8 home remedies to ease your child's nasal allergies

Allergies are tough to take as an adult, yet they're somehow worse when it's your own child with a stuffy nose and red, itchy eyes. In order to reduce her discomfort, a trip to the pediatrician and then perhaps to a physician who specializes in treating allergies is smart. But because the ability to fight nasal allergies is linked to the strength of the immune system, trying a couple of home remedies could also help ease her suffering.

"Any foods that produce natural and high quantities of vitamin C, zinc, vitamin D, antioxidants, and other helpful vitamins and minerals can boost the immune system and are good choices for fighting nasal allergies," explains Chitra Dinakar, M.D., an allergist at Children's Mercy Kansas City. Check out the following home remedies, including fruits, vegetables, and other pantry items that can fight your tot's nasal allergies and help her breathe more freely.

Berries

Blueberries and raspberries contain vitamin C and flavanoids, which may mitigate some of the histamine response for allergies in children, according to Jack Maypole, M.D., pediatrician, associate professor at Boston University School of Medicine, and Educational Advisory Board Member of The Goddard School. "While organic is best, well-washed conventionally grown versions of these fruits are a great and healthy addition," he says. Elena Klimenko, M.D., a specialist in integrative medicine in New York City, agrees. "Try a serving of 3/4 cup once or twice a day, "she suggests. Mash ripe berries well for tots who are still learning to handle solids.

Apples

These shiny orbs also have vitamin C and flavanoids, including quercetin, which can act as a mast cell stabilizing agent. "Mast cells are important mediators of allergy because they release histamine," explains Corinna Bowser, M.D., an allergist at Narberth Allergy and Asthma in Narberth, Pennsylvania. Because chunks of raw fruit can be a choking hazard for kids younger than 4, it's best to peel and grate apples when serving. You could also bake them at 400 degrees F until softened.

Onions

The antioxidant quercetin is also found in this veggie, though you may find onions to be a tougher sell to your kid. If that's the case, this bulbous root, also known as allium cepa, can be consumed in pellet form, says Klimenko. It's safe for kids over 2 years of age (follow the instructions on the package).

See the full list of remedies via Parents.

Learn more about Children's Mercy's Division of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.