Treating Hayfever the Natural Way
Hayfever, also called allergic rhinitis, usually occurs after being exposed to allergens, such as pollens, dust mites, cockroaches, and dander from pets. Since hayfever is associated with plants, this may be experienced more frequently during certain seasonal times of the year, such as spring.
This kind of allergic reaction usually involves symptoms similar to that of a cold, such as runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing, cough, sinus pressure, and fatigue. Having hayfever can be very uncomfortable, to the point that your performance at work or school is affected. According to a recent study, one-third of adults suffering from hayfever reported that their symptoms had a significant negative impact on their work, home, and social life.
When the nasal passages swell, which happens when you have hayfever, this prevents mucus from draining out of the sinuses, making you more vulnerable to infection such as sinusitis. Sinusitis is a common complication of hayfever, usually characterized by infection of the sinuses, causing throbbing pain and tenderness in areas of the face near the affected sinuses. The pain may become worse when you move your head. You may also experience toothache or pain in your jaw as you eat.
Physiotherapy for Hayfever and Sinus Treatment
Physiotherapy can play an important role in treating people who are suffering from hayfever and sinusitis. This type of therapy can help reduce medication, manage pain, and avoid surgery. Compared with other treatments, physiotherapy is very cost effective and you can self refer.
A physiotherapist practices a holistic approach in treating and managing hayfever and sinusitis by providing manual therapy, chest physiotherapy, acupuncture, and breathing exercises as well as self-management skills. Your physio will work closely with you during treatment through education, awareness, empowerment, and participation.
Hayfever Treatment Using Herbs
There are various ways to treat hayfever naturally, with the use of herbs which are effective at providing allergic relief for those suffering from hayfever. Here are some herbal recipes recommended for hayfever and sinus relief:
Chamomile tea. Chamomile is know to effectively relieve hayfever symptoms. Herbalists advise inhaling on a piece of tissue applied with chamomile and lemon oil to treat hayfever symptoms.
Ginger tea and raw honey. This concoction helps to break up chest congestion and loosen phlegm. This natural antihistamine also works to strengthen the immune system.
Green tea. Green tea prevents the production of histamine, a chemical produced by the body when it detects the presence of allergens. It is also one of the best homemade remedies for boosting the immune system.
Peppermint tea. This tea is best for relieving nasal and sinus congestion. You can drink cold peppermint tea to sooth coughing.
Butterbur. This herb is mainly used to treat headaches and seasonal allergies. Studies show that butterbur is effective for relieving itchy eyes, sneezing, and sinus congestion. However, if you are allergic to ragweed or chrysanthemum, you should avoid butterbur.
With proper guidance from your physio and by taking natural remedies at home, you are on your way to feeling so much better and being free from the discomforts of hayfever and sinusitis!
If you are suffering from hayfever or sinusitis, feel free to call us at 1300 650 510 or visit our centre at 214 – 220 Coward Street, Mascot, New South Wales. Our physios will gladly attend to your specific needs.
