Homeopathy

HAY FEVER

Tamar Henryby
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HAY FEVER

Hay fever, medically known as allergic rhinitis, is a common condition that affects many children, often seasonally, but sometimes year-round. It occurs when a child’s immune system overreacts to otherwise harmless substances in the environment, most commonly pollen from trees, grasses, or weeds.

ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE

During spring and summer, pollen levels rise significantly, making symptoms more likely to appear or worsen. In addition, children growing up in urban environments, or areas with high air pollution, may be more prone to developing allergies. Climate change has also played a role in extending pollen seasons and increasing allergen potency, which may contribute to more persistent or intense symptoms.

GENETIC PREDISPOSITION

Hay fever tends to run in families. If one or both parents have a history of allergies, asthma, or eczema, the child has a higher likelihood of developing hay fever — this is part of a broader atopic (allergic) tendency.

IMMUNE SYSTEM OVERREACTION

In hay fever, the immune system mistakenly identifies pollen as a dangerous invader. In response, it releases chemicals such as histamine, which cause the typical symptoms: sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, nasal congestion, and sometimes fatigue or irritability. In some children, hay fever may also worsen asthma or contribute to sleep disturbances due to nasal blockage.

CHOOSING HOMEOPATHY

Below you will find some of the most commonly used homeopathic remedies for hay fever that I personally use for my family, and recommend to others, that can help ease symptoms and bring relief. Each remedy is chosen based on the individual’s unique symptom picture, which is why matching the remedy to the specific way your child experiences hay fever is so, so important.

Unlike conventional medicines, homeopathic remedies do not suppress symptoms — they aim to support the body’s natural healing response, gently restoring balance and reducing sensitivity over time.

TOP HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

ALLIUM CEPA

Indicated for children who suffer with watery eyes and a clear, acrid nasal discharge that may irritate the upper lip, accompanied by sneezing and a tickling cough. Symptoms often worsen indoors and improve in fresh air.

ARSENICUM

Suited for kids experiencing a burning, watery nasal discharge with a stuffy, tickling sensation. Additional signs may include swelling beneath the eyes, a wheezy cough, and feelings of chilliness, restlessness, and fatigue.

EUPHRASIA

Recommended when hay fever primarily affects your child’s eyes, leading to profuse, burning tears and swollen eyelids, along with a bland nasal discharge. Symptoms may intensify in the morning and in windy weather

NATRUM MUR

Used for hay fever with sneezing and a profuse, watery nasal discharge resembling egg white, accompanied by loss of taste and smell, and chapped lips and cracks at the corners of the mouth. 

SABADILLA

Indicated for children with intense sneezing episodes with an itchy nose, copious watery nasal discharge, and red, watery eyes. A sensation of a lump in the throat and sensitivity to odours may also be observed.

For those seeking a combination approach, products like Helios Hay Fever 30c, which I personally use and love, blend remedies such as Allium Cepa, Euphrasia, and Sabadilla to address various hay fever symptoms at the same time.

WYETHIA

An intense, almost unbearable itching sensation on the roof of the mouth and deep behind the nose, often extending to the throat and ears, is a strong indicator for Wyethia. In children, these sensations can be difficult for them to explain, but you might notice constant throat-clearing, rubbing at the nose or ears, or even sudden restlessness or distress during allergy season

The entire head feels dry and inflamed, even though the nose might still be running.

Please note: Approaching hay fever effectively often requires more than just acute remedies, as these may not address the underlying causes or genetic predispositions. Working with a qualified homeopath allows for a comprehensive evaluation of your child’s health history and symptom patterns. This individualised approach aims to strengthen the immune system and significantly reduce sensitivity to allergens over time.

WORKING WITH A HOMEOPATH

  • Homeopathy works beautifully for both acute and chronic condition, but it’s important to understand the difference between the two. While acute remedies can be highly effective in the moment, deeper healing often requires longer-term constitutional treatment.
  • Working with a homeopath provides ongoing support. Review, and adjusting remedies as needed, is part of the homeopathic journey. 
  • Personally, I offer nutrition, supplementation and lifestyle recommendations, where appropriate, to compliment the homeopathic approach.

NUTRITION FOR THE IMMUNE SYSTEM 

  • Vitamin C acts as a natural antihistamine, potentially easing allergy symptoms. Incorporate citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits), bell peppers and strawberries.
  • Omega-3 essential fats possess anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce allergic reactions. Include salmon, walnuts and flaxseed, + our favourite algae-based Omega 3 supplements.
  • Ginger and turmeric have natural anti-inflammatory effects. Try powerful immunity shots and immunity paste blend as part of your child’s daily routine to help alleviate hay fever symptoms.

HOME THERAPIES

  • Ayurveda inspired nasal irrigation – the rinsing and oiling of nasal passages can help clear allergens and reduce/prevent symptoms. One of my boys daily health essentials that really works!
  • Minimise pollen exposure by limiting the time spent in grassy or wooded areas during high pollen counts, and use air purifiers to reduce possible indoor pollen levels.
  • Consuming local honey can alleviate hay fever symptoms, based on the idea that exposure to local pollen through honey can desensitize the immune system.