Finding Allergy Relief: Tips for Big Families

If you’d told me in my teens that I’d be waging a yearly battle with allergies in my 20s, I would have laughed. But life has a way of surprising you, doesn’t it? For me, that surprise came in the form of relentless hay fever. And as a parent in a large family, I’ve learned that finding solutions that work for everyone can be as tricky as managing a household of seven kids on a budget.

Allergies don’t discriminate—every child is different, every family is different, and every person in our home seems to have a unique set of symptoms and needs. Here’s how I’ve found ways to manage allergies while balancing the demands of family life and stretching our resources.

Budget-Friendly Indoor Allies: Air Purifiers

When allergy season kicks into gear, controlling our indoor environment becomes a priority. Investing in an air purifier made a noticeable difference for me, and it’s been a lifesaver during peak allergy season. While high-quality purifiers can be pricey, look for deals or consider smaller, portable units that can move from room to room—or even to the car. This has been a game-changer for long family road trips or carpools. If you’re in the market for one, check out this guide to buying an air purifier for your home.

For those working from home or needing relief in a dedicated workspace, this article on air purifiers for a home office might be helpful.

A Homeopathic Helper for the Whole Family

Three years ago, I discovered Boiron AllergyCalm, a homeopathic remedy that’s gentle enough to share with older kids when needed. It works best for me when I take it consistently every two hours during peak allergy days. The best part? It doesn’t cause drowsiness, which means I can stay present at work and active with my family.

Teas That Tame Allergies

I never thought tea could play a role in allergy relief, but it’s been a helpful (and budget-friendly) addition to our routine. Two teas stand out:

• Aller-Tea: This blend targets allergy symptoms and provides subtle relief.
• Nettle Leaf Tea: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it’s a natural way to reduce sneezing and congestion.

Teas are also a great way to involve older kids in self-care. Brew a pot in the morning and make it a family ritual during allergy season.

Supplements for Symptom Relief

Last summer, when teas weren’t enough, I discovered a Quercetin and Bromelain supplement. While I’d tried quercetin alone before, pairing it with bromelain made all the difference. This combo has been my go-to for intense allergy days. It’s worth noting that supplements aren’t one-size-fits-all, but they’re an option to explore if your family is open to natural remedies.

Lessons Learned as a Family

Managing allergies in a big family is all about flexibility and creativity. What works for one person might not work for another. The key is to try different solutions and focus on what fits your family’s stage of life and budget. Some ideas to consider:

• Use Nutrition Journaling: I’ve found that tracking what we eat, along with days and seasons when symptoms are high, provides valuable insights. For example, I’ve identified certain foods that seem to make symptoms worse during peak allergy times. Journaling can help tailor solutions to each family member’s needs. For tips on getting started, check out this guide to nutrition journaling.
• Stretch Your Budget: Prioritize multi-use solutions like air purifiers and bulk-buy teas or supplements when possible.

Allergy season doesn’t have to dominate your family’s life. With a little trial and error, you can find what works for your crew and reclaim your days. And if you’re still struggling, it might be time to consult a professional. Every family is unique, and finding solutions that work for yours is worth the effort.