Five Holistic Hayfever Helpers.
Allergic Rhinitis, commonly known as Hayfever, is apparently on the rise.
Repeated may have cleaned the air and got us all outside, but for the unfortunate sufferers of seasonal allergic rhinitis, these things have contributed to enhanced symptoms. Many are even reporting symptoms when they’ve never before experienced them, myself included.
Like with any ongoing or seasonal health issue, it is beneficial to take a holistic approach - meaning that we look at treating and nourishing the whole body, rather than just the symptoms. Here are a few of my favourites to help you with hayfever…
Bone broth - sounds slightly unsavoury, but it’s essentially a stock made from the leftover bones of a roast chicken, or whatever meat you have roasted on the bone. It doesn’t directly treat hayfever, rather it supports gut healing, which although not obviously connected to your hayfever symptoms might be contributing to the body’s immune over-response to the allergen. In short: by looking after your gut, you look after the rest. Bone broth doesn’t necessarily have to be drunk, you can add it to soups, stews, and dhals. You also don’t need to make it (although it’s very easy using a slow cooker) as there are now a number of places you can purchase this magic elixir. If you’re still thinking “eurgh, no thanks!” I must admit that my initial reaction was the same, but it really isn’t all that scary, and anything that heals your whole body can’t hurt, right? For a simple recipe to make your own, click here.
Sesame Oil - is prized in Ayurvedic medicine for its therapeutic value; including its ability to balance the dryness of Vata Dosha, nourish the body (it contains vitamins A,B and E, as well as a number of minerals), combat symptoms of dryness (including irritating coughs) and its anti-inflammatory effects. Use daily to moisturise the skin, lubricate the nostrils or internally to moisten dry membranes and loosen hard stools.
Nasal Irrigation - can help to flush any residual pollen and soothe irritated membranes. All you need is a clean jug or neti pot, sea salt and water. I had read about this practice many times over the years and until this week had not tried it, but I’m happy to report that not only is it much less faff than it sounds, but it really does help. There is a useful ‘how to’ and host of related advice here.
Herbal teas - can really help to combat symptoms, especially if you include herbs such as nettle (anti-histamine), Elderflower (anti-allergy and anti-inflammatory), and chamomile (anti-inflammatory). Take 2-3tsp of dried herb per cup and steep in not quite boiling water for 3-5 minutes, taking care to cover the cup if using herbs such as chamomile which have active volatile oils as they will be lost in the steam. You can mix almost any herbs to form your own tea blend so get creative!
Aromatherapy - can be used to both counteract symptoms and uplift your environment. Choose essential oils with Analgesic, Astringent, Decongestant, Expectorant, properties, such as Eucalyptus, Roman Chamomile, Peppermint or Lavender at varying proportions to create a balance that you like. Use in a diffuser or on a tissue that you can sniff throughout the day.
However you are fighting your symptoms, I hope you are well. If you are finding your energy levels or digestion are flagging now that restrictions are easing and we are close to another seasonal change, I have just the thing for you —> click here.