Spring - Hay fever Survival

Spring is nearing, I have seen Daffodils flowering in Grey Lynn
Park, and the birds are making happy sounds as they prepare for
mating and nesting in the coming months.

The winter brought with it very horrible viruses and a lot of lung
problems, with coughs lasting 6 weeks or more and we struggled to
keep our big-sellers stocked on the shelves.

Our temperate climate creates health issues all of it’s own, and
many people experience worsening symptoms of respiratory and
breathing disorders when they return to Auckland from traveling.
We are blessed to be surrounded by beaches and rainforest, but this
creates a very humid environment. The high humidity can cause
many problems for asthmatics, those with delicate lungs, children
and allergy sufferers. The introduction of high-pollen exotic trees
such as pine and privet add a seasonal complication to the mix.

I recently spoke with a customer who now lives in the Caribbean,
which has a very dry and warm climate, very low humidity, and she
told me that her children never get sick until they come back to
Auckland.

So to all the hay fever sufferers dreading spring, there are some
things you can do to alleviate your discomfort. Daily doses of
Vitamin C can reduce the activity of histamine, which is one of the
main culprits in the production of symptoms. Quercetin is another
useful supplement for allergic responses. A combination of the two
can be very effective.

Cell salts and homeopathic remedies can provide good
symptomatic relief and are particularly useful for children.

A tailor made herbal formula is an option, and now would be
a good time to get going on a program to improve the immune
system and strengthen mucous membranes. Talk to your herbalist
or naturopath about starting a course of treatment, it could save
you a lot of discomfort over the coming months.

A spring detox will also be a useful step to take to improve your
general well being. It has been a difficult winter with the rainfall
hampering outdoor activities and encouraging inactivity for many
of us. Try reducing meat and dairy, increasing fruit and vegetables
or adding a fresh vege juice or green drink to your daily diet.

Cutting down on alcohol and
coffee will really give your liver a break and it will love
you for it. A herbal tonic, cleansing tea or supplement
will aid the process.

There is so much to look forward to with the coming
of spring. Opening the windows, getting into the garden,
longer evenings and flowers blooming! We wish you all
a healthy and happy spring.