Natural solutions for hayfever
Hayfever, which is also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common atopic and seasonal disorder. It is predominantly linked to high concentrations of pollen release in late Spring, Summer and Autumn. The unpleasant reaction is caused by the release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals into the bloodstream.
It is generally worse in the morning and evening. Allergies such as those to dust mites and animal hair cause a similar reaction. Other related factors are lowered immunity, stress, dybiosis (increased permeation in the intestinal wall) and genetics.
Types of pollen which can cause hayfever:
Spring - tree pollen
Summer – Plants, Grass, and tree pollen
Autumn - Ragweed
SYMPTOMS
The typical symptoms associated with hayfever are:
Itchy, red eyes
Watery discharge from both the nose and eyes
Sneezing
Fatigue
Nervous irritability
Hayfever can be distinguished from the common cold/onset of flu by the type of discharge which will remain watery and clear with hayfever, whereas for a viral discharge it will be thicker and can turn yellow or green with the presence of deepening infection. Often those who suffer from hayfever can suffer from other inflammatory disorders such as asthma, dermatitis, eczema etc.
NUTRITION
• Avoid mucus forming foods esp. wheat and dairy but also processed and refined foods and sugars. Alternatives to dairy – almond, oat, rice or coconut milk.
• Include more fresh fruit esp. bananas and vegetables, also wholegrains, nuts and seeds.
• Horseradish is very good for congestion and runny noses.
• Locally sourced honey – 2 dessertspoons per day
• Garlic/Ginger – both drying and warming and will help clear any congestion, plus garlic is a natural antibiotic.
• Onion – anti-oxidating, anti-inflammatory and antihistamine!
• Drink plenty of water, at least 1 - 1.5 litres a day.
HERBS
Immunostimulants - Ashwaganda, Astragalus, Eleuterococcus, Echinacea.
Antihistamines & Anti-inflammatories – Turmeric, Nettle, Chamomile, Melissa, Baical Skullcap, Echinacea, Yarrow
Elderflower, Eyebright, and Plantain – good astringing and toning qualities for mucous membranes
Chamomile or elderflower (anti-inflammatory) with some honey (antibiotic and soothing), lemon (astringing?) and ginger (warming and dry, decongestant?)
Liquorice tea – soothing on mucus membranes and respiratory system
SUPPLEMENTS
Vitamin C (3,000 – 10,000mg*3 per day) - natural antihistamine, kiwi is a great natural source
Magnesium – (300-400mg daily) low intake of magnesium has been linked to allergic conditions, taking magnesium reduces inflammation in the body
Bromelain – (1,000 mg * 3 per day) – anti-inflammatory which occurs naturally in pineapple
Co-enzyme Q10 – (10-30mg 83) Vitamin A – (25k ui daily) - Essential for healthy mucus membranes
Vitamin B complex – (100mg *3) anti-inflammatory and immune system boosting properties Probiotic - to ensure the immune system is balanced and uncompromised
Zinc – (50-80mg daily) powerful healing properties
*Recommended allowances are based on adults and should be adjusted for children
OTHER HELPFUL TREATMENTS
- Cool cucumber slices over eyes
- Eyewash to cool sore, itchy eyes – infusion of chamomile and eyebright. Allow to cool completely before using as a rinse on each eye.
- Place a few drops of chamomile and lemon oil on tissue and inhale to prevent hayfever symptoms.
- Chamomile and eucalyptus in a steam inhalation – a few drops of each in a bowl of steaming water and place a towel over your head. Stay there for a few minutes and repeat as needed throughout the day. This is anti-inflammatory and will allow you to breathe more easily clearing the nasal passages.
- Homeopathic – Sabadille
- Grapeseed extract – regulates inflammation response in the body
Hopefully these tips allow you to enjoy the Spring and Summer days ahead of us.
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