Many of us are eager to see the sunshine appearing through the dark clouds of
winter. It’s a welcome break when the bulbs start to sprout. However, for those who suffer from Hayfever, Spring and Summer are accompanied by the dread of sneezing, itchy and watery eyes and that awful feeling of congestion.
Hayfever is caused by the body’s immune system reacting abnormally to the pollen in grass, certain types of plants and trees. The body produces antibodies to pollen which triggers this tamine release causing the uncomfortable symptoms.
A Medical Herbalist’s approach to Hayfever is to treat the ‘whole’ person with extra focus on the immune system. So, rather than attacking the histamine release alone, the issue of why the body is reacting abnormally is the primary concern. There may be considerations such as diet, family history and other medical conditions – past and present, to take into account. The most successful Hayfever treatment is started early, around this time of year, so the body is prepared in advance of the ‘Hayfever Season.’
Some herbs can be useful in many cases of Hayfever. Both Urtica dioica (Stinging Nettle) and Chamomilla recutita (Chamomile) have
anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties – supporting the immune system and relieving inflammation in the eyes and nose. Euphrasia officinalis (Eyebright) relieves eye inflammation and attacks the liquid mucus which often accompanies Hayfever. Sambucus nigra (Elder) flowers have anti-allergic, anti-catarrhal and anti-inflammatory properties. Plantago lanceolata (Ribwort Plantain) is a wonderful herb for hayfever, it gently supports and restores health to the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract.Other allergies may contribute to the development and symptoms of Hayfever. It’s possible there are unidentified intolerances making the Hayfever worse. It’s often useful to have an allergy test to identify other sensitivities. If those are addressed on many occasions the Hayfever symptoms improve.
