Natural Hay Fever Solutions
By Jessica, July 5, 2010
For some, the bloom of spring means basking in flower-filled gardens and outdoor activities. For others, it means streaming itchy eyes and congested nasal passages until the blessed release of winter’s bad weather.
Hay fever can wreak havoc with summer plans and unfortunately the number of sufferers is increasing every year. While many of us ingest a cocktail of over the counter remedies, and the subsequent dose of drowsiness, there are also some natural alternatives out there.
Here we have listed five of the most common natural hay fever treatments to help you through the annual plague of pollen.
Quercetin
As medical as it sounds, this antioxidant occurs naturally in a number of fruit and vegetables. It is though to be a natural anti-histamine, which fights symptoms of allergies such as sneezing and itching. It can be found in apples, berries, red grapes, red onions, capers and black tea, or you can take it as a supplement.
Homeopathy
There are several homeopathic capsules for treating hay fever available in health food shops, or take supplements of nettle leaf, Echinacea, garlic, butterbur or devil’s claw and see if they help. However some of these supplements may have side effects or may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions, who are taking medications or who are pregnant.
Diet
Some studies have indicated there is a possibility that people who have allergies to grass pollens may react in a similar way to tomatoes, peanuts, wheat, carrot, celery, peach, melon, eggs and pork. Take note of any changes in your diet around spring, or any worsened symptoms after eating certain foods, and mention it to your doctor.
Air Purifiers
Unfortunately pollen finds ways of getting into our homes, meaning we don’t always escape the worst of hay fever symptoms once indoors. If you find this is the case, invest in an air purifier. These filtering devices trap the pollen particles in the air and prevent them from circulating around your home.
Acupuncture
This natural healing practice can be used to treat a number of conditions, and has been said to improve symptoms of allergies. Book yourself in for one or two sessions a week for a few weeks and see if it works for you.
