How To Treat Hay Fever

Hay fever also known as allergic rhinitis is common among people who have allergies to airborne substances such as dust, pollen, fungi and pet dander. Hay fever is very similar to the common cold though the cold is caused by a virus and manifests the same symptoms such as runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, watery eyes, cough, stuffy nose, headaches and blocked sinuses.

People usually suffer from hay fever at the time of change of season. Generally the spring season has many people running around with itchy eyes and runny noses because this is time when the air is full of all kinds of pollen. When the immune system comes into contact with these airborne substances, it mistakenly considers them to be dangerous and releases certain chemicals that cause the symptoms. Children and young adults suffer the most from these allergies and as they grow older the allergic reactions fade away.

Best Ways To Treat Hay Fever

Avoid Alcohol

Alcoholic drinks like beer, wine, champagne and other spirits contain certain chemicals which set off allergy symptoms. Staying away from these drinks will help you control your symptoms and even quickly get rid of them. Drink plenty of water and fresh fruit juices instead.

These will keep the body well hydrated and the flavonoids and antioxidants found in fruit juices will also strengthen the immune system and prevent it from over reacting to harmless substances.

Onions

Onions are full of powerful healing and curative powers. Instead of taking commercial antihistamines it is always a good idea to take it naturally from food.

Onions contains high amounts of quercetin which is a natural antihistamine and which inhibits the release of the chemicals which give rise to the distressing symptoms. Just remove the thin skin of the onion without attempting to remove the outer layers of it and eat it raw with salads.

Spicy Food

Strong peppers and spices provide natural relief from the symptoms of hay fever. Spices have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which fortify the immune system and enhance its function considerably. Hot peppers make your eyes and nose run and when this happens, all the pollen and other allergy causing substances are flushed out of the nasal passages.

Ginger

Hay fever affects the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, eyes and sinuses. They become irritated and inflamed and start producing excessive mucus. Ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which reduce the swelling and soothe the irritated mucous membranes.

It also relieves nasal and sinus congestion and brins relief in the sore and scratchy throat. Boil half a liter of water and add two tablespoons of grated ginger to it. Simmer on a low heat for three minutes then turn off the heat. Strain one cup of the tea and drink it. Drink a cup every few hours till you have finished all the tea.

Green Tea

Green tea has marvelous antioxidant properties which scavenge all the harmful free radicals and expel them from the body. It also strengthens the immune system and blocks the production of histamines. Drink three to four cups of green tea daily.