6 ways to help reduce hay fever symptoms

Summer is here and whilst the warmer weather and brighter days are welcomed by many, hay fever sufferers may not be so excited for the season with watery eyes, itchy nose and sinus congestion being just a few of the symptoms of the allergy.

To minimise hay fever symptoms, it is recommended to start taking natural remedies 2-3 months prior to hay fever season as it takes some time for it to take effect on the body. However some remedies can provide short term, immediate relief. Read on to learn about some of the best natural remedies for hay fever.

Nettle

Nettle is thought to be a natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory, some research has linked nettle to easing some symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes. If you don’t fancy foraging at the bottom of your garden for nettle to brew into a tea, you may prefer our All Natural Organic Nettle Root capsules instead.

Reduce alcohol intake

Most alcohol including beer and wine contain histamine, a chemical that can worsen hay fever symptoms as it naturally sets off an allergic reaction to pollen.

Quercetin

This flavonoid is an antioxidant and research suggests that adding quercetin to your diet may help to relieve some allergy symptoms due to its anti-allergic and antihistamine properties. Although it can be found in many foods such as apples and broccoli, it is suggested that taking quercetin as a supplement may be more effective due to the low levels found in food. Try our Quercetin – Maximum Bioavailability capsules.

Shower after being outside

Pollen has the ability to stick to hair, skin and clothes whenever you step outside. Showering as soon as you come in from outside can minimise the amount of pollen that is stuck to your body, which will then in turn reduce the chance of your symptoms being irritated.

Local Honey

Nature’s sweet remedy! Consuming local honey may help build immunity to pollen allergies. The idea behind this remedy is that by ingesting small amounts of local pollen found in honey, your body becomes desensitized over time. Opt for raw, unfiltered honey from your area and incorporate it into your diet by adding it to tea, spreading it on toast, or mixing it into yogurt.

Probiotics

Research suggests that probiotics, commonly found in yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and other fermented foods, may help reduce the severity of hay fever symptoms. Probiotics support a healthy immune system and promote a balanced gut microbiome, which plays a crucial role in overall immune function. Include probiotic-rich foods in your diet to potentially alleviate hay fever symptoms.

Conclusion

When hay fever strikes, turning to natural remedies can provide relief and reduce reliance on medications. Incorporating these natural remedies into your routine can help alleviate symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes without unwanted side effects. However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. If your hay fever symptoms persist or worsen, it’s always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalised guidance.