Tired of sneezing, coughing, and red eyes? Spring has sprung and you must be tired of visiting expensive allergist/doctors/specialists and taking over-the-counter (OTC) drug after drug and incessant visits to the health food store. All this takes time, energy and money.

Instead of feeling miserable and resorting to OTC or prescription anti-histamines, try nature’s solution to allergies: honey. There are many benefits of honey.

Honey for Allergies

While the evidence regarding honey’s immunizing qualities is anecdotal, avoiding the countless side effects of taking anti-histamines are certainly worth a try. The cost savings to this remedy is also inviting: 2lbs of local honey harvested from last year is around $10 (it also lasts for a few months), versus $12 for 12-pills pack in OTC remedies.

Research shows that allergens in honey are delivered to your system in small, manageable doses, much like flu shots or immunization shots, which allows your body to build up an allergy tolerance over time. The key to this remedy is finding locally sourced honey.

An informal study conducted at Xavier University on allergy sufferers found that local honey has the most anti-allergy benefits, in comparison to non-local honey or no honey at all. Since local honey is created through local bee pollinators, chances are, you can start building your immune system against pollen that have been plaguing you all spring!

Natural Remedies for Allergies

• Check out local grocers or organic markets. Many local beekeepers run small farms and do not widely advertise their honey crop.
• Consult with your local beekeepers’ association. Visit American Beekeeping Federation website to find a local chapter near you. Another great resource is the National Honey Board. The National Honey Board filters the floral source, which is great for people who are only allergy specific to certain pollen (and not every flowering plant). The board can point you to a local honey source.
• Take one teaspoon of local honey daily. In addition to honey by itself or in your tea, supplement your immune system with probiotics and kefir to combat the allergy affects.
• Instant relief. Soak a towel in warm water, squeeze out excess water and put it over your eyes/over your forehead. Relax, while temporary, this will get you back on your feet so you can start searching local honey in your area.

NOTE: Not to be tried by children without first consulting a doctor.