Most people are feeling relieved to see that spring has sprung but for many it spells the start of allergy season. It is estimated that 10-30% of adults and 40% of children experience hay fever in varying degrees of severity. Along with hay fever, many more people suffer from other allergies such as eczema, food and pet allergies.

Hay fever is no fun..

Allergic reactions are an abnormal immune response, when certain substances such as pollen, pet hairs, dust mites or mould cause the body to make allergic antibodies (also known as immunoglobulins). Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system to stop an intruder from entering the body and causing harm. Antibodies mark these intruders to be targeted by your immune system. When people have allergies, they produce more antibodies than necessary, leading their immune system to over react and create the symptoms they experience.

So while the body is doing its best to mark these intruders as best it can, the down side is that excess production of our antibodies causes the body to make way too many fighters and thus; we get the sneezes, sniffles and other side effects.

Apart from a number of over the counter meds you can pick up from Mr. Down The Road pharmacy, you might also consider some other options. We’ll take a look at an interesting herb that is often prescribed by herbalists and naturopaths to take the edge off allergic reactions.  When you see the name of this herb, your first reaction will be to run down to Woolies or Coles and grab a bag of soft chew Liquorice but, it’s just a tad different and you may want to read on before putting the coin in the shopping trolley.

Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)..

Liquorice is one of our favourite herbs as it has so many uses. It is an excellent anti-inflammatory and has a soothing effect. It is also very helpful for supporting people in times of stress and fatigue, which is often the case in severe hay fever. There are also some indications that may enhance clearance of immune complexes (such as antibodies) from the body.

Most herbal preparations that have Liquorice as an ingredient will also include other wonderful herbs as part of a complex mix such as, elder flower, sage, thyme, skullcap, garlic, echinacea, olive leaf and astragalus. You might not find all of these ingredients in one medicine or remedy however; if you do your research and read the label, you will certainly identify a product that will help you in times of need.

Try and get a product that is made in Australia, made at a reputable facility and we think

liquids are the best way to take medicine. Liquids have a quick uptake in the body and you can dilute to taste.

Always speak to your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen

Be safe and stay healthy