Easing Hay Fever

hay fever
Hay Fever

Hay fever is caused by an allergic reaction to tiny, airborne particles of pollens and grains.

Pollen is released from flowers, grasses and trees, and fills the air, particularly on warm, dry days.

When it comes into contact with the eyes, nose and lungs of hay fever sufferers, pollen triggers the immune system to produce massive amounts of the chemical histamine.

This results in the hypersensitive reaction of streaming eyes, sore throat and runny nose. In severe cases, symptoms similar to asthma occur.

This results in the hypersensitive reaction of streaming eyes, sore throat and runny nose. In severe cases, symptoms similar to asthma occur.

Treating hay fever symptoms herbal remedies can minimise attacks of this season allergy and are effective in different ways. Echinacea and nettles balance and strengthen the immune system. Herbs such as elder have an astringent action, helping to dry up secretions, while chamomile and plantain contain natural antihistamines that reduce  symptoms

Grass pollen is the most common allergen, which affects sufferers at the specific times of the year when grass pollen is released. However, some people become allergic to tree or weed and shrub pollens, and will therefore, be affected at different times of the year (February–June for trees; June to September for weeds; peak time September and October for moulds, although present most of the year). The patient who is allergic to tree, grass and weed pollens may suffer a very prolonged ‘hay fever’ season.

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