According to’Climate and Health Observatory, pollen allergy affects around 40% of the European population. Pollen thus ranks at the top of the most frequently incriminated allergens. Even at low doses, these plants with various seeds can cause a disproportionate immune reaction causing respiratory and ocular symptoms. We are talking about pollinosis. To relieve symptoms that are often unpleasant to experience, here are some tips and natural solutions to try…
1. Essential oils to cleanse and unclog
Many natural essences have recognized antihistamine properties that are particularly effective in the context of allergic rhinitis. Among the oils most recommended by aromatherapists, we find chamomile, lavender, eucalyptus and even matricaria oils. But the list of oils likely to be used in this specific context is much longer and their selection will essentially depend on the predominant symptoms in the person concerned. Thus, oral administration of German chamomile oil will be preferred in cases of excessive tearing, while red myrtle oil, for example, may be recommended in cases of severe runny nose and/or sneezing. untimely (hay fever). Black spruce essential oil, for its part, will be used to soothe dry coughs. Essential oils can also be diffused into the ambient air using a diffuser. Laurel, tarragon, lavender… These essences cleanse and purify interiors.
2. Phytotherapy, an exceptional mine of resources
While some plants trigger allergic reactions, others treat them. This is the case, in particular, of the lanceolate plantain which is a reference in terms of pollen allergies. This very common herbaceous plant has unsuspected therapeutic properties for newbies. Consumed in the form of juice or syrup, it helps fight allergic symptoms such as cough, sinusitis, itching or even rhinorrhea. Alone or combined with plantain, nettle is also an interesting plant when you suffer from seasonal allergies. Fortifying and revitalizing, the one that we consider – wrongly – as a weed has a very appreciable antihistamine action in the event of an allergic attack. It is generally consumed in the form of infusions. For its part, blackcurrant bud is one of the preventive solutions. The tincture or macerate obtained from this part of the blackcurrant contains anti-inflammatory, draining and stimulating powers. It is indicated in cases of damage to the ENT sphere.
3. Water and trace elements, valuable allies
Runny nose, conjunctivitis, excessive tearing, congestion… Most respiratory symptoms can be relieved with… water! An essential element for human life, water has many health benefits. Soaked on a compress, cold water helps, for example, to reduce eyelid swelling or to soothe itchy eyes caused by pollen allergy. When combined with salt, lukewarm water is a perfect mixture to effectively clean congested or blocked nasal cavities. In addition, trace elements can also participate in the prevention of respiratory allergies, or even their treatment.
Manganese, in this respect, stands out as one of the most effective trace elements against pollen allergy, because it inhibits the secretion of histamine, a substance largely involved in the immune reaction. It also helps regulate the immune system during the winter season and prepares the body to face the arrival of pollen. This reference antiallergic can be combined with zinc and selenium, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Copper and cobalt can also be cited among the trace elements available to allergists, for the prevention or therapy of seasonal allergies.
4. Life-changing precautionary measures
In order to limit the risk of pollen allergies, specialists often recommend that their affected patients adopt certain daily measures during pollen peaks:
- close the windows at the end of the day;
- avoid drying your laundry outside;
- wash your hair in the evening before going to sleep;
- do not sleep with the window open;
- avoid mowing the lawn;
- wear sunglasses outdoors;
- find out about pollen alerts from the National Aerobiological Surveillance Network…
Sources
- Pollen, Climate and Health Observatory
- Pollen allergies: what to do to relieve the symptoms?, Institut Pasteur de Lille, April 27, 2022
- Pollen Allergy Risk Map, National Aerobiological Surveillance Network