What is allergic rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal lining triggered by an immune response to inhaled allergens — most commonly pollen (seasonal/hay fever), dust mites, mould spores, or animal dander (perennial). Symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, and itchy eyes and throat. It affects approximately 20% of the population and significantly impairs quality of life and sleep.

What complementary approaches help allergic rhinitis?

Acupuncture has moderate evidence for reducing symptom severity and antihistamine requirements. Nasal saline irrigation removes allergens from the nasal cavity and reduces mucosal inflammation. Quercetin and vitamin C have antihistamine-like properties with some supporting evidence. Identifying and reducing allergen exposure through environmental modifications is important alongside any symptomatic treatment.

Is there a dietary component to managing hay fever?

Certain foods cross-react with pollen allergens — people with grass pollen allergy may react to tomatoes, melons, or oranges; birch pollen allergies can cross-react with apples, peaches, and celery (oral allergy syndrome). An anti-inflammatory dietary pattern and gut microbiome support have theoretical benefit. A nutritional therapist can help identify relevant dietary factors.

What are the most effective conventional treatments?

Intranasal corticosteroids are the most effective pharmacological treatment for moderate-to-severe symptoms. Non-sedating antihistamines provide good symptom control for mild presentations. Allergen immunotherapy (desensitisation) — either subcutaneous or sublingual — can provide long-term reduction in sensitivity through repeated low-dose allergen exposure and is appropriate for severe, well-characterised allergic rhinitis.

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Allergic rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis involves inflammation of the nasal passages in response to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. Holistic approaches including nutritional therapy, quercetin supplementation, ac

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Reviewed by Dr. Ciara Magee · Integrative Midwifery26 March 2026Evidence varies

Quick answer

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Allergic rhinitis is experienced as a cluster of nasal and eye symptoms triggered by exposure to airborne allergens — most commonly pollen (seasonal), dust mites, pet dander, or mould (perennial)
Persistent sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itching in the nose, eyes, and throat, and watery eyes are characteristic
Many people describe the exhaustion of managing these symptoms continuously — the cumulative effect on sleep quality, concentration, and daily energy is significant
Many describe the condition as more debilitating than it sounds from the outside
In those with asthma, allergic rhinitis and asthma frequently interact, with nasal inflammation affecting breathing

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