Outdoor allergens like seasonal pollens and molds can be difficult to manage because it seems like they’re everywhere and you can’t escape them. Many of them occur at the time you want to be able to enjoy the outdoors, too- like right now!
Tree Pollen
Here’s a closer look at a common culprit, tree pollen. Knowing what to look for can help you steer clear of these notorious allergy triggers. When it comes to trees, the real allergy troublemakers are hardwood deciduous trees — oak, elm, birch, maple, ash, alder and hazel:
- These trees generally pollinate from February to April or May.
- In the South, these trees begin pollinating as early as January; in the North, they begin in April.
- People show cross-reactivity to trees in the beech, birch, alder and oak family, and in the juniper and cedar family. This means that if you’re allergic to one type of tree, you’re likely allergic to others in the same family.
- If you’re looking to plant trees on your property, look for species that do not aggravate allergies, such as catalpa, crepe myrtle, dogwood, fig, fir, palm, pear, plum, redbud and redwood trees.
Allergy-safe Flowers
It’s spring and everything is blooming! However, moms of allergy sufferers know that sometimes the prettiest flowers can wreak the most havoc. This season, don’t go without those beautiful blooms- simply get creative and use materials around your home to create floral masterpieces. What they lack in fragrance they make up for in fun! Click here to download fun flower crafts.
Bring the Outdoors Indoors
Sunshine Smoothie
This bright and fresh-tasting smoothie is like a dose of sunshine in a glass!
Ingredients:
- 1 large banana, frozen
- 1/2 Cup of orange juice
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 1/2 Cup Greek yogurt
- 1 orange, peeled and sliced
Directions:
- Add banana, orange juice, honey, yogurt, and ice cubes to blender.
- Blend until smooth, adding more honey to taste.
- Garnish with orange slices.
Disclosure: As a member of the Children’s Claritin Mom Crew, I receive product samples and promotional items to share and use as I see fit. No monetary compensation has taken place and any opinions expressed by me are honest and reflect my actual experience.