Spring is upon us!
Flowers blossoming, the magical sounds of birds tweeting; and let’s not forget the wondrous feeling of allergies that leave you with bloodshot eyes and a stuffy nose.
If you are one of the lucky few facing spring armed with your loyal antihistamines, here are five easy steps to make the season ahead more bearable.
1. Cut down on hair products
If you use hair gel or any other sticky hair-based products, this is the time to cut down on it. Pollen naturally sticks to your hair and clothing, but with hair products such as gel, you become a pollen magnet.
2. Enjoy a cup of peppermint tea
Not many know this, but peppermint tea can suppress allergy symptoms. Furthermore, it helps by clearing up congestion, while the essential oil in peppermint will help reduce inflammation.
3. Clean your pets regularly
Pets bring you unconditional love, but in spring they can bring you uncontrollable allergies. Be sure to wipe your pets fur off before they enter the house as fur can trap pollen, dust, mould and other allergens,
4. Spicy foods to the rescue
What better way to combat allergies than through the delightful way of eating some spicy foods. Spicy foods such as hot peppers, curry or chili seasoning are apparently good for getting rid of allergies. A chemical in spicy foods called capsaicin causes your nasal membranes to produce more mucus, which leads to natural drainage.
5. Cover up
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when going outside. Not only will this protect you from the sun, but will prevent pollen sticking to your hair and getting into your eyes.