Harvest Market, we believe in a whole-body approach to wellness. If you're hoping to minimize allergy symptoms naturally, here are some trusted tips:
1. Eat to Reduce Inflammation
- A healthy gut and low-inflammation diet may help tone down your body’s reaction to allergens. Try to include:
- Leafy greens like kale and spinach
- Foods rich in omega-3s (walnuts, flaxseeds, salmon)
- Citrus fruits and pineapple for vitamin C and bromelain
2. Choose Targeted Supplements
Many customers find natural relief with:
- Quercetin – A plant compound that helps stabilize histamine-releasing cells
- Stinging Nettle – A natural antihistamine that’s been used for centuries
- Local honey – Some believe it can help your body adjust to regional pollen
- Probiotics – To support balanced immune function
Our wellness team can help you choose the right products for your needs.
3. Create a Healthy Home Environment
- Use a HEPA air filter in your bedroom
- Keep windows closed on high-pollen days
- Shower after being outdoors to remove pollen from hair and skin
- Wash bedding frequently in hot water
4. Stay Hydrated
Water helps thin mucus and keep your system moving. Add lemon or cucumber to your water, or enjoy herbal teas like peppermint, nettle, or ginger for extra support.
We're Here to Help
Allergies don’t have to take over your spring. At Good Harvest Market, we’re here to support your wellness naturally. Whether you're looking for high-quality supplements, anti-inflammatory foods, or just a little guidance, our experienced team is always happy to help you find the path that works best for you.