Just when you think allergy season is over, late summer brings a new wave of sneezing, congestion, and watery eyes. For those searching for natural remedies for late summer allergies, including relief from ragweed pollen, mould spores, and dust mites, August and September can be particularly challenging months.

If you're looking for relief without relying solely on medications, Dr. Mercola, a board-certified family medicine osteopathic physician (DO) and multi-best-selling author, offers natural approaches that address the root causes of allergic reactions.

Dr. Mercola explains that late summer allergies aren't just about avoiding triggers. They're often a sign that your immune system is overreacting, and supporting your body's natural balance can provide lasting relief.

Understanding Late Summer Triggers

Late summer presents unique challenges. Ragweed begins releasing pollen in mid-August and continues through the first frost. High humidity encourages mould growth both indoors and outdoors. Dust mites thrive in warm, humid conditions.

Dr. Mercola points out that many people experience increased sensitivity during this time because their immune systems may be stressed from months of heat, travel, and schedule changes.

Natural Antihistamine Foods

Certain foods contain compounds that act as natural antihistamines and can help reduce allergic responses. Dr. Mercola recommends incorporating these foods into your daily routine:

  • Quercetin-rich foods like onions, apples, berries, and green tea help stabilize mast cells and reduce histamine release
  • Local honey may help build tolerance to local pollens when consumed regularly over time
  • Vitamin C-rich citrus fruits, bell peppers, and leafy greens support immune function and have natural antihistamine properties
  • Omega-3 fatty acids from wild-caught fish help reduce inflammation and support respiratory health

These foods work best when eaten consistently rather than just during flare-ups.

Support Your Respiratory System

Dr. Mercola emphasizes that keeping your respiratory passages clear can significantly reduce allergy symptoms. Saline nasal rinses help flush out allergens before they trigger reactions. Using a neti pot or saline spray once or twice daily provides immediate relief.

Steam inhalation with eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil can help open airways and reduce congestion. Dr. Mercola suggests doing this for 5 to 10 minutes in the evening to clear accumulated irritants.

The Gut-Allergy Connection

Your digestive system plays a crucial role in how your immune system responds to allergens. Dr. Mercola explains that about 70% of your immune system is located in your gut, making digestive health essential for managing allergies.

Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir provide beneficial probiotics that help balance your immune response. Dr. Mercola also recommends avoiding inflammatory foods like processed sugars and refined grains, as these can make your body more reactive to environmental allergens.

Environmental Modifications

Creating a cleaner indoor environment can significantly reduce allergen exposure. Dr. Mercola suggests keeping windows closed during high pollen days and using air conditioning with clean filters. Wash bedding in hot water weekly to eliminate dust mites.

Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors to remove pollen before it spreads throughout your home.

Herbal Support

Several herbs have traditional uses for respiratory support. Dr. Mercola notes that nettle leaf has natural antihistamine properties and can be consumed as tea. Butterbur has been studied for reducing nasal inflammation. Bromelain, found in pineapple, may help reduce respiratory congestion.

Timing and Prevention

Dr. Mercola emphasizes that prevention works better than reaction. Monitor local pollen counts and plan activities accordingly. Early morning and late evening often have lower pollen levels than midday.

Begin incorporating immune-supporting foods and practices several weeks before your typical allergy season starts, rather than waiting until symptoms appear.

Building Long-Term Relief

Managing late summer allergies naturally requires patience and consistency. Dr. Mercola reminds us that supporting your body's natural defences is a gradual process that builds over time.

Focus on reducing overall inflammation through diet and lifestyle choices. Manage stress levels and ensure adequate sleep, which helps your immune system function optimally. By addressing allergies from multiple angles, you can achieve meaningful relief while building greater resilience for future seasons.

Originally published on IBTimes UK