General
Seasonal allergies — general
Seasonal allergic rhinitis affects 10-30% of adults. Herbal approaches work best when started 2-3 weeks before peak pollen. Nasal irrigation is underused and highly effective.
Key points
- ✓Nasal saline irrigation (Neti pot with distilled water) is the most effective non-pharmaceutical intervention
- ✓Butterbur (PA-free) has RCT evidence equivalent to second-gen antihistamines
- ✓Freeze-dried nettle leaf is traditional; RCT evidence is modest but real
- ✓Quercetin 500 mg bid is mast-cell stabilizing; takes 2-4 weeks to build effect
- ✓Local raw honey — not evidence-backed despite popular wisdom
Lifestyle & diet
Shower and change clothes after outdoor time, keep windows closed during peak pollen, check pollen counts, HEPA filter in bedroom, wash pillow cases frequently, start antihistamines/herbs 2-3 weeks before your typical flare.
When to see a clinician
Wheezing, severe symptoms not responding to OTC/herbal approaches, year-round symptoms, or interest in allergy testing/immunotherapy — see allergist for evaluation.