The arrival of spring goes hand in hand with the return of sunny days … but also allergies! The sun and milder temperatures le different species of plants bloom, releasing infamous allergens: pollen.

It is important to note, that not all pollen is allergenic. To be allergenic the pollen must be disseminated in the air. Therefore, only wind-loving plants, such as cypresses, olive trees, ash trees, but also grasses, are responsible for allergies.

Carried in the air, these microscopic seeds (between 20 and 30 microns) enter the nose, eyes and bronchi and trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people. Also called “hay fever”, this allergic rhinitis affects 1 in 3 people in France from April to June. The return of mild weather often means “sluggishness’” for many of us.

Allergic rhinitis is mainly linked to pollen. It usually spares those under three and doesn’t really kick in until the age of six. Unfortunately, for sensitive people, allergic rhinitis is seasonal and returns every year with the start of spring.

From the age of 6, everyone is likely to develop persistent rhinitis, often as a result of a change in environment, such as moving.

The causes of the development of hay fever are still unknown, although it is obvious that genetics play a major role. In fact, a person whose parent is allergic will develop an allergy in 7 out of 10 cases.

Although often linked to different pollens, allergic rhinitis can also come from hypersensitivity to certain allergens, such as mould or even certain animal hair. People with allergies are often encouraged take preventative treatment before the onset of spring and its pollen.

While sometimes difficult to identify, allergic rhinitis can be differentiated from a cold or another viral infection if you pay attention to the symptoms, so that you can treat and prevent them more easily.

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis can have a considerable impact on daily life with various symptoms that are not serious, but very disabling, such as:

  • Sneezing

  • Itchy nose

  • Stuffy nose and thick nasal discharge

  • Difficulty breathing, wheezing and coughing

  • Feeling of tightness in the rib cage

  • Irritation of the palate, ear canals and eyes

  • Irritability

  • Fatigue

  • Headache

  • Insomnia, etc.

These symptoms require early and appropriate management.

Allergic rhinitis or the common cold?

Whether seasonal or recurrent, allergic rhinitis can be differentiated by its origins and symptoms from the common cold. We help you make the distinction.

Allergic rhinitis is caused by allergens and is triggered by contact with them. The associated signs are often an itchy nose, and itchy and watery eyes. They can last from a few days to a few months.

The common cold is caused by a virus and is triggered by viral contamination. Its signs include muscle pain, as well as headaches and usually lasts a week.

What should you do on a daily basis?

To avoid these pollens as much as possible, a few simple things that you can do every day can help protect you:

  • Shower, wash your hair and hands regularly and change clothes inside

  • Limit nature walks

  • Regularly clean in order to remove resistant particles

  • Do not dry laundry outside

  • Do sport earlier, rather at the end of the day (the effects of pollen absorption are amplified during periods of hyperventilation)

  • Air out your home early in the morning and late at night

  • Brush your hair every night to remove particles

Other factors of daily life can also amplify the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as tobacco, perfume, air pollution, temperature variations, drafts and wind.

In parallel with these small acts, Phytotherapy is a widely used alternative to traditional histamines to naturally and effectively soothe the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Focus on plants for a serene spring:

Eucalyptus Globulus is an ideal plant in case of respiratory congestion. Its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties will be very useful in clearing the lower respiratory tract.

Dead Sea Salt, used in hypertonic solution, creates a protective film in the nasal mucosa while thinning mucus and reducing swelling. In this way, it facilitates flow to eliminate bacteria.

Aromatherapy is also a natural and effective alternative, to improve respiratory comfort, reduce fatigue and tone the body:

Thyme Essential Oil is used in ENT disorders. Thyme is very useful in helping clear the airways, it is also a good tonic in case of mental or physical fatigue.

Mint Essential Oil has anti-inflammatory properties often used in ENT. It helps to unclog the nose for better breathing comfort.

Siberian Fir Essential Oil has a decongestant action on the respiratory tract. It helps thin phlegm and soothe coughs.

L’Lemon essential oil recognized for its action on respiratory ailments and its antiseptic properties, will soothe the throat and nose. Its tonic action is ideal for boosting the bodies and fighting against fatigue.