20 Alternative Remedies for Hay Fever

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic response to pollen, affecting the mucous membranes of the air passages, eyes, and nose. Symptoms typically include watery discharge from the eyes and nose, itchy eyes and/or throat, sneezing, and general irritability.

There are typically three distinct hay fever seasons. Tree pollen usually appears first, generally between February and May, depending on your local climate. This is followed by a period in late spring and summer when both tree and grass pollen are prevalent. Finally, ragweed pollen season arrives in the fall. Hay fever symptoms can occur during any or all of these times.

While antihistamines are the most conventional treatment for hay fever, they can often lead to undesirable side effects such as drowsiness, depression, and more. For those seeking relief without these drawbacks, natural methods offer a promising alternative..

The safest and most effective way to manage allergies naturally is by minimizing exposure to allergens, boosting immune function, and actively preventing or reducing symptoms.

Ways to Avoid Allergens:

Taking proactive steps to avoid pollen can significantly reduce your hay fever symptoms.

1. Limit Outdoor Time: Pollen levels are typically highest between 5:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Try to minimize time spent outdoors during these hours.
2. Manage Pet Pollen: Pets can easily pick up pollen on their fur and bring it indoors. Consider keeping pets either consistently inside or outside during peak pollen seasons.
3. Shower and Change Clothes: After spending time outdoors, especially on windy days, pollen can cling to your clothes and hair. Showering and changing your clothes promptly will help remove these particles and prevent them from spreading indoors. Washing your hair is particularly important to prevent pollen from irritating your eyes.
4. Use a Clothes Dryer: Line-drying laundry outdoors can turn your clothes into pollen magnets. Always use a clothes dryer during hay fever season to avoid bringing allergens inside.
5. Keep Windows Closed: To prevent pollen from entering your home and car, keep windows closed. Running an air conditioner continuously can help filter the air and keep pollen out. Remember to regularly clean your air conditioner filters.
   • Tip: If you prefer fresh air, consider installing special window filters designed to trap allergens before they blow inside and settle into carpets, furniture, and linens. Check your local hardware store for these.
6. Wear Sunglasses: Wearing sunglasses can create a physical barrier, keeping pollen and other allergens out of your eyes, thereby preventing itchiness, redness, and watery eyes.
7. Rinse Nasal Passages: Before bedtime, use a saline nasal spray to rinse pollen out of your nasal passages. This can significantly reduce overnight discomfort.

Steps to Normalize Immune Function

Allergic reactions can weaken your body’s immune system. Many nutritional consultants recommend supporting it with daily supplements.

8. Quercetin: This bioflavonoid and powerful antioxidant possesses natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. It can offer rapid relief by preventing the body from releasing histamines, effectively suppressing hay fever and cold symptoms. Take 400 milligrams twice daily before meals.
9. Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene): Vitamin A protects mucous membranes and reduces susceptibility to infection. In the form of beta-carotene, take 25,000 to 75,000 IU daily for one month, then reduce to 10,000 to 25,000 IU per day.
10. Vitamin B Complex: All B vitamins are essential for proper immune system functioning. Take as directed on the product label.
11. Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids: This powerful immune system stimulant helps detoxify foreign substances entering the body. Take 3,000 to 10,000 milligrams three times daily.
12. Vitamin E: Known to boost the immune system. Take 400 to 800 IU daily.
13. Zinc: Crucial for immune function. For better absorption, use zinc gluconate lozenges. Take 50 to 80 milligrams daily.
14. Kelp: A rich source of minerals. Take as directed on the label twice daily.

Prevention: Herbal Remedies

The following herbal remedies may help prevent or lessen the severity of hay fever symptoms.

15. Watercress: Said to be an anti-allergen. Incorporate it into salads, sandwiches, and sauces. It’s potent, so consume in small portions.
16. Peppermint or Spearmint: The menthol in these herbs helps to relax and open air passages. Add a few drops of essential oil to a pot of hot steaming water and inhale the scented steam.
17. Eyebright: This herb is highly recommended for treating watery, red eyes associated with allergies and colds. It is known for its astringent, antihistamine, and antiviral properties. Take 3 to 5 drops of a tincture orally three times a day for relief.
18. Stinging Nettle: This plant extract is an excellent natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory. It provides relief not only for itchy, irritated eyes but also for scratchy throats. It’s also rich in iron and trace minerals. Take a 435-milligram capsule every 2 to 4 hours as needed.
19. Feverfew: Contains the ingredient parthenolide, which helps reduce swelling in the sinuses. Look for a product standardized to contain at least 0.7% parthenolide. Take 500 milligrams two or three times daily.
20. Horehound, Mullein Leaf, and Wild Cherry Bark: These herbs may help to ward off severe allergic reactions.

Important Caution: Plant remedies should not be used by individuals who are allergic to that specific plant. Anyone who experiences heart palpitations or a skin rash from a medicinal plant should discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

The Author:

Age Old Herbs

Photo. Gemini