Hayfever - the season to be allergic

Friday 2nd January 1970 7:30am

“Tis the season to be ...allergic!!” Unfortunately the season is upon us that many of us who suffer from allergies and hayfever tend to loathe - spring!

Sometimes referred to as allergic rhinitis, Hayfever is caused when the bodies defence system over-reacts to pollen released into the atmosphere by plants. The pollen causes a release of histamine from the cells into the skin and it is the histamine that affects the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and airway passages.

Symptoms include:

Itchy eyes
Watery discharge from the nose and eyes
Sneezing
Nervous irritability

Symptoms of Hayfever often mimic those of the common cold and flu, though a distinguishing factor are that allergies cause a clear, thin nasal discharge as opposed to the thick yellow/green discharge caused by the flu as the illness progresses.

Sufferers of Hayfever may also experience fatigue, irritability, as well as moodiness and sleep disturbance in addition to the common symptoms.

During this season, there are many beneficial vitamin and herbs to help ease the symptoms of Hayfever and strengthen the bodies ailing defences.

Horseradish - a natural antibiotic which primarily works on the respiratory system. It assists with clearing nasal passages and is used wherever catarrh or sinus problems exist.
Garlic - Nature's wonder herb, also a natural antibiotic which has been shown to be effective against bacteria and stimulates the lymphatic system in throwing off waste materials. Garlic is a good, general health promoting herb.
Fenugreek - helps to soften and dissolve hardened accumulations of mucous within the lungs and bronchial system and is soothing to inflamed mucous membranes.
Vitamin C - a potent immune system stimulant and natural anti-inflammatory. It is commonly used for symptoms of cold and flu.
Vitamin A / Beta-carotene - additionally enhances the immune system and is essential for the repair and maintenance of the skin and mucous membranes.

This information is not intended as a substitute for qualified medical advice. Please consult a properly qualified health care practitioner.