Updated: Friday, 19 Mar 2010, 12:17 AM EDT
Published : Thursday, 18 Mar 2010, 5:16 PM EDT
Newtown, Conn. (WTNH) - A Connecticut company is behind an all-natural product that could help those with seasonal allergies.
Dr. Mitchell Lester specializes in allergies. He says when taking medication it comes to down to effectiveness and a patient's tolerance.
"So if you take an anti-histamine that makes you sleepy, that might not be the right one for you, particularly in the morning, in contrast if you take one that doesn't make you sleepy but doesn't help, why take it," Dr. Lester explained.
Many allergy sufferers turn to over the counter medications for relief.
"A lot of times they are looking for something over the counter, they just don't want to go to the doctor, they just want something quick," said Genevieve Robinson, Rite Aid pharmacist.
Among the products on drug store shelves that could spell relief -- Sinol.
"If you're congested, it will relieve your symptoms in minutes," said Paul Carpenter, Sinol USA.
The main ingredient has its roots in pepper.
"It's called capsaicin which comes from the pepper plant, it's an oil. They use it in cooking, so it's an all natural substance," said Carpenter. "We started to realize that the properties were also key to allergy and sinus symptoms, relieving congestion very quickly, itchy eyes, sneezing."
About 20-percent of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies.
Sinol can be found at Rite Aid, Whole Foods or online at www.sinolusa.com