Irish Herbalist David Foley shares top tips for managing hay fever this summer and beyond.
Those of us with hay fever sense spring’s arrival with trepidation, we yearn for the colour to come back into the garden, but know the increased pollen will mean the return of hay fever symptoms too.
Hay fever is a type of allergic rhinitis caused by pollen or spores which affects the nose, sinuses throat and eyes causing a runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes. It is more prevalent during the spring and summer months when there is more pollen in the air. However, people with hay fever can experience their symptoms at various times during the year depending on which pollens or spores they are allergic to.
Avoiding the trigger substance is usually the best way to control most allergies however, it is exceptionally difficult to avoid pollen, particularly during the summer months. Here are some tips to help you manage hay fever naturally:
> Try to avoid grassy areas particularly early in the morning and late at night when the pollen count is at its highest.
> Cut the grass regularly before the grass flowers.
> Wear wraparound sunglasses when you are outside as this will help stop pollen from getting into your eyes.
> By keeping windows and doors shut in the house and the car you will restrict the amount of pollen you are exposed to.
> Avoid hanging washing, especially bedsheets outside as the pollen will gather in the fabric. Shower before bed to remove pollen from skin and hair.
> Keep pets outdoors during the hay fever season. If they do come inside, make sure you wash them regularly to remove any pollen from their fur.
> Regularly vacuum and damp dust to stop pollen from being spread around.
> Eat a healthy diet with high amounts of fresh antioxidant - rich fruit and vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, red onions, greens, berries, apples, ginger, turmeric, spices and garlic all high in antioxidants and natural anti-histamine compounds such as quercetin, which help alleviate these histamine release symptoms such as red, itchy, streaming and irritated eyes.
Irish Botanica All Seasons Complex is a botanical blend of natural ingredients including astragalus, angelica and peppermint. It is formulated for all seasons and particularly useful coming into the summer months when the pollen count increases. It is suitable from age 16. Take a 5ml serving 2-3 times daily mixed in water or fruit juice (after food).
Irish Botanica is an Irish brand with a range of pure, high-strength herbal products. Irish Botanica work with ethically-sourced raw ingredients of the highest quality; products are minimally processed so you can experience their natural goodness as nature intended and tested vigorously to ensure the final product is as wonderful as the plants and herbs they begin with. Find Irish Botanica All Seasons Complex in Health Stores and Pharmacies.