Hayfever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by an allergic reaction to airborne pollen, typically from grasses, trees, and weeds, which triggers inflammation in the nasal passages, throat, and eyes.

Hayfever can cause a range of symptoms, including sneezing, runny or blocked nose, itchy or watery eyes, sore throat, and coughing, which can be severe and debilitating for some individuals.

It is often treated with over-the-counter antihistamines such as fexofenadine, loratadine and cetirizine hydrochloride.

Hayfever symptoms can be especially troublesome at night, leading to disrupted sleep and reduced quality of life. Fortunately, herbs and herbal medicine have been used for centuries as a natural remedy for hayfever, helping to alleviate symptoms and provide relief without the side effects often associated with conventional medications.

Let's explore some of the ways in which herbs can help those suffering from severe hayfever symptoms, including sore throat, and discuss remedies and prevention strategies.

Herbs for Hayfever Relief

Echinacea: Echinacea is a popular herb known for its immune-boosting properties. It can help strengthen the immune system and reduce the severity of hayfever symptoms. Echinacea can be taken as a tincture, tea, or in supplement form.

Elderflower: Elderflower has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and throat, which can be beneficial for sore throat caused by hayfever. Elderflower can be consumed as a tincture or in capsules.

Nettle: Nettle is a natural antihistamine that can help reduce allergic reactions and relieve hayfever symptoms. It can be consumed as a tea or tincture.

Chamomile: Chamomile has soothing properties that can help relieve sore throat caused by hayfever. It can be consumed as a tincture or tea.

Eyebright: Eyebright is an herb traditionally used for eye-related conditions, including hayfever. It can help relieve itchy and watery eyes, which are common symptoms of hayfever. Eyebright can be taken as a tincture or tea. Eyebright is also often used in topical creams such as our Napiers Eyebright Cream - which also contains chickweed to help soothe itching around the eye area.

Herbal Remedies for Hayfever at Night

Hayfever symptoms can be particularly troublesome at night, leading to discomfort and sleep disturbances. Fortunately, there are herbal remedies that can help alleviate symptoms and improve sleep quality.

Peppermint: Peppermint has decongestant properties that can help clear nasal passages and relieve breathing difficulties caused by hayfever. It can be consumed as a tea or used as an inhalation.

Lemon balm: Lemon balm has calming properties that can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. It can be consumed as a tea or tincture.

Lavender: Lavender is known for its soothing properties and can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. It can be used as an essential oil in a diffuser or added to a warm bath before bedtime.

We recommend our Napiers Sinus Rub, an old heritage blend to help soothe sinuses when used in sinus massage. This rub also contains lavender and eucalyptus to help soothe and aid in decongesting. 

Prevention Strategies with Herbal Medicine

In addition to using herbs for symptom relief, lifestyle changes can also be used as a preventive measure to reduce the frequency and severity of hayfever symptoms.

Quercetin: Quercetin is a natural compound found in many fruits and vegetables, and it has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce allergic reactions

Watch the pollen count: Avoid outdoor activities during peak pollen times, typically in the morning and evening when pollen levels are higher.

Minimise exposure: Keep windows and doors closed during pollen season to minimise pollen exposure indoors.

Air Purifier: Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter in your home to reduce airborne pollen particles.

Wash away the day: Wash your face, hands, and hair after spending time outdoors to remove pollen from your body.

Sunglasses: Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen and reduce eye irritation.

Hayfever can be troublesome. However, by preventing your exposure to pollen as much as possible and utilising herbal remedies, you can manage your symptoms and not let it hold you back.

Recommended for getting started:

 

Napiers Summertime Capsules		Napiers Echinacea & Elderberry Syrup		Napiers Sinus Support Blend