Hayfever - a Medical Herbalist Approach
As Winter turns to Spring, the delight of sunshine and tree blooms conflict with the frustration of itchy eyes, sneezing and runny noses for many of us. The pollen from our gorgeous Spring plants can trigger our immune response as the water-soluble proteins generated by pollen can infiltrate the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, and eyes. This causes pollen to be mistaken for pathogens by your immune system.
Historically, certain pollens were likely dangerous to us, so this immune response would have come in handy. The considerable amount of us who have allergies in the modern world suggest it likely was beneficial enough to stay within the gene pool! In early spring, tree pollen is often to blame, whereas grass pollen causes most damage in late spring and summer, followed by ragweed which attacks during early autumn.
Typically, hayfever is a consequence of an overactive immune system. There are many studies suggesting that we have had an increase in allergies, especially in developed countries. Some theories for this include the hygiene hypothesis, where we are exposed more to an antibacterial world, and less to dirt and microbes from our natural environment. Another is that chemicals in products and pesticides break down our gut-lining, and cause a leaky gut, which amongst other things can cause heightened immune system activity.
Immunoglobulin E producing antibodies appear specifically to stimulate the release of histamine, in an immune response to potential pathogens. Histamine is a substance that irritates your tissues and causes your runny nose. It functions as an inflammatory mediator, which is incredibly important for increasing blood flow to wounds, producing stomach acid and keeping our brain awake. This is why common antihistamines can cause some unwanted side effects, particularly fatigue.
For this reason, I’d like to introduce you to some helpful herbal heroes that I’ve seen work wonders for seasonal allergies.
Nettle is perfect for picking during Spring, as the leaves are young and fresh. It reduces inflammation in the body by reducing the amount of histamine released. Nettle is also an incredibly nutritious and versatile herb, delicious in teas and soups. Stay stocked for the year by freezing your foraged, blanched nettles.
An increase in chemical toxins means we need to support our liver to cleanse the blood of them. This will in turn help our immune system regulate, as it won’t need to be constantly ready for a war on allergens. Dandelion roots provide powerful liver support, and the leaves support the kidneys to flush out excess histamine. Top tip: harvesting dandelion roots in the Spring is when they are most nutritious, as they store their vitamins and minerals safely in the roots over winter, so harvest before you see the flowers if possible!
Quercetin rich herbs, such as ginkgo and chamomile, can help to reduce sinus inflammation and congestion. Chamomile also supports our nervous system which can keep us calm and feel less stressed. This is useful as high cortisol levels impacts our immune system.
Holistic medicine teaches us that prevention is better than cure. Incorporating lifestyle changes throughout the year will help to reduce allergy symptoms when the hayfever season arrives. Eating local honey might improve your allergy symptoms if it contains pollen and is eaten consistently, at minimum honey is soothing for itchy or dry throats. Stocking up on gut-friendly foods during hayfever season will improve the gut, specifically look out for Lactobacillus acidophilus-containing foods. And even snacking on the humble orange will support our immune systems due to vitamin C having gentle antihistamine properties. Drinking herbal teas as mentioned previously on a regular basis can improve our immune response and regulate a hyperactive immune system.
The hygiene hypothesis suggests that we can boost our immune systems by exposing ourselves to soil by foraging and gardening (if your allergies can handle it). To help your immune system out on particularly sniffly days, try to avoid exposure if it is hot and windy, as pollen is spread easier. Closing windows during the day and covering eyes with glasses can also prevent pollen irritation.