Allergies tend to be associated with springtime, but winter has its own army of sinus-invading adversaries. Add to that a battalion of lurking viruses, Covid included, and it’s clear that we need to have our defences ready.
What does the enemy look like?
Surprisingly enough, there are a number of allergens that become more prolific during winter. The main reason for this is less indoor ventilation with increased humidity.
Then, too, we tend to spend more time indoors, at the mercy of the likes of increased pet dander, house dust mites and mould. All of these thrive under poorly ventilated, humid conditions.
Another culprit is cockroach droppings, the levels of which can also increase in winter.
Cold and flu viruses can furthermore be prolonged by any existing allergies, while cold air can irritate one’s airways and make them more susceptible to allergy-related symptoms.
Other irritants include increased pollution during winter, indoor fires and heaters.
A battle plan
A good place to start is the broom cupboard: whisk out the vacuum cleaner, fit it with a HEPA filter and go allergen-hunting in every nook and cranny. Don’t forget mattresses and couches, and even curtains!
Next, wash all bedding and blankets at a temperature of at least 60 degrees. Air thick blankets and duvets in the sun.
Mop the floors, and open doors and windows at least once a day.
As for the cockroach war, best is to keep all surfaces squeaky clean and food out of reach in airtight containers.
Apart from a ‘winter’ clean, the other direction to look into is treatments that boost your system and soothe and decongest your nasal passages and sinuses.
Invest In Health stocks a number of natural products in the form of nasal sprays and tablets that act to prevent and relieve hayfever- and sinusitis-related symptoms.
All-natural products that prevent or treat allergy
| Nasal sprays | ALBIOFA DISTRIBUTORS Lacti-Nose Nasal Spray | A probiotic nasal spray that provides natural relief from nasal congestion and airborne irritants. |
| APIS Propolis Tincture | This mucous decongestant acts to fight germs, viruses, infections and inflammation. | |
| PHYTO-FORCE Sinu-Logic | A herbal formulation that lowers histamine levels naturally and treats sinusitis, hayfever and other nasal congestion. | |
| Similasan Preservative-Free Sinus Relief nasal mist | Soothes and moisturises your sinuses and relieves congestion. | |
| SIMILASAN Hayfever Spray | A homeopathic medication that stimulates the body’s natural ability to relieve congestion and an itchy and runny nose. | |
| SFERA BIO NUTRITION Biotic Complex Spray | By promoting and maintaining healthy intestinal flora, this spray combats allergies, among other benefits. | |
| Supplements and oils | Organic KIRKMAN Vitamin C and LIPOLIFE Liposomal Vitamin C Gold | Vitamin C provides broad-spectrum immune support. |
| NATURA Hay F | This homeopathic medicine helps sooth respiratory mucosa in the treatment of hayfever, allergic rhinitis and seasonal sinusitis. | |
| KIRKMAN N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) | KIRKMAN NAC is an amino acid that acts as a mucous decongestant. NAC furthermore supports the immune system response and helps maintain and process glutathione, an important component of the body’s natural detoxification system. | |
| NATURA Mixed Allergin Tablets | A homeopathic medicine that helps de-sensitise reactions to various allergens. | |
| PHYTO-FORCE Sinu-Logic | This formulation of herbs lowers histamine levels naturally and is used to treat and clear sinusitis- and hayfever-related disorders. | |
| OCO LIFE Essential Oil – Breathe | An organic blend of essential oils with anti-bacterial properties that opens the respiratory tract and allows easy breathing. | |
| QUICKSILVER SCIENTIFIC Hista Aid | Acting on mast cells, this blend of flavonoids, Vitamin C and Diindolylmethane acts to inhibit and inactivate histamine release. | |
| Cough syrup/ Decongestant | DR MOM’S HOMOEOPATHIC Marshmallow & Mullein Flower Cough Syrup | This gentle blend of herbs naturally decongests and soothes the respiratory tract. |
Takeaway
Forewarned is forearmed – this winter, prepare for allergies by getting rid of allergens in the home and fortifying your family with pure, natural remedies. Then, cosy up and enjoy this season of extra time spent indoors with loved ones and catching up on favourite pursuits.