As health-centred leaders, maintaining productivity and well-being during hay fever season can be a significant challenge. Contrary to popular belief, hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, isn’t limited to the summer months; it can strike at any time of the year. Common triggers include pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, as well as dust mites, pet dander, and mould.
is it histamine intolerAnce?
When airborne allergens come into contact with the moist lining of your nose and sinuses, your immune system produces IgE antibodies. These antibodies prompt the release of histamines, leading to typical hay fever symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and fatigue.
Chronic hay fever may also stem from a histamine intolerance, which can result from prolonged exposure to allergens or a lack of essential nutrients.
To manage hay fever effectively, ensure your diet includes cofactors like vitamin C, B6, and copper, which are necessary for breaking down histamine. Vitamin C acts as an antihistamine, and studies suggest an optimal dose of 750 mg per day, with some recommending up to 2,000 mg for acute symptoms. However, be mindful of potential digestive side effects, like loose stools, when taking higher doses.
dietary adjustments
Probiotics can also be highly beneficial. Certain strains, such as bifidobacterium lactis and lactobacillus acidophilus, have been shown to reduce hay fever symptoms by inhibiting mast cell degranulation and producing anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 (IL-10).
Dietary adjustments play a crucial role in managing hay fever. Foods from the allium family—garlic, onions, leeks, and chives—along with turmeric, green tea, broccoli sprouts, and other cruciferous vegetables, help reduce histamine release and inflammation.
Conversely, consider reducing your intake of high-histamine foods, such as aged cheeses, fermented products, and certain fruits like citrus, to see if this provides any relief. Always reintroduce these foods one at a time to identify specific sensitivities.
natural remedies
In addition to dietary changes, natural remedies can offer significant relief. Herbal ointments containing nettle or longleaf plantain can serve as physical barriers against airborne allergens. Herbal supplements like albizia, Baikal Skullcap, and tinnospora modulate the immune response and reduce histamine release, providing further symptomatic relief. Elderflower and longleaf plantain can support the mucous membranes, while nettle inhibits histamine receptors and reduces mast cell degranulation.
For a more tailored approach, consider consulting a medical herbalist and exploring courses on blending herbs for therapeutic teas. They can offer personalised advice, considering any underlying health conditions or medications you may be taking.
Moreover, a specialised course can teach you how to create herbal teas that not only taste good but also effectively support your health conditions, such as hay fever.
As an executive coach and medical herbalist, Tracy reveals health protocols in her coaching sessions, ensuring that her clients maintain peak performance even during hay fever season. Adopting these holistic strategies can help you lead effectively and stay at your best, regardless of the season.
For more in-depth guidance, tune into our podcast episode on hay fever and holistic health tips. If you’re curious about how Tracy can assist you further, feel free to message her on LinkedIn or Instagram. Let’s ensure you stay productive and healthy, even during the hay fever season.