(Natural News) Allergies can make people miserable. Sometimes, an allergic attack may even endanger the life of a person. Fortunately, there are natural methods for treating allergies that provide relief from symptoms without causing adverse effects.

An allergy may develop from exposure to foods like nuts and seafood or to airborne pollen. It may also involve hay fever and contact dermatitis.

People should recognize the symptoms and decide on the appropriate natural treatment for a specific allergy. They should look up the type of allergy they have and refer to their medical history before picking the method that best suits their need.

People with allergies should always try to avoid allergens first and resort to treatment only when necessary. By reducing overall exposure to the source of the allergic reaction, they can minimize the symptoms of an allergy and preserve their general well-being.

An allergy counts as an immune response, a reaction of the body’s natural defenses against disease-causing bacteria and viruses. If a person suffers from a severe allergic reaction or experiences one frequently, his immune system may become compromised. This can make him more prone to illnesses. (Related: Allergy alert: How to naturally treat the spring sniffles.)

Clear out an allergy-clogged nose with nasal flushing

Health care providers often recommend nasal flushing to patients who want or need additional relief from allergic symptoms. This home remedy helps decrease irritation and stuffiness in the inflamed nasal passages and sinus cavities.

The saline solution used for nasal flushing can flush allergens and surplus mucus out of the nose and sinuses. In addition to rinsing out allergy-causing substances and declogging stuffy nasal cavities, nasal flushing also soothes inflamed tissues, making it easier and less painful to breathe.

Saline nose drops are available at pharmacies. They can also be made at home using clean water, pure salt, and baking soda.

Use distilled water or boiled tap water for the preparation. This homemade saline solution can be stored for three days at room temperature.

To use this saline wash, fill up either a medical syringe, a squeeze bottle, a neti pot, or a nasal cleansing pot with the saline solution. Insert the tip of the container inside the nose and gently squeeze. Make sure to aim toward the back of the head. The saline solution must go either through the nose and out of the mouth or exit through the other nostril.

If the idea of pouring liquid into the nose lacks appeal, take a nasal spray instead. Use the saline solution once a day to help wash allergens and mucus out of the nasal passages.

Take these natural treatments for allergic attacks

Black seed (Nigella sativa) is a popular herb used in traditional medicine. Modern-day researchers believe that black seed can alleviate the symptoms of allergy attacks.

Studies show that black seed can decrease coughing and wheezing in patients with asthma. Black seed also has a natural ability to reduce tissue inflammation.

Black seed contains several compounds with antioxidant activity. Antioxidants provide support to the body and the immune system. By maintaining balance, these beneficial substances reduce the severity of allergic reactions.

There are other natural remedies for allergy symptoms. Patients may take a tablespoon or two of apple cider vinegar or local honey, add bee pollen and probiotic foods to their diet, or take nettle leaf tea. They may also increase their physical activity through exercise and drink lots of water to avoid dehydration, which makes allergy attacks worse.