You just can’t beat those long summer days with flowers in full bloom, hipster bees daintily hopping from one sweet blossom to another, birds ululating gentle songs to each other, and then, there is you, piercing the silence and this scene with an almighty Achoo! Welcome to the hayfever season.
For those reading this through sore, streaming eyes, firstly; we feel you. Hayfever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic reaction to pollen and other environmental allergens. More importantly, it’s a massive pain in the arse (and eyes).
While reaching for the nearest antihistamine might be your first instinct, why not explore natural relief for your itchy eyes and runny nose? Antihistamines can cause drowsiness, hindering your ability to enjoy those long, lovable days outdoors. But fear not; we’ve got 12 natural hayfever remedies to help you see the light – without that unwanted drowsiness attached.
Quercetin – The Mighty Flavonoid
Surprisingly, apples and onions have a common feature: they are packed with quercetin. This mighty flavonoid has been found to inhibit the release of histamines, those sneaky culprits behind your hayfever discomfort.
Try incorporating quercetin-rich foods or supplements into your diet for a few weeks before hayfever season kicks in. Here’s to finally enjoying onions without shedding a hayfever-related tear, at least.
Spirulina – The Green Superhero
Spirulina—sounds like a fancy dance move, but in reality, it’s a type of blue-green algae that proudly dons the superhero cape in the world of hayfever relief. This green super-soldier has been shown to reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
Get your groove on with spirulina supplements or incorporate it into smoothies or protein bars. Let your hayfever defenses leap tall buildings in a single, joyful bound.
Acupuncture – Pointedly Brilliant
Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese practice that stimulates specific points on the body, has been shown to be effective in treating hayfever symptoms, with some studies even showing lasting benefits well after treatment ends. It’s like keeping your hayfever at bay with a few strategically placed toothpick pokes (by a trained professional, of course).
Herbal Sidekicks – Butterbur & Stinging Nettle
Butterbur and stinging nettle sound like characters from a medieval fairytale, but they’re actually potentially powerful herbal allies in your hayfever battle. Both herbs have antihistamine properties that may help reduce inflammation and ease symptoms; a dynamic duo, indeed.
Herbal Teas – Bottom’s Up
Herbal teas, such as green tea, chamomile, elderflower, ginger, peppermint, and anise, have been found to have natural antihistamine effects. These teas can help limit the effects of hay fever and keep you hydrated throughout the day. Chamomile tea, in particular, contains flavonoids that act as anti-inflammatories and can help relieve red, swollen eyes.
Read: 5 herbal teas to drink when facing the menopause
Vitamin D – Is There Anything Sunshine Can’t Do?
Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to the development of allergies and autoimmune diseases. Ensure you spend time outdoors every day or incorporate a vitamin D supplement into your diet to support your immune system and hopefully reduce those pesky hay fever symptoms.
Probiotics – The Gut Defenders
A healthy gut can be pivotal in your immune system’s ability to respond to allergens. Enter probiotics, the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains that have shown promising results in reducing hayfever symptoms. Bring on the yogurt, kefir, and kimchi as a delicious side dish to allergies.
Read: Why probiotics could be an important part of a healthy lifestyle
Steam Session – Sauna Saviours
Invite your stuffy nose to a steamy party to see off hayfever (maybe). Inhaling warm, moist air helps clear nasal passages and relieve congestion. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil for added benefits. Let the steamy nostril-gazing begin!
Nose Rinsing – A Saline Salute
Flush away pollen and other irritants with a saline nasal rinse using a neti pot or bulb syringe. Think of it as a gentle power-wash for your nostrils.
Local Honey – Bees To The Rescue
Old Wives tale, effective remedy or simply an excuse to eat some delicious sugary stuff… Who knows?
While the jury is still out on concrete evidence, it’s believed that consuming local honey—produced by bees that frequent the same pollen-heavy plants causing your symptoms—may help build immunity to allergens. Honey, it’s time to bee thankful for those buzzing insects.
Outdoor Apparel – Suit Up, Boot Up
When the pollen count is high, make like a superhero and suit up! Wear a wide-brimmed hat and large sunglasses to protect your eyes and face from pollen. And, don’t forget to change and shower after a pollen-filled day outdoors, also mopping your floors and changing your bed sheets more regularly. Hey, we never said this thing was going to be easy!
Non-Drowsy Antihistamines – When All Else Fails
While not entirely natural, second- and third-generation antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are less likely to cause drowsiness compared to their first-generation antihistamine cousins. If you require medication to manage your hay fever symptoms, consider opting for these non-drowsy alternatives.
The Bottom Line
Ready to frolic in those pollen-laden fields without a single sneeze? These 12 natural hayfever remedies will keep you clear-eyed, sniffle-free, and most importantly, wide awake. Say goodbye to drowsy days and hello to the sun-soaked blossoms of summer!
*The information provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalised recommendations.*