The beach as an allergy cure

Sneezy from ragweed? Turns out that one of the best places to go for an allergy cure might be the beach.

According to this MSN report, pollen counts are naturally lower by the shore because of higher humidity levels.  When there’s a lot of moisture in the air, pollen has no place to go, so the counts stay low.

Plus, what’s a better mind clearer than sitting on an empty beach? A dip in the water is not out of the realm of possibility, either. Today, the water temperature’s at 62 degrees. Not bad for mid-October.

The beach has long been touted as a place for respite. That’s how Atlantic City was born, though the rational behind Dr. Jonathan Pitney claiming Atlantic City a “health resort” seemed more financial than medical (he wanted a railroad built to the town). Still, it’s hard to argue that sitting on the beach is bad for your health. I’ve long used a hot summer day as a way to tamp down on an eczema flare up, per doctor’s orders. The salt water and sun kill the itch without the need for prescription medication.

So how do you use the beach as part of your medicine cabinet? Let us know in the comments.

P.S. October is Eczema Awareness Month. For more information, go to www.nationaleczema.org.