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Email: enquiries@heatonherbalists.co.uk
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HERBS AND HAYFEVER
Hayfever brings misery to many during the summer months and turns what should be a beautiful time of year to one
which leaves sufferers dreading the pollen season.
Hayfever is a reaction by the immune system to a perceived threat (an allergen).
The allergic reaction is the body's way of fighting this threat. So.... sneezing, itching, runny nose, watery eyes,
inflammation causing a blocked nose and chest wheezing are all defence mechanisms of the body!
At its worst, it can also cause diarrhoea and/or vomiting.
The number of people suffering from hayfever has been increasing, especially over the last 20 years and now, up to 20%
of the UK population experiences some symptoms of hayfever. The reason for this increase is not known,
but various theories are being researched, such as increased air pollution; reduced infections in young children leading to a more immature
immune system; increased use of antibiotics which affects the gut microflora
and then leads to exaggerated immune responses....
The ususal advice to avoid the allergen is exceptionally difficult (if not impossible) with hayfever,
but there are some steps you can take to help reduce the severity:
- Keep the windows closed in the morning and evening when pollen concentrations
are usually at their worst
- Wear sunglasses when going outside - it reduces the amount of pollen getting into your eyes
- Dry your bedding and clothes indoors to prevent pollen attaching to them and causing problems when you come
into contact with them later.
- Increase your intake of Vitamin C as it is a natural anti histamine
- Reduce your sodium intake as this increase histamine production
- Reduce caffeine and alcohol as these can make symptoms worse
Herbs to Help with Hayfever
There are lots of herbs that can provide relief from these symptoms
and it is best to prepare for the hayfever season well in advance.
- Chamomile taken every day as a tea, can help reduce allergic reactions.
It also makes a very soothing eye wash for inflamed and sore eyes.
- Elderflowers can be used in the same way as Chamomile
to reduce allergic responses. It also helps reduce catarrh production.
- Nettle Leaf is a natural anti histamine and can reduce sensitivity to pollens.
- Plantain helps to tone the mucous membranes in the nasal passages,
which can be important if you suffer from blocked or stuffy nose.
- Thyme is a great herb to reduce catarrh in the nose and throat, or
gargle with Sage tea if the throat is tickly.
- Garlic helps boost the immune system and this can be helpful if taken 1 or 2 months before the hayfever season,
and during it too.
If these self help remedies don't solve your hayfever problem
- see a qualified herbalist. They will be able to prepare a mix of herbs that are most suited
to your own needs and they have access to other, more potent herbs.
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