You may have noticed your customers gravitating towards the "Seasonal Allergies" section more often these days. As reported by the CDC, about one quarter (25.7%) of adults and nearly 1 in 5 children (18.9%) have a seasonal allergy.
Why the spike in numbers? Today's shifting weather patterns are playing a role. You won't have to search long to find a report on the unseasonable weather across the United States. Summers have been getting hotter, winters have also been uncharacteristically warm, and reports of snow have been coming out of southern states with more frequency. These climatic changes have had three significant impacts on seasonal allergies. Experts point to:
Warmer temperatures linked to climate change are extending pollen seasons, allowing symptom triggers like ragweed to start producing pollen earlier, and to produce more pollen for longer periods.
Increased carbon dioxide levels due to climate change may make pollen more potent, which can cause stronger reactions.
Stronger winds caused by changes in air pressure allow higher buildups of pollen to travel further and faster.
Extreme environment conditions such as longer periods without precipitation, heat waves, and even thunderstorms can trigger or worsen symptoms.
9 natural helpers
Seasonal allergy relief is available in various forms, including capsule, liquid, inhalers, nasal sprays, and eye drops. To cater to those looking for a more holistic approach, the following natural antihistamines can offer relief:
Black cumin oil: With its various bioactive compounds including thymoquinone (TQ), it was given to male patients for 15 days resulting in significant improvements in nasal symptoms, ocular symptoms, and an overall reporting of a reduction in allergy symptoms from very severe/severe to moderate.
Bromelain: This enzyme found in pineapples and kefir has been researched for its effectiveness reducing allergy symptoms like nasal congestion, sinus swelling, itching, and sneezing.
Curcumin: Found in turmeric, its anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation, improve nasal airflow, boost immunity boost, and inhibit the body's release of histamine. Studies have reported on its antiallergic properties.
Omega 3 fatty acids: These healthy fats can aid in reducing inflammation. Research has shown that omega-3 FA-derived metabolites have anti-allergic functions.
Probiotics: Beneficial bacteria continue proving they are essential to almost every aspect of our health. Their influence on our immune system makes them an ideal weapon in the fight against allergies. A 2021 study showed the effects on reduced hyperactivity and inflammation caused by allergens.
Quercetin: Analysis on the natural flavonoid showed it causes antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects within the body and can prevent the body's release of histamine—the chemical that causes allergic reactions.
Vitamin C: Studies show the antioxidant can offer relief due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Vitamin D: A powerful regulator of immune responses and a reducer of inflammation, a European study found that subjects with low levels of vitamin D suffered from severe hay fever.
Zinc: The mineral is found in foods like chicken, beef, oysters, nuts (cashews), legumes (lentils), seeds (sunflower seeds), and whole grains (oats) and has been shown to help reduce seasonal allergy symptoms.
