Itchy, watery eyes. Stuffy nose. Or, a runny nose. Scratchy throat. Fatigue. Facial pain. Postnasal drip with a side of coughing.

All of those symptoms are signs it is that time of year again – allergy season.

Allergies are exaggerated immune responses to substances that are generally not considered harmful. When you come into contact with something you are allergic to, your immune system releases a chemical called histamine, which triggers an allergic reaction and all of the annoying symptoms.

There are many different kinds of allergies, including food and skin allergies. Seasonal allergy – also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis – is a type of allergy that occurs when your immune system overreacts to airborne particles such as dust, dander, or pollen, causing symptoms such as a runny or itchy nose and sneezing. Pollen, a common allergen, is a substance released by every tree, flower, and weed.

Seasonal allergies can make life absolutely miserable. Unfortunately, so can the medications that are used to treat symptoms. Prescription and over-the-counter drugs for allergy relief can cause a long list of unpleasant side effects, including fatigue, dry mouth, stomach problems, nasal dryness and irritation, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, and sleep problems.

There are natural ways to reduce seasonal allergy symptoms.

The good news is that you don't have to resort to using pharmaceutical drugs to find some relief from all that sneezing and itching. Here are natural ways to reduce (or even eliminate) seasonal allergy symptoms.