Allergy relief: banish seasonal symptoms naturally.

As winter draws to a close, it's difficult not to welcome the first signs of spring. Yet, while many of us eagerly await the blooming of crocuses and daffodils, others are stockpiling tissues and eye drops--lamenting the barrage of allergy-causing pollen that's soon to come.

This spring, allergies will afflict nearly 50 million Americans with itchy eyes, runny noses and other irritating maladies. But while the underlying causes of allergies remain something of an enigma, there are many proven strategies to help reduce symptoms.

best defense

According to Amber Ackerson, ND, of Portland, Oregon, your first step toward allergy relief should be to make an environmental change. "It's important to reduce the overall allergen load, especially in the bedroom," she says. Avoiding the most common allergy triggers--pollen, dust and air pollutants--is the key. Changing the filters in your air conditioner and heater can reduce the amount of dust in your home. And replacing regular bed linens with hypoallergenic ones can lessen your exposure to allergens.

Ackerson also stresses avoiding alcohol and cigarettes, as both tend to thin mucus membranes, which increases histamine release. Aspirin has a similar effect, so it, too, should be used sparingly. In addition, studies have shown that emotional factors such as stress or anger can fuel the onset of allergies.

radical remedies

If environmental changes aren't enough to quell your symptoms, however, it's time to start looking for more immediate relief. In response to the yearly allergen onslaught, more sufferers are choosing natural remedies for their ability to combat symptoms without the side effects of pharmaceuticals.