Hayfever can be debilitating, especially when the weather warms up. Learn how to combat it this summer with our five expert tips
Words Margo Marrone
Hayfever can strike at any time, so don’t let itchy eyes, sneezing and a runny nose stop you from enjoying those warm summer days.
The seasonal allergic condition is caused by pollen particles or allergens in the air. This triggers your immune system to react as it fights the irritation. As a result of pesky pollen coming into contact with your eyes, nose and throat, your body releases the chemical Histamine. This then prompts those all to familiar hayfever symptoms.
Keep your hayfever at bay with these easy tips from The Organic Pharmacy’s co-founder, Margo Marrone.
Act before the symptoms start
Avoid hayfever’s annoying symptoms and strike before pollen comes into contact with your immune system. Infused with ingredients rich in anti-inflammatory anti-histamines, add 10-15 drops of The Organic Pharmacy’s Sneeze Away Tincture into water to prevent sneezy reactions in the summer months.
Know what food to avoid
Various foods will make you more prone to suffering with hayfever related symptoms. Stay clear of food that has been sprayed with pesticides or preservatives. Some foods are naturally high in Histamines (alcohol, pickled food), which can trigger a reaction. Reducing inflammatory foods such as sugar and refined grains can also help prevent hayfever symptoms.
Eat right
Just like high histaminic foods, there are foods that have naturally antihistaminic properties. Stock up on yoghurt, fresh fruit, garlic, onions, turmeric, ginger, brown rice and whole grains. Foods that protect mucus membranes, known as bioflavonoids, are also key in reducing symptoms. These include blueberries, blackberries, strawberries and kiwi fruit.
Homeopathic remedies
As an effective and gentle form of medicine, Homeopathic remedies such as The Organic Pharamcy’s Sabadilla, Euphrasia, Allium Cepa, Nat Mur, Arsen Alb help treat common hayfever symptoms (watery eyes, sneezing and runny nose – also known as Nat Mur) safely and without any side effects.
Take the right supplements
Marrone recommends using The Organic Pharmacy Quercetin & Vitamin C Complex Capsules to help reduce allergic and inflammatory reactions. Quercetin is an antioxidant and a natural antihistamine. It strengthens the walls of the cells that release histamine into the bloodstream, protecting your immune system from future allergic reactions.
Quercetin & Vitamin C Complex Capsules £22 & Sneeze Away Tincture £11.50