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Whole Health Warmer temperatures and blooming greenery make spring a welcome reprise from winter, but for the 50 million Americans who suff er from nasal allergies, they can be a recipe for sneezing and sniffl ing. Like over-the-counter antihistamines and physician-recommended medications, natural home remedies can also give you an edge against the wave of pollen, pet dander, and other springtime allergens. Neti pot. This device funnels sterile saline solution through the nose and into the sinuses, fl ushing out mucus and allergens. Remember to only use solution or boiled or distilled water to avoid infections. Nettle leaf. Available often with raspberry and peppermint leaf as a tea or in capsule form, this herb has been shown to reduce sneezing and itchy eyes. Quercetin. A biofl avonoid — a plant compound with strong antioxidant qualities — in fruits and vegetables such as apples and onions, quercetin has properties that may help reduce infl ammation. To find an allergy specialist at CHI St. Luke's Health, visit CHIStLukesHealth.org/Find-a-Doctor . A week off ? Check. Swimsuit? Check. Road map? Check. Vacation safety plan? Double-check. Whatever your schedule this year, putting safety on the agenda is always a good plan. These tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics help make packing for spring travel a cinch. Natural Answers to Allergies For more information about travel safety, talk with your pediatrician or visit PlanForIt.org. STOCK THE FIRST-AID KIT Staples include bandages, antibiotic and anti-itch ointments, gauze, and medical tape. A well-stocked kit should also have antihistamines for frontline allergic treatment, liquid ibuprofen and acetaminophen for children, insect repellent, bottled water and alcohol wipes to clean wounds, and lip balm to soothe sunburned lips and cold sores. Consider including often overlooked but useful items like a fl ashlight, premade fi nger splint, scissors, tweezers, and plastic baggies. IN THE SWIM BAG Protection at the pool and the beach extends beyond sunscreen. For babies under the age of 6 months, pack lightweight, loose-fi tting clothing, preferably made of cotton. For all children, keep a wide-brim hat and sunglasses handy. Springtime Apples may help reduce infl ammation! www.CHIStLukesHealth.org | V1N3 | CHI St. Luke's Health 3