
As spring beautifully evolves into summer, many of us delight in spending more time outdoors enjoying the longer, lighter days.
And as the change in climate is welcomed by many, this is accompanied by changes in the makeup of plant pollen, which can feel less than joyous for others, managing symptoms such as itchy, watery eyes, stuffy nose, sneezing and headaches.
This condition, commonly known as hayfever or allergic rhinitis is the result of the body identifying pollen as a threat. In response, it releases antibodies to combat the perceived threat, and as these antibodies bind to cells, histamine is released, causing the aforementioned symptoms.
It is also interesting to know that since Covid-19 has been circulating, medical professionals report those who have tested positive for the virus have also displayed higher histamine levels, leading to increased sensitivity when in pollen heavy environments. The higher histamine levels can stay in the body for a considerable time and continue to cause symptoms.
There are various ways to find relief from hayfever. We have a range of natural remedies available, which reduce inflammation as well as prevent the release of histamine, thus also working preventatively and providing a solution/physical relief much earlier in the process.
You may like to consider using the following:
Honey – may desensitize your body to some pollens
Quercetin – a natural anti-inflammatory
Reishi mushrooms – anti-histamine and anti-inflammatory. It contains bioflavonoid triterpene which inhibits histamine release and oleic acid which has antihistamine actions.
Pollinosan range – The homeopathic tablets can be used to help treat allergies to grass or tree pollen as well as allergies to dust, animals and pets. The range also includes a nasal spray to cleanse the nasal passages and natural hay fever eye drops.
Nettle – natural anti-histamine and anti-itch.
Haymax – pollen balm to prevent pollen entering your nose.
Additional support can come from increasing your intake of onions and garlic (anti inflammatory foods) and oranges, lemons and grapefruit (high in vitamin C). These nutrients also come in supplement form for a high enough intake on a daily basis. You may also consider homeopathic methods, herbs and complementary therapies such as acupuncture, reflexology, Bowen therapy and kinesiology – listen to our podcast below for a roundup of the above.
Whichever solution you find is best for you, we wish you a fun and sneeze-free summer.