Read on for a quick guide to some of the most popular alternatives:
Acupuncture
This age old therapy has been found to have a positive effect on hay fever symptoms. Researchers have found that it may be even more effective when used in combination with Chinese medicine though research is needed to discover which are the most effective.
Butterbur
Many hay fever remedies contain extracts from the butterbur plants and there is evidence which suggests its efficacy.
Capsaicin
This is a hot chemical derived from chillies and is usually applied as a spray under medical supervision. Patients have reported rapid and long lasting relief from this treatment. If you do administer this yourself at home then be extremely cautious and always follow the instructions as it could be painful, resulting in blistering if not correctly administered.
Honey
Honey has long since been championed for its medicinal benefits and it has now been found to be of benefit in the hay fever stakes. A 1995 study revealed that patients who were sensitive to pollen did not respond to honey with pollen traces in it. Experts believe that this could mean honey can desensitise the body to pollen and build immunity so that symptoms are reduced. Experts have recommend that you buy local honey from farm shops in your area as this is likely to contain pollen from the local area.
Nettle
A past study has found nettle to be effective at reducing symptoms of hay fever though more clinical evidence is needed.
View the original Times article.
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