Herbal Hay Fever relief

Ruth Theobold Medical Herbalist BSc (Hons), dip HM, MIMH

Hay fever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, affects many people each year as pollen levels rise during spring. Common symptoms include sneezing, watery, itchy red eyes, sinus congestion, excessive mucous, and headaches. These symptoms can affect sleep quality and can prevent sufferers from enjoying outdoor activities such as picnics, and walks in the country side.

Common hay fever triggers are tree pollen (early spring), grass pollen (late spring and summer), ragweed pollen (autumn), also dust mites, pet dander, and environmental moulds can create similar allergic reactions.

What happens? Our immune system reacts to these airborne allergens as though they were harmful. Our bodies create excess histamine which prepares the body to fight infection, it boosts blood flow and supports white blood cells to move to affected areas (creating inflammation) and creates more mucous to trap harmful bacteria. Histamine also causes itching which causes further inflammation when scratched!

For those who want a natural approach your medical herbalist has a treasure trove of herbs that can help deal with allergic symptoms but here are a few simple remedies to try at home that can help alleviate symptoms.

Prevention is the best cure!  Taking remedies daily for a month or more before hay fever season gives best results. Reishi (ganoderma aplanatum) is helpful in reducing or preventing the allergic response (not for those on blood thinners). Other immune balancers can be helpful too such as Echinacea (purpurea and angustifolia) and Astragalus (astragalus membranaceus).

If you already have symptoms in full swing then all is not lost! Lots of herbs have antihistamine action and can help relieve the symptoms of inflammation, itchiness and excess mucous. Nettle, Eye bright and Plantain contain natural anti histamine and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Elderflower and Plantain ease sinus congestion and excess mucus as well.

Chamomile (Matricaria Chamomilla) may help soothe irritated airways and promote relaxation during allergy flare-ups.

All herbs can be taken daily taken as a tea, tincture or capsule during peak pollen months.

Recipie for a Hayfever tea

Nettle (Urtica Diocia).                                20g

Peppermint (Mentha Pipperitum)              10g

Eyebright (Euphrasia Officinalis)                10g

Chamomile (Matricaria Chamomilla)          20g

Plantain (Plantago Lanceolata)                    20g

Goldenrod (Solidago Vigurea/ Candensis)  20g

                                                                       = 100g tea

Measure out each dried herb into a clean dry bowl, stir until each herb is blended into one mix. Store in a sealed jar. Infused 1 teaspoon in hot water and take three times a day, as needed.

If you have severe symptoms seek your GP’s help and if you are struggling to breathe, seek out emergency services immediately!