It usually starts in early spring and every year makes an estimated 12 million UK residents' lives unbearable – and, thanks to global warming, it's going to last longer in years to come. The hayfever season is a miserable time for many, and while there is a range of effective hayfever relief medications available, some people are put off by the side-effects they may cause, including drowsiness and rapid heart beat.

Hayfever is triggered by a reaction to airborne tree and grass pollens, as well as moulds, weeds and fungal spores. The season starts in March with the release of tree pollens and lasts right through to October – though experts suspect climate change may lead to earlier – and longer – pollen release.

If you're a hayfever sufferer, it means your immune system sees pollen as a danger, so when it enters your body via your eyes, nose or mouth, your immune system sets up a series of biochemical actions to stop the pollen molecules getting through. One of these actions is the release of histamine, which causes anything from sneezing and itchy, watery eyes to more serious anaphylaxis symptoms such as shortness of breath, low blood pressure and swelling in the mouth and throat.

One of the most common conventional remedies for hayfever symptoms is a type of drug called antihistamines. Available in tablet or liquid form, these reduce the release of histamine from your immune system. If, however, you experience some or all of the side-effects caused by antihistamines and other allergy medicines, there are natural alternatives that may provide relief…

Vitamin C

Some natural health experts believe taking vitamin C may help beat some of the symptoms of hayfever as it acts as a natural antihistamine and also because it may help boost your immune system. In one study published in the Ear, Nose and Throat Journal, 74 per cent of sufferers taking vitamin C found their hayfever symptoms decreased.

Quercetin

The bioflavanoid compound quercetin is also widely thought to act as an antihistamine. Found naturally in red and yellow onions, shallots, squash, courgettes and broccoli, quercetin is available in supplement form.

Butterbur

Several studies claim the herb butterbur (Petasites hybridus) is an effective alternative to conventional antihistamines. One report, for example, published in the British Medical Journal, found butterbur as effective as cetirizine, a drug-based antihistamine commonly used to treat hayfever.

Pycnogenol

Similarly, pycnogenol – an extract of pine bark – has been shown to have an antihistamine effect. One study published in the Journal of Phytotherapy Research suggests it may reduce histamine release by around 70 per cent. 

Eyebright

Some herbal manufacturers make an eye drop product that contains the herb eyebright  (Euphrasia officinalis), which is thought to help relieve itchy, irritated eyes. Eyebright is a herb that is believed to have natural cleansing properties plus antibacterial oils that have been used for the treatment of eye problems since the Middle Ages.

Homeopathy

Many natural health experts also believe homeopathic remedies are effective in the treatment of hayfever. For instance, the remedies Allium cepa and Euphrasia may help relieve runny eyes, while Sabadilla may provide relief from sneezing. Some homeopathic practitioners also recommend taking a spoonful of locally-produced honey as it is made from pollen from the very flowers and plants that may be triggering your symptom.

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