I had really subtle allergies as a kid and into college. Nothing debilitating. But then I moved to Ohio. I don’t know if my body changed or if I’m allergic to every tree/plant in the midwest, but it’s been crazy. For the first few years here, I just didn’t have the money to invest into addressing my allergies so I never got tested or received shots.

As I got older, I didn’t want shots so I started to seek out alternate forms of treatment. Sure, you can avoid going outside, you can wear a face mask, keep the A/C running, eat local honey and take Zyrtec but it wasn’t working for me.

This (early) spring, I started doing a handful of new things that helped SO much. My allergies, in the past, have started around April and this year I’ve only had about 3 bad days. Here’s what I do:

• Acupuncture and cupping: I go to my acupuncturist, Tessa, twice a week to get acupuncture/cupping. It takes about 1.5-2 hours. It doesn’t hurt. I often fall asleep. I will continue to do this for forever. I can’t thank Tessa enough for all that she’s done for me!
• Chinese Herbal Supplement: I take Yu Ping Feng San twice a day (4 capsules) that I get from my acupuncturist and it keeps my sneezing to a minimum. Plus it tastes like toasted deliciousness.
• Neti Pot: I use the squeeze bottle version of a Neti Pot a few times a week. I’ll use it on nights when I’m congested before bed.
• Nettle Tea: Nettle Tea is one of those things where you Google it and it says it helps with like…everything. Kind of like Coconut oil ha. I try to drink it every night.
• I try to sleep 8 hours a night (lately this hasn’t worked) and eat real food.

Again, this is what has worked for me. I love not sneezing every day. I love driving with the windows down. I love being able to take morning meetings. I LOVE THE ENERGY. I hope this helps someone else.

*PS I still take Zyrtec every night. I’m too scared to stop but can tell you that it didn’t help much in years past (besides preventing my eyes from itching).