Over the counter hay fever medications can leave a lot of us feeling drowsy which is never ideal. So why not give these natural remedies a try to combat that dreaded hayfever this summer.
There is no better feeling than emerging from a long grim winter into the longer evenings and milder weather of spring. However, for some of us, there is one major drawback of summer – HAY FEVER. Constant sneezing and weeping, sore eyes are such a nightmare. Exercise only seems to exacerbate it. And medication often leaves you drowsy. It’s a royal pain in the arse.
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But fear not, we have been researching alternative remedies and it seems there are quite a few natural solutions out there to help alleviate hay fever. If you have any more that really work for you do let us know in the comments below.
1. Honey
Honey is said to be a natural remedy for hay fever because the bee pollen in honey can desensitise your body to other pollens. Try to update your honey intake during the summer months and some even suggest taking a teaspoon of honey before you head out for a run or bike ride to desensitise your body to the pollen.
2. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine. Found in oranges, lemons and grapefruit which also contain bioflavonoids, which have powerful anti-allergy effects. The combination of vitamin C and bioflavonoids provides a natural decongestant and antihistamine.
3. Time your exercise
The pollen count is at it’s worst early in the morning and after sunset so try to avoid exercising outside during these times when the pollen count is especially high. Anything above 50 pollen grains/m3 air is considered high. Those eager for the inside scoop should download a pollen forecast app like Hay Fever Relief to keep track of the count five days ahead.
4. Get Spicy
Chilli peppers contain an active component called capsaicin. This opens nasal passages and helps to reduce congestion.
5. Don’t dry your clothes outside
Pop your clothes in the wash as soon as get in from your run or ride. And try to avoid drying it outside as this will transform pollen into your home. A shower before bed, washing your hair will also help in this regard too.
6. Chamomile
Chamomile tea will not only help you sleep better, it is also a powerful antioxidant, antihistamine and contains flavonoids which act as an anti-inflammatory agent. Take it as a cup of tea or alternatively use it wet chamomile tea bags as an eye compress to alleviate irritation.
7. Acupuncture
Is there anything acupuncture can’t cure? Well, we are sure there are a few, but it is the answer to so many health problems. Research has shown that acupuncture can help to reduce a runny nose and itchy eyes, symptoms synonymous with hayfever. It is recommended that sufferers have four to six acupuncture sessions before the hayfever season really kicks in.
8. Cut back on the dairy
Cow’s milk and other dairy products can increase the production of mucus in the respiratory tract and exacerbate hay fever nasal congestion. Good alternatives during hayfever season are rice, almond, quinoa and coconut milks. Just be aware that many of these often contain sugar so be sure to opt for the unsweetened options!
9. Vaseline
Spreading a thin layer of Vaseline inside the lower nostrils can help combat hay fever and reduce symptoms significantly. Believe it or not, the Vaseline actually stops pollen from going up your nostrils.
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