Got Spring Fever? No? Then You Must Have Hay Fever...

If you're anything like me, then Spring for you is a mixed bag. You get to bask in the beautiful weather, attend outdoor events and activities, and stand in line at Rita's water ice (seriously, why aren't these open in the winter?) However nothing comes for free and with the beautiful weather comes an increased pollen count. For some, these three words don't mean much, but for others they are three words to be feared. Allergy seasons can be just as bad, if not worse in some cases, than flu season. Though there is no way to truly combat allergies there are some things we can do to help ease us through the coming months.

You don't need to rid your home of houseplants
Yes, plants, along with trees, grass, mold, etc... are the biggest offenders of high pollen counts. It may seem fruitful to keep your allergies in check at the expense of your houseplants, but fret not as there are several plants you can have throughout your home with low pollen counts including, begonias, nasturtiums, crotons, peace lilies, miniature roses, and passionflowers. However even with these, plants are a large collector of dust, so be sure to dust them (along with the rest of your house) weekly. Also be sure not to over-water your plants as this can eventually lead to moldy soil.

Natural anti-histamines
In addition to your surroundings there are also several natural, ingestible antihistamines like the herbs parsley, thyme and bay or vegetables like broccoli, kale, onions and garlic that can help.  Okay, yes, garlic is not a vegetable, it's neither an herb or a spice, so what is it? you tell me. You can even grow these yourself in your home garden, just be sure to plan ahead and find out the optimum times for growing and harvesting.  Vitamins D and C also help fight histamines, you can either take vitamin supplements for D and C or eat citrus fruits high in vitamin C.

Other tips and tricks to fight pollen

• Oddly enough, I've read washing your hair after a day out is a good way to fight pollen as your hair is a big catcher of it.
• Washing your sheets, comforters, etc... weekly.
• Dusting and vacuuming your home.
• The use of a Neti Pot (several people in the office swear by these)

Or really, when all is said and done, just pop a Benadryl. Happy Spring!

You have any tips for fighting seasonal allergies and Hay fever? Let us know in the comments!

~ James
Garden Media Group