Tired of putting up with constant sniffles, itchy eyes, and congestion that come with hay fever? While there are many over-the-counter medications and treatments available, a natural sweetener might hold the key to relief: honey.
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Honey’s unique properties
Honey is more than just a go-to topping for your morning toast or tea. Studies have shown that locally sourced honey may boast unique properties that make it an effective tool for combating hay fever symptoms.
1. Antihistamine properties: Honey contains small amounts of histamine, which may seem counterintuitive, but can actually help build up a tolerance to the very thing that causes hay fever symptoms.
2. Anti-inflammatory properties: Honey’s anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe and calm the nasal passages, reducing congestion and discomfort.
3. Local bee pollen: Raw, unfiltered honey contains local bee pollen, which can help desensitise you to the specific allergens in your area.
How honey may help with hay fever
Consuming small amounts of raw, local honey regularly may help with hay fever by reducing the severity of hay fever symptoms with its s antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties.
By exposing yourself to small amounts of local bee pollen in unfiltered raw honey, you can build up a tolerance to the allergens that cause hay fever.
Plus, honey’s anti-inflammatory properties may provide some relief from congestion and discomfort.
3 tips for using honey to combat hay fever
1. Always choose raw, unfiltered honey: Processed honey may not contain the same beneficial properties as raw, unfiltered honey.
2. Consume locally sourced honey: Local bee pollen is key to building up a tolerance to local allergens.
3. Start early: Begin consuming honey a few weeks before hay fever season to allow your body to build up a tolerance.
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