Ah, signs of spring—longer days, crocuses popping up, and … sneezing. For one in seven U.S. children, the symptoms of seasonal allergies start now and can last through the fall. Seasonal allergies (also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis) occur when something in the air, such as tiny tree particles, grass, weeds, or pollen, comes into contact with nose membranes and triggers inflammatory chemicals called histamines, causing sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, cough, and runny nose. While not life threatening, allergies can interrupt your youngster’s sleep, weaken concentration, and keep him or her from participating fully in play and school.

Over-the-counter allergy medications can bring relief, but like any conventional drugs, they are not without drawbacks. “I don’t think decongestants and antihistamines are appropriate for kids, period,” says Randall Neustaedter, OMD, a doctor of Oriental medicine and homeopathic pediatrician. “They tend to make kids tired, and they don’t really address the problem. They’re like putting a Band-Aid on the symptoms. It’s more important to build up immune system function, which these medications do not do.” Long-term use of antihistamines has also been linked to depression, anxiety, and impaired thinking.

You can help reduce and even eliminate your child’s allergy symptoms gently and naturally by reducing contact with allergic substances and boosting the immune system—or, in Chinese medicine terminology, “strengthening the constitution.” Here’s how.

1. Clean inside air.

Outside, pollen is impossible to avoid, but indoor air is another matter. Get a HEPA air filter, which removes pollen and dust from air, and run it in your child’s bedroom 24 hours a day. The portable models work fine in smaller rooms and cost less than $100. Also, on windy days and while your child is sleeping, keep windows shut. If possible, rip out old carpet and cover air vents with filters, vacuum frequently when your child is not in the room, avoid ceiling fans, and wash all bedding and stuffed animals once a week.

Next page: Keep the nose clean and provide a low-inflammation diet