Are There Any Effective Ways To Treat Seasonal Allergies Using Alternative Medicine?

David Khan, M.D., Associate Professor of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

March 25, 2008

Question: Are there any effective ways to treat seasonal allergies using alternative medicine?

Answer: There are several alternative medication regimens that have been looked at for treatment of seasonal allergies. Such things as acupuncture, homeopathy or herbal remedies have all been evaluated.

Unfortunately, several of these studies show conflicting results. Therefore at the present time, we cannot recommend that any of these therapies are indeed effective for the treatment of seasonal allergies.

One of the things to keep in mind about these therapies is that while generally thought to be safe, they are not without potential side effects. Rarely some problems can occur with these medications and importantly some of these medications may actually interfere with prescription drug therapies.

Next: What Causes Sinus Infections And What Are The Most Common Symptoms Of Sinus Infections?

Previous: I Have Heard Some People Pour Saltwater Into Their Nostrils To Relieve Seasonal Allergy Symptoms. Does It Work?