The £1.99 plant which makes hayfever a thing of the past – it purifies air & keeps pollen at bay for cheap, experts say
A £1.99 plant makes hayfever a thing of the past as it purifies air and keeps pollen at bay, experts say.
The right plants can reduce pollen levels indoors as people begin to experience sneezing and watering eyes as the weather warms this year.
One of those plants is the peace lily.
The plant adds a touch of tranquillity to any space but also serves as a natural air purifier.
Its lush foliage and white blooms work to capture pollen and other allergens, improving indoor air quality.
Plant expert Elise Harlock said the peace lily was great for rooms where people spend a lot of time in, like a living room.
She said: “Just be mindful not to overwater them, as they prefer slightly moist soil.”
Elise said that having a peace lily in an indoor space can create a sanctuary free from pollen and allergens and provide much-needed relief for hayfever sufferers.
She said: “Not only do these plants improve air quality, but they also bring a sense of calm and beauty to any room.
“Avoiding hayfever symptoms can feel like a challenge as pollen levels rise with the warming weather.
“Surprisingly, certain houseplants can provide relief by reducing indoor pollen levels. It’s like inviting nature in to help you breathe easier.”
There are also other plants that do the same job as the peace lily.
One of those plants is the Boston fern which is already a popular choice for allergy sufferers.
With its feathery fronds and air-purifying capabilities, the fern is particularly effective at removing pollutants from the air, including pollen, while also adding a touch of greenery to your home.
Elise said: “Boston ferns thrive in high humidity environments, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
“Misting their leaves regularly can help keep them happy and healthy.”
Another plant that can help is the snake plant.
That plant is renowned for its resilience and ability to thrive in low-light conditions, an ideal choice for allergy-prone individuals.
Its upright leaves not only add visual interest but also work to filter out airborne toxins, including pollen.
Elise said: “snake plants are virtually indestructible.
“They’re perfect for beginners or those with busy schedules, requiring minimal maintenance.”
Best hay fever treatments to buy online
1. Allergy Eye Mist
If you hate the thought of drops, consider an eye mist which works in the same way – just spray it once or twice onto closed eyelids to to three times a day.
Try Optrex ActiMist Double Action Spray Itchy Watery Eyes, £13.75. Boots Allergy Eye Mist, 10ml, £9.99, is suitable for all types of contact lenses too.
2. Cetirizine Allergy & Hay Fever Tablets
Products containing Cetirizine work to combat allergies without making you feel tired.
Superdrug’s pack of 30 tablets comes in at £5.45.
3. Hay Fever Relief Nasal Spray
For over-the-counter relief you could try Pirinase Allergy Relief Nasal Spray for Adults x 60 Sprays from Superdrug, £8.39.
Or for something on prescription, try Beclometasone Nasal Spray from ChemistClick, £5.49.
4. Jelly
Dabbing a little bit of petroleum jelly around the edges of your nose works as a barrier to trap pollen before you breathe it in.
Try branded balms such as Haymax pure organic drug-free pollen barrier balm 5ml, £8.49. Or petroleum jelly such as Vaseline does just the same job for only a fraction of the price.
5. The Eye Doctor Allergy Hay Fever Compress
The Eye Doctor Allergy Hay Fever Compress has thermal dynamic fabric, which uses regulated evaporation to cool more rapidly.
It helps to reduce puffiness, swelling, itching, inflammation and even headaches, and comes with an adjustable comfy strap.
You can buy it at Superdrug for £8.99.
6. Throat spray
Ultra Chloraseptic Anaesthetic Throat Spray contains the active ingredient benzocaine which belongs to the group of medicines called local anaesthetics.
You can buy Ultra Chloraseptic Anaesthetic Throat Spray for £6 from Amazon.
