Wild About Spring and being prepared for a strong immunity & hayfever

I have always looked forward to the changing of the seasons, and for many people this truly is the most beautiful time of the year. I may be a little biased because I absolutely love nature and the many gifts she continually gives us.

There is something special about seeing leaves change color, watching daffodils emerge and greet the new season, and enjoying the sunshine that helps produce the delicious fruits and vegetables that nourish our bodies and uplift our spirits.

Just as nature renews itself, spring is also a wonderful reminder that our bodies benefit from renewal too. It can be helpful to consider supporting the body with a gentle internal cleanse a few times a year to maintain vitality, boost energy levels and nurture the immune system.

This is particularly important for those who notice symptoms of hay fever or sinus imbalance as soon as the seasons begin to change.

Why Spring Triggers Hay Fever

One of the biggest triggers for spring allergies is pollen. Trees, grasses and weeds release tiny pollen grains into the air to fertilise other plants. When these particles enter the nose of someone who is sensitive to them, the body’s immune system may react strongly.

An allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to an otherwise harmless substance, known as an allergen. When this happens, the body produces antibodies that trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals.

Histamine causes swelling in the nose and eyes in an attempt to stop allergens from entering the body. It also causes sneezing as the body tries to remove these allergens.

For many people, this reaction becomes particularly noticeable during spring when pollen levels are at their highest.

Supporting the Body During Hay Fever Season

During the spring months, many people look for natural ways to support their wellbeing and maintain balance in the body.

One option often used during hay fever season is Combination H Tissue Salts, a traditional blend of Schuessler Tissue Salts commonly used to support the body during seasonal allergy challenges.

Combination H is often chosen by those who experience symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes and nasal irritation during the pollen season. Some people prefer to begin taking Combination H a few weeks before the height of spring to help prepare the body for increased exposure to allergens.

Signs You May Be Experiencing Seasonal Allergies

• red and watery eyes
• sneezing
• runny nose
• itchy eyes, nose, ears, and mouth
• stuffy nose due to congestion
• puffy eyes
• post-nasal drip, where there is a sensation of mucus dripping down the back of the throat
• hives (rare)
• coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing

Experiencing one or more of these symptoms can make spring an uncomfortable time for some people. Supporting the immune system and maintaining overall balance in the body may help reduce their impact.

Many people choose to include Combination H Tissue Salts as part of their seasonal wellness routine to help support the body during times when pollen levels are higher.

Strengthening Immunity Through Nutrition

A strong immune system can make a big difference when it comes to managing seasonal challenges.

Eating foods rich in Vitamin C is an excellent way to support immune health while also benefiting the liver, digestive system and bowel.

Some wonderful Vitamin C–rich foods include:

• Oranges
• Blueberries
• Passionfruit
• Pineapple
• Kiwi fruit
• Sweet potatoes
• Tomatoes
• Green & Red Peppers
• Spinach
• Cabbage…

When your immune system is strong, your body may respond more calmly to environmental allergens, allowing you to enjoy spring more comfortably.

Some people also combine a healthy diet with supportive remedies such as Combination H Tissue Salts, which are traditionally used during hay fever season to help maintain balance in the body.

The Importance of Vitamin C

Did you know that the body cannot produce its own Vitamin C? This means it is essential to include plenty of Vitamin C–rich foods in your daily diet.

Since 2020, many people have also begun including a Vitamin C supplement as part of their daily routine to help maintain a healthy immune system.

Vitamin C acts as a natural antihistamine and antioxidant, helping to reduce the amount of histamine the body produces in response to allergens. This may assist in easing symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, runny nose and watery eyes often associated with allergic rhinitis.

Another helpful compound is Quercetin, a plant flavonoid found in foods such as yellow peppers and capers. Quercetin has been shown to help support the body’s response to allergens.

A Gentle Spring Cleansing Soup

One of my favourite ways to welcome spring is with a simple cleansing soup. I usually begin enjoying this nourishing recipe as soon as I feel spring in the air. It is delicious, nutritious and helps provide a gentle cleanse for the body.

Ingredients: 

•  2 Zucchinis
•  1 head of broccoli
•  3 stalks of celery
•  ½ clove of garlic
• 1 – 2 cubes vegetable stock diluted in 20mls hot water. 

Method:

Dice up the garlic and add to a pan with oil and after 1 minute add the diced vegetables listed above and then add the stock.  Cook for 40 minutes and then puree.

Alkaline soup for a few days.  Replace 1-2 meals with this soup and enjoy the cleanse it provides your body.

By Susan Gianevsky

Naturopath | Homeopath | International Speaker