Natural remedies for hayfever, also known as allergic rhinitis, can provide relief from the bothersome symptoms without the potential side effects of pharmaceutical drugs such as drowsiness.
Hayfever occurs when the immune system reacts to pollen or other allergens in the air, leading to symptoms like sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.
Here are some effective natural remedies to consider:
1. Local Honey: Consuming raw, local honey may help your body build tolerance to pollen. Bees use local pollen to make honey, so by ingesting it, you expose your immune system to small amounts of allergens.
Start taking a teaspoon of local honey daily several weeks before allergy season for the best results.
2. Quercetin: Quercetin is a natural flavonoid found in foods like apples, green tea, red onions, garlic and raspberries. It has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which can help reduce allergy symptoms.
Consider taking quercetin supplements along with other flavaniods such as rutin and hesperidin or increasing your intake of quercetin-rich foods during allergy season.
3. Elder : Elder (Sambucus nigra) is an herbal remedy that has been shown to reduce hay fever symptoms. It contains a range of flavanoids and can help relieve sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes. Along with Eyebright (Eupharsia officinalis)
it can reduce cattarh and inflammation.
4. Nasal Irrigation: Using a saline nasal rinse can help flush out allergens from your nasal passages, reducing congestion and inflammation. Neti pots or saline nasal sprays are readily available at most pharmacies or health stores.
5. Essential Oils: Certain essential oils, such as eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint, have anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties. You can diffuse these oils in your home or add a few drops to a bowl of hot water for steam inhalation.
6. Probiotics: Gut health plays a significant role in the immune system's response to allergens. Consuming probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or taking probiotic supplements may help balance your gut microbiome and reduce allergy symptoms.
7. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties and may help reduce the severity of hay fever symptoms. Include vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, strawberries, and kiwi in your diet or consider vitamin C supplements.
8. Chamomile: Chamomile is another great herb that can help to reduce the symptoms of hayfever. It also contains a range of flavonoids and anti-inflammatory, antiallergic and anticatarrhal properties.
Try drinking 2 to 3 cups per day.
9. Acupuncture: Some people find relief from hay fever symptoms through acupuncture. This traditional Chinese medicine practice involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and reduce allergic reactions. You may also be given some Chinese Herbal Medicine to take that will help to relieve your symptoms.
10. Stay Informed: Be mindful of pollen counts and try to stay indoors during peak pollen times. Use air purifiers in your home to filter out allergens, and keep windows closed during high pollen seasons.
When you do need to go outside during high pollen season, line the inside of your nose with Papaw Ointment to inhibit pollen from touching the lining of your nasal passages.
While these natural remedies can provide relief for hayfever, it's essential to consult with a Naturopath before starting any new treatment, especially if you have severe allergies or are taking medication for other conditions. They can help you create a personalized plan that suits your specific needs and ensures your safety and well-being during allergy season.