Natural health: What can my children take for their hay fever?

Hay fever (also known as allergic rhinitis) can be intensely frustrating, particularly with young ones. 
Nettle leaf is a surprising but effective herbal remedy used for centuries to treat hay fever. It is a natural antihistamine that combines well with chamomile flowers to make a soothing herbal infusion. Add a heaped teaspoon of dried herbs per cup of near-boiling water and steep for 3-5 minutes, then add local raw honey to taste. 

Strain and have your children drink at least 500ml daily if possible (it is just as effective and enjoyable when cooled).  Local raw honey is believed to help desensitise the immune system to the local pollens.

Bee pollen may help the body build tolerance for certain pollens that cause allergies. However, this should only be done under the guidance of a doctor.  If your child is allergic to bees, do not give them bee products like pollen, honey, or propolis unless their allergy specialist says it’s safe. 

For those without known allergies, start with a very small amount of bee pollen and slowly increase it if there’s no reaction. 

Quercetin is another natural antihistamine found in apples, berries, broccoli, and leafy greens. If you can get your children to eat more of these foods or even take a quercetin supplement, this can help buffer and reduce allergic responses.

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are another excellent way to reduce the inflammatory response your children are experiencing and bolster their immune systems. 

EFAs can be found in flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and oily fish such as salmon. Alternatively, try an Ultimate Omega supplement formulated by Nordic Naturals, especially for children.

Surprisingly simple, yet effective, methods include having your children shower and change their clothes after being outdoors, and keeping the windows closed on windy days or during times of high pollen. 

Always consult your child’s healthcare provider before trying new remedies, particularly if your child takes medication or has other health conditions.

I recently had my teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist, and they have been highly sensitive to cold drinks since. Sometimes, the sensitivity flares up on its own accord. What would you suggest?

The sensitivity you are experiencing after having a deep clean and scale by your dental hygienist is relatively common. 

The procedure involves removing the buildup of plaque and tartar, both above and below the gumline.
While this helps to improve gum health and prevent decay, it can temporarily expose areas of your teeth that were previously shielded, particularly around the roots or receding gums, making them more sensitive to temperature changes, sweet foods, and touch.

This post-cleaning sensitivity usually lasts from a few days to a week and is a side effect of your teeth and gums adjusting to their newly cleaned state. Some remedies may help to ease the discomfort as your teeth settle down.

Rinsing with a saltwater solution helps to reduce inflammation and heal the gum area. Use ½-1 teaspoon of salt per 500ml warm water and swish twice daily after brushing and flossing. 

Clove bud tincture has natural analgesic and antibacterial properties, so you can add a drop into your salt water or use a cotton bud to apply directly to particularly sensitive areas.

Avoiding acidic foods and drinks can make a big difference, particularly while your teeth adjust.

Several natural toothpastes help soothe nerve endings and remineralise teeth enamel. Most of these contain active ingredients such as potassium nitrate, aloe vera, or arginine. If your sensitivity persists beyond two weeks or becomes worse, contact your dental hygienist.