Hay fever symptoms can be debilitating, but there are some herbal remedies that can help to keep them in check.
Medical herbalist Gabriella Clarke shares her recommendations for coping with Hay Fever.
Allergies are a common problem and are the result of hypersensitivity of the immune system to certain environmental factors. Allergic conditions include food allergies, allergic asthma, hay fever, atopic dermatitis and in extreme cases anaphylaxis.
Common symptoms include itchy eyes, runny nose, rashes, sneezing, cough, swelling of the mouth and throat, shortness of breath and wheezing. In general medicine, allergies – regardless of cause – are commonly treated with antihistamines and steroids. Likewise in herbal medicine, allergies are treated with the same herbs regardless of the causative factor.
Here are some of Mother Nature’s wonderful herbs to help us to combat these uncomfortable and frustrating symptoms.
STINGING NETTLE (Urtica dioica)
The common nettle is considered by medical herbalists to be the top choice for treating allergies. It contains natural antihistamines that dampen the immune response and therefore ease allergy symptoms, while its anti-inflammatory effects help to relief nasal congestion. A trial carried out in Florida USA showed that nettle contains constituents that affect the enzymes and receptors associated with the allergic response.
PLANTAIN (plantago lanceolata)
Plantain works really well when combined with nettle. It has a toning effect on the mucous membranes and is especially good at reducing excessive mucous production. It contains a constituent known as baicalein, which has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy actions.
BAICAL SKULLCAP (Scutellaria baicalensis)
Perhaps not a herb we are so familiar with in the West, skullcap is one of the 50 key herbs in Chinese Herbal Medicine. Like plantain it also contains baicalein. Research conducted in China demonstrates the anti-allergic effects of this herb by reducing the bodies production of immunoglobulin E. Recent research has explored its role in preventing food allergies.
ELDERFLOWER (Sambuccus nigra)
Traditionally used to treat fevers and influenza, elderflower also has a role to play in treating hay fever. It has a soothing effect on the mucous membranes and its astringent qualities help to dry up a runny nose and eyes. It is best combined with nettles and drunk as a tea throughout the hay fever season.
TURMERIC (Curcuma longa)
In most cases of allergy, inflammation is nearly always present, especially in the case of asthma and dermatitis. Turmeric contains a constituent known as curcumin, which exhibits strong anti-inflammatory effects. Turmeric makes a wonderful ingredient in many dishes and allergy sufferers should try to include this fantastic spice in their daily diets as often as they can. For those who don’t enjoy its flavour, capsules are readily available.
PINE BARK EXTRACT ( Pycnogenol)
This potent antioxidant can be great for preventing hay fever and other allergies. You need to start taking it several weeks before the allergy season for best effects. It is particularly effective for birch pollen allergy.
CAMOMILE (Matricaria recutita)
This common, gentle herb has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties. Camomile is so widely available and makes a soothing and refreshing tea. For sore and irritated eyes, try applying cold wet chamomile tea bags to the eyes for ten minutes. It is wonderful for combating itching, soreness and puffiness.
PROBIOTICS
70% of your immune system is located in the gut so it’s important that it is colonised with good bacteria, which have great health benefits. A high sugar diet and taking antibiotics can leave us open to unhealthy gut flora, which can quickly compromise our immune systems. There are a variety of good quality probiotics on the market. It is also important to eat foods, which promote good gut flora such as cruciferous vegetables, onions and garlic. Fermented foods such as sauerkraut are especially beneficial. In herbal medicine, artichoke is particularly indicated.
