It is almost unbelievable but sadly is an established fact that in Britain alone there are ten million people who suffer from hayfever – an allergy to pollen from plants and trees. For some people, the only symptoms may be no more than bouts of sneezing, a runny nose or itchy eyes. Others, however, are more severely afflicted. Desperate sufferers will go to great lengths to find any treatment that will give them a measure of relief. Of course, the nature of the treatment depends on the severity of the allergy.

Often those with a tendency to asthma and eczema will find themselves susceptible to hayfever. The link with these lies in the immune system. Cells known as eosinophils react first to the allergens which are usually protein molecules produced by Nature during spring and summer. These eosinophil cells may show up in the blood tests of allergy sufferers confirming the diagnosis. Reactions to the pollen of certain trees, especially oak and birch, and to grass pollen are certainly well known, but it is also possible for fungi to produce allergens.

Hayfever sufferers can take action at the beginning of the season, usually around April, by building their immunity to offensive factors. Remember that antibiotics, antihistamines or corticosteroids are rarely necessary as there are plenty of natural remedies ideally suited to overcoming these problems. There are many herbal and homoeopathic remedies from which to choose.

One such remedy is a complex of tropical herbs including Luffa operculata (sponge cucumber), much favoured by Alfred Vogel. In my experience it is one of the most exceptional remedies for hayfever and I have seen the proof of its success throughout the world. In acute attacks, taking ten drops of the tincture every hour for five hours often brings quick, welcome relief.

The results of research, undertaken in eight general practices in the Netherlands, showed that over 75 percent of hayfever patients had benefited greatly from this herbal complex. A spokesperson for the research team commented that the general feedback was that the allergic reactions were reduced as soon as the tincture was taken and the patients were extremely enthusiastic about this remedy.

Of the 199 patients who participated, 88.5 percent of the group reported some improvement. In addition 56.8 percent of the total claimed to be either fully or nearly free of allergic symptoms. Whilst most of these patients had been diagnosed as being allergic to pollen, it was concluded that even people who suffered from other forms of inhalation allergies or allergic rhinitis also benefited. For example, those who were affected by house dust or house dust mites also reported great improvement.

Recently there has been the introduction of a new product Luffa Nasal Spray with a unique dispensing mechanism. I have found this to be particularly useful for people suffering from nasal allergies which give them a blocked nose.

People with hayfever will probably have experienced that alcohol, nicotine, chocolate, dairy products and spices should be avoided. Instead of coffee or tea, drink a herbal tea or a lemon and honey drink, both of which are much more sensible and will help to alleviate the allergic condition.

So, if you suffer from hayfever, do not let ‘springtime’ spoil your appreciation of Nature. There are many ways that you can help yourself by using natural healing methods.