Pollen is coming!

We finally got some rain, so you know what that means. Clouds of pollen will soon blanket Butte County, triggering drippy noses, puffy eyes and difficulty breathing. Over-the-counter medications may provide temporary relief when allergies strike, but there are a wealth of other remedies that you may want to try in preparation for the impending sneeze season.

• Subcutaneous and sublingual immunotherapy: Studies in Medicina Universitaria and the American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy found that small allergen doses can help train your immune system.

• Probiotics: Good for your gut, and the journal Clinical & Experimental Psychology found certain strains lower nasal congestion.

• Acupuncture: The European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology revealed acupuncture three times a week for four weeks reduces allergy symptoms.

• Spirulina: A study in the European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology indicated that patients who took the algae supplement had improvements in congestion and sneezing.