Natural Ways to Treat Hay Fever Symptoms

The first signs of spring in the air herald a welcome relief from winter weather, but not everyone enjoys the seasonal transition. Those who suffer from hay fever can expect miserable symptoms as the seasonal allergy strikes, triggered by pollens in the air. Help is at hand in the form of medications but not everyone reacts well to shots, over the counter anti-histamines or other conventional medicines which can result in drowsiness and headaches. Instead there are natural ways to treat hay fever symptoms which can offer relief.

Typical hay fever symptoms include red, itchy dry eyes; coughs; sneezing; a blocked or runny nose; a sore throat. The natural pollen in the air creates the histamines which result in these symptoms, and one of the best known and effective natural remedies is to fight the histamines with the pollen in locally sourced honey. It is recommended to take a tablespoon of local honey daily, beginning at least a month prior to the advent of hay fever symptoms. This allows time for the honey to work as a natural barrier to the pollen and build up immunity in the body.

Eating a healthy diet will also boost the immune system and help to fight off the symptoms of hay fever. Include 1000 mg of vitamin C in the daily diet, as it is a natural ant-histamine. This can be taken in supplement form but is best derived by eating citrus fruit, including the pith and pulp. Begin the day with a glass of warm water and freshly squeezed lemon. Drinking honey and lemon juice will help to alleviate the symptoms of a sore throat. Herbal teas are also recommended, particularly dandelion tea and chamomile tea.

Chamomile can also help to soothe itchy eyes. An eye compress can be made from chamomile tea, or alternatively use a chamomile tea bag. Using a dehumidifier in the home can also help to reduce the pollen levels which can so aggravate the eyes.

Herbal steam baths help to clear the congestion which comes with hay fever. Add either chamomile flowers or a drop of eucalyptus oil to a pan of steaming water, and breathe in the steam from under a towel until the water has cooled. Spicy foods and garlic also helps to clear the sinuses. A bowl of delicious Thai Tom Yum soup can be very effective.

Spring need not be quite so unpleasant for hay fever sufferers if relief can be afforded by these natural remedies. Don't wait until the first pollens attack, but begin to incorporate these natural treatments in advance of the first symptoms, so they have a more immediate effect. The body is more likely to build up more natural immunity if it is already prepared with local honey and vitamin C to ward off the symptoms.