Herbal Remedies for Hay Fever

Your doctor will call it allergic rhinitis but you'll probably just call it hay fever. Whether you suffer from seasonal allergies or the year-round version doctors call perennial allergic rhinitis you know how miserable the itchy dry throat, stuffy nose and swollen eyes can be. And whether you have plain old allergic rhinitis or you also have asthma adding to your discomfort, there are natural herbal remedies you can discuss with your doctor.

Hay Fever Basics

Hay fever is an over-reaction of your body's immune system to things like mold, pollen and pet dander. To most people, these substances are perfectly harmless but to an allergy sufferer these cause your body to release chemicals known as histamines. It's these histamines, along with other chemicals, that cause the symptoms of hay fever.

If you have seasonal allergies--allergies that come and go or appear only at specific times of the year--you may find that the main culprits in your allergy attacks are pollens or leave mold. But you may also have year-round rhinitis caused by pollutants like dust mites, pet dander and mold growing inside your home.

Are Herbal Remedies For Hay Fever Effective?

Experts agree that the best way to deal with allergic rhinitis is to avoid exposure to the allergens that cause your symptoms. For hay fever, your doctor may recommend that you stay indoors at certain times of the day and use your air conditioner instead of opening your windows. He may also advise you to machine-dry your clothes instead of hanging them outside. Finally, he may also suggest that you shower and change clothes after work to remove any irritants brought in on your hair and clothing.

If you suffer from year-round allergies you may find relief by keeping your pets outside, using an air purifier and allergy-removing vacuum cleaner, covering your pillows and mattresses with specially-designed covers and removing dust-catching furnishings like stuffed animals and voluminous draperies.

But when prevention isn't enough, you may also find temporary relief in one of the herbal hay fever remedies found in your local pharmacy or health food store.

Bromelain