Homeopathy for Hay fever
Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, can be a challenging condition that affects many individuals, especially during the spring and summer months when pollen is prevalent. Homeopathy offers a gentle and holistic approach to managing symptoms, which can include sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, and watery eyes.
Common Homeopathic Remedies for Hayfever
Allium Cepa
Similar symptoms to those one feels when cutting up onions. A commonly used remedy for hay fever with predominant nasal symptoms. There is frequent sneezing and a profuse, watery discharge that may burn the nose and upper lip. The nose feels raw and itchy, with irritation extending to the back of the throat and roof of the mouth. Eyes are red, sensitive to light, and produce burning, watery tears. Sensitive to the smell of flowers. Pressure felt in the middle of the chest, with cough that sounds asthmatic.
Better in cool, open air.
Worse in warm rooms, rubbing eyes.
Arsenicum Album
Indicated when hay fever involves burning nasal discharge, itching, and irritation around the nose. Sneezing offers no relief. May be accompanied by asthma-like symptoms—wheezing, shortness of breath, a need to sit up to breathe (worse lying down). Individuals are often restless, anxious, and chilly, with a strong sensitivity to cold.
Better when sitting up and staying indoors.
Worse at midnight, in midsummer, or outdoors, lying down.
Arsenicum Iodatum
This remedy is characterized by a persistent, acrid nasal discharge and constant irritation or tickling in the nose, causing a strong urge to sneeze. It is especially useful in chronic nasal catarrh where the discharge is thick and yellow, though it can alternate with thin and watery mucus. Swelling of the cervical glands may be present. The individual tends to be physically and mentally restless and shows signs of emaciation despite a ravenous appetite.
Worse from cold baths and sneezing, and though the person may be drawn to cold, it often aggravates their condition.
Better with warm drinks or sipping warm water.
Dulcamara
Dulcamara is best suited for hay fever that begins during hot days followed by cold nights, particularly in late summer or early autumn. It is triggered by sudden changes in weather, especially from dry to moist or from warm to cold conditions. The nose tends to be stuffed and congestion is relieved by covering the nose, due to sensitivity to cold air. The pattern often begins with dry coryza, progresses to nasal blockage, then to profuse watery discharge, and finally thick yellow mucus. The nasal discharge is profuse and watery, accompanied by sneezing, coughing, and excessive watering from the eyes and nose.
Worse in cold, damp/rainy weather, open air and on rainy or chilly days.
Better in warm, closed rooms, from physical movement, and with external warmth.
Euphrasia (Eyebright)
Best suited for hay fever with predominant eye symptoms—profuse, burning tears, redness, and irritation, especially from sunlight or wind. Vision may feel affected. The nose runs during the day but becomes blocked at night. May experience a bursting headache.
Better in open air, with wiping the eyes or blinking.
Gelsemium
Gelsemium is helpful when hay fever feels like the onset of a flu, with dullness, drowsiness, and dizziness accompanying all complaints. The person feels heavy, with drooping eyelids and difficulty lifting the head. Headaches are associated with muscular soreness in the neck and shoulders, with occipital pain that extends upward. Headaches are relieved by urination and lying with the head elevated but worsened by wine and around 10 a.m. The face appears flushed, hot, and dusky red, and the expression remains dull and heavy. Swallowing is difficult, especially warm food, and pain may radiate from the throat to the ear. Thirst is typically absent.
Mix Pollen
A combination remedy made from pollens of trees, grasses, and flowers. Used for general hay fever symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, and burning sensations. Especially helpful when symptoms are triggered by multiple types of pollen. Best taken during hay fever season to help reduce sensitivity and ease symptoms.
Natrum Muriaticum
Indicated for hay fever with violent sneezing and runny nose, with discharge that’s thin and egg white-like, along with nasal obstruction. Watery, burning, and itchy eyes, especially worse in sunlight. Coughing may trigger eye watering. May also experience loss of smell and taste, and cold sores during hay fever episodes. Often has a strong desire for salt.
Worse from sun exposure and emotional stress.
Nux Vomica
Helpful for hay fever triggered by irritants or stress, especially in irritable, tense individuals. Characterized by frequent sneezing, runny nose during the day, and nasal blockage at night (or one-sided). May have a tickling, raw throat, and sneezing can trigger headaches. Wheezing may occur, especially after overeating or when the stomach feels full.
Better with rest and warmth.
Worse from cold, stress, or digestive discomfort.
Pulsatilla
Used for hay fever with thick, yellow, bland nasal discharge and a blocked nose. Eyes are itchy, burning, and watery, with frequent sneezing and loss of smell and taste. The person may be weepy, emotional, and seeks comfort.
Better in open air.
Worse in warm, stuffy rooms.
Sabadilla
Helpful for hay fever with intense, frequent sneezing, especially from pollen exposure. Nasal discharge is watery, burning, with itching in the nose and soft palate. Eyes are red, watery, with frontal headaches and pressure in the eyes. Nasal congestion may alternate sides. There's heightened sensitivity to smells—even the thought or smell of flowers can trigger symptoms. Mouth is dry with no thirst. Breathing becomes wheezy.
Better in a warm room, with heat, and indoors.
Worse from cold air, smell of garlic, or freshly cut grass.
Wyethia
Severe itching on the roof of the mouth and deep behind the nose—often spreading to the throat and ears—is a key indication for this remedy. The entire head feels dry and irritated, even if nasal discharge is present. The throat feels swollen, prompting constant clearing, but without relief. There is an ongoing urge to swallow saliva, often without improvement. Follicular pharyngitis is commonly associated.
Tips for Using Homeopathy
Dosage: Homeopathic remedies can be taken in various potencies; 30C is a common one for acute symptoms. It’s advisable to start with one dose and wait to assess how your symptoms respond before repeating. If your symptoms do not improve after four doses, try another remedy.
Consult a Professional: If you're unsure which remedy to take or if your symptoms are severe, consulting a qualified homeopath can provide personalised advice tailored to your needs.