Take Action Now To Ward Off Hay Fever!
The longer evenings and milder weather herald the onset of sunnier times for most people. But for those with hay fever, the beginning of summer just means pollen and pain. In Ireland, the high pollen count usually begins sometime in June which means sneezing season is almost upon us so it’s time for hay fever sufferers to take action now!
Most people rely on conventional treatments such as antihistamines and steroids to relieve symptoms but there are natural alternatives worth exploring and they work best if you do them in the months leading up to pollen season. See below for my top picks of natural supplements to ward off/minimise hay fever:
Natural Supplements:
A healthy gut flora is an essential part of building resistance to allergies so consider taking a probiotic supplement along with eating probiotic foods such as live yogurt, sauerkraut and miso soup.
Cod liver oil helps to reduce inflammation of the mucous membranes and high doses of Vitamin C and the antioxidant Quercetin both act as natural anti-histamines so a supplement containing both is highly advisable – a Quercetin Complex can be purchased in health stores. Foods naturally high in Quercetin and Vitamin C include cranberries, cherries, peppers, onion, apples, blueberries and broccoli.
Helpful Herbs:
First and foremost it’s vital that you stay hydrated in order to help flush your system of toxins so aim to drink at least two litres of pure water per day. Herbal teas such as Nettle, Rooibos, Chamomile, or Ginger count as part of your water intake and can also help to soothe mucus membranes and decrease allergies symptoms. Chamomile teabags placed on the eyes, can also help to soothe itchy eyes and reduce redness. Steam inhalations can be useful too. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to hot water and inhaling the steam will help clear nasal congestion.
