Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic condition that affects many children. It occurs when a child’s immune system overreacts to allergens, usually from pollen (from trees, grasses, or weeds).
Environmental Exposure – Increased exposure to allergens, such as during springtime (when pollen is high), can trigger hay fever. Urban environments, air pollution, and climate change have also been linked to a rise in allergic diseases.
Genetic Predisposition – Children whose parents have allergies are more likely to develop hay fever. This is because allergies do tend to run in families.
Immune System Overreaction – When a child is exposed to an allergen (like pollen), their immune system mistakenly identifies it as a harmful substance and releases histamines to protect the body. This causes the symptoms of hay fever.
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.
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.