Seasonal Allergies? Here’s a Maine-Made Cure for You, Honey

It's allergy season in New England, and my car is covered in a layer of pollen. The pollen madness got so bad that I had to hose off our patio furniture to eat dinner outside last weekend. Not only do I see that pollen, but mama, I feel it. Our bodies react to pollen as if it were an invader, similar to a bacteria or virus, so we have the same response.

What Are Seasonal Allergy Symptoms?

-runny nose

-sneezing

-watery, itchy eyes

-coughing

-sore throat

-difficulty breathing

-headaches

Not great symptoms to have during a pandemic.

What Can Help?

Over-the-counter medicine is available to help with allergies, but they make me feel weirdly wired and sleepy at the same time. I haven't had much success taking that route, but a friend had a different, natural suggestion for me; local honey.

How Can Local Honey Help With My Allergies?

The theory, according to an article from the Tom's of Maine website, is that the trace exposure of local pollen in the honey can build up a tolerance for it in your system. According to the article, the potential anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial benefits are best from the purest, unfiltered honey. What we buy from the shelves at most grocery stores has had the pollen filtered out of it, and most of it is from away.

How Much Honey Should I Eat For Allergies?

There's no definitive answer to that question because research continues, but sites that I visited recommended at least one tablespoon a day. I should note that there are many scientists skeptical that honey helps prevent allergic reactions to pollen, but my friend swears by it, and I'll try anything at this point.

Who Should Not Eat Raw Honey

Folks who have severe pollen allergies should not experiment with unfiltered honey because it could lead to allergic reactions that include; anaphylaxis, itchy throat, skin or mouth, and trouble breathing. Babies younger than a year old should never be fed unprocessed honey because of the risk of botulism.

How to Eat That Honey

The idea of eating a tablespoon of thick honey is overwhelming to me, but as long as you don't heat it, you can hide it. Honey is delicious on scones and biscuits, on ice cream, smoothies, as sweeteners in cold drinks like iced tea, and as a topping for yogurt.

I'm going to try this out myself after a trip to the Farmer's Market this weekend to purchase some of that local gold. Have you tried this? Hit me up on the Blimp Fan Page and share your tips and experiences. I have to go blow my nose again; you have a great day.