By: Zoe Grams

For one in six Canadians, summer brings dreaded allergens and hay fever. Millions suffer from symptoms of congestion, a runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes for up to five months of the year, yet there are a number of simple, natural remedies that can easily be included into one’s daily routine to ease and relieve these ailments, ensuring the summer months and all the beloved outdoor activities are thoroughly enjoyed.

To combat a runny or congested nose, Canadians can turn to a trusted, centuries-old device for much needed relief – the neti pot. Originally used by yogis in India to improve breathing, the neti pot floods nasal passages with a warm, all-natural saline solution to relieve blockages and wash away allergens.

“The neti pot fights hay fever on two fronts,” explains Dr. Heatley, an ear, nose and throat doctor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and developer of the modern neti pot, SinuCleanse. “While providing instant relief from congestion discomfort, it flushes out allergens from the nasal passages, removing both the symptoms and the cause of nasal difficulties.”

To relieve stubborn, blocked-up chest congestion, try a natural, petroleum-free decongestant rub that will be softer on your skin than the non natural rubs, and gentle enough for the sensitive skin of children. Thera Wise’s Vaporizing Rub includes natural oils such as eucalyptus leaf, white pine and thyme while being vegan friendly and all natural.

For preventative and long-lasting remedies, sufferers can introduce natural herbal remedy supplements to their healthcare routine. Common remedies for hay fever symptoms include Stinging Nettle, available in tablet format. Nature’s most effective antihistamine, Quercetin, can be found in brightly coloured vegetables such as squash, courgettes, and broccoli, but supplements with higher doses are recommended. Canadians can also boost their immune system on a daily basis by taking Echinacea, which increases the body’s ability to fight infections.