Written by Anjali Chudasama PHOTOGRAPHS BY UNSPLASH
You know it’s spring when the flowers are in bloom and temperatures are climbing. But spare a thought for people who struggle with hay fever. The season usually kicks off in late March and gets worse from April to August, when the pollen count is high and brings a world of discomfort for allergy sufferers.
While there’s plenty of overthe-counter medication available, a more natural solution may be more effective in relieving your symptoms. In fact, you’re likely to have many of the following remedies in your kitchen cupboard already.
Give these natural ingredients a try and see if they help fight your allergies this spring:
Vitamin C
Vitamin C has great medicinal benefits. Not only is Vit C a natural antihistamine, it also acts as a natural decongestant. By ensuring you get your daily dose, this could be the perfect cure for a blocked or runny nose. Fruits and vegetables are the best sources of Vitamin C: Tomatoes, ginger, citrus fruits, peppers, kiwifruit and green leafy vegetables like Brussels sprouts are all loaded with Vitamin C goodness, so plate up.
Honey Honey contains pollen grains that are actually really good for you. Once honey works its way into your system, over time it can help your body fight off those pesky allergic reactions. Organic honey has a positive healing effect as it’s made from foliage which can be found all around you. Garlic Garlic contains a compound called Allicin, which provides potent medicinal properties. Introducing it to your daily diet will not only boost your immune system, but may also relieve symptoms of the common cold. The key reason why garlic is so helpful for hay fever is because it contains quercetin – an antihistamine that provides allergy relief and better longevity. For those who don’t like the taste of garlic, quercetin can also be found in apples and onions.
Chamomile tea Chamomile is a herb that comes from the Asteraceae plant family. It has strong antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, known for their healing powers. While chamomile is a well-known hot beverage, cold tea bags can also be applied as a compress for swollen, red and itchy eyes – just 10 minutes can help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Praised for centuries for its many health benefits, chamomile can be used for skin care, sleep regulation, menstrual symptoms and as a boost for the immune system.
Nettle tea Stinging nettle is found in Europe, Asia and North Africa. The leaves are a protein-dense equivalent to spinach and can be quite strong when infused in tea form. Nettle tea has a fast effect on the body, mainly due to the vitamins, minerals and flavonoids found in nettle leaves. Ironically, before the plant is soaked down to a neutral state, it causes extreme allergic reactions. However, the organic properties found in nettles also work as a antihistamine when consumed as a drink. Brew up a pot of nettle tea and you’ll be able to combat respiratory tract inflammation and ease nasal congestion – symptoms that often come with allergic rhinitis. The chemicals found in this plant also help strengthen bones, improve kidney health and protect the heart.
Peppermint tea You’ll find peppermint tea offers a refreshing taste from the first sip to the last drop, leaving your breath with a minty aftertaste. However, aside from giving the mouth a fresh feel, peppermint leaves also act as a strong relief for hay fever symptoms. Peppermint tea alleviates nasal, chest and sinus congestion as it contains menthol properties which work to release nasal blockage and pressure. The potent essence can also break up phlegm in your throat. Similar to Ginger tea, it helps with digestion and cures an upset stomach. But this tea in particular has more than just physical health benefits. Peppermint is thought to uplift your mood and relieve stress. This menthol herb is known to be a muscle relaxant, and can therefore help you feel more relaxed and (hopefully) less anxious.
THE BENEFITS OF HERBAL TEA FOR ALLERGIES You may be surprised to find a nice herbal cuppa is just the thing for allergies. Not only do water-steeped herbs keep you hydrated, they also offer powerful health benefits and vital antioxidants. Below are some of the best allrounder teas to clear up your sniffle this spring: