Can Honey help with Hayfever?
Can Honey Help with Hayfever? The Natural Remedy Everyone’s Talking About
If you're one of the millions of people who suffer from hayfever each spring and summer, you know just how frustrating it can be. Sneezing, itchy eyes, runny noses—it's no fun at all. But did you know that local honey could help ease your hayfever symptoms naturally?
At Herd & Hive, we’ve seen first-hand how customers swear by our pure Yorkshire honey during allergy season. In this post, we’ll explore the science and tradition behind using local honey for hayfever, why local is best, and how you can incorporate it into your daily routine.
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What Is Hayfever?
Hayfever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to pollen. It’s most common in the UK between late March and September when pollen counts are at their highest. Grass, tree, and weed pollen can all trigger hayfever symptoms, which include:
-Sneezing
-Blocked or runny nose
-Itchy, red, or watery eyes
-Coughing
-Itchy throat, mouth, nose or ears
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Can Honey Really Help with Hayfever?
The idea behind using local honey for hayfever is similar to the concept of a natural allergy shot. Because local honey contains trace amounts of pollen from the surrounding environment, eating it regularly is thought to help your body build up a tolerance—reducing your sensitivity over time.
While more scientific research is needed, many people report positive results from taking a spoonful of local honey daily in the run-up to hayfever season.
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Why Local Honey Works Best...
Not all honey is created equal. Here’s why local honey for hayfever is the best option:
Contains local pollen: Your body gets used to the specific pollens you're reacting to.
Unprocessed and natural: Unlike most supermarket honey, local honey hasn’t been ultra-filtered or heat-treated, so it retains beneficial enzymes and trace pollens.
Supports local beekeepers: Choosing local also means you're supporting small businesses and ethical beekeeping.
If you’re in Yorkshire or Lancashire, our Herd & Hive Yorkshire honey is a great choice to try.
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When and How to Take Honey for Hayfever Relief
To give your body time to adjust, start taking a spoonful of local honey a day several weeks before hayfever season starts. Some tips:
Stir into a warm (not hot!) herbal tea
Drizzle over porridge or yoghurt
Spread on toast in the morning
Take a spoonful straight off the spoon
Consistency is key—daily use is what many people find most effective.
What Kind of Honey Should You Use?
When choosing honey for hayfever, look for:
Local honey – from bees in your area
Unprocessed or minimally filtered – to retain pollen and enzymes
Single-source or wildflower – which may contain a variety of local pollens
Avoid cheap supermarket blends that are often imported and heavily processed. They may taste sweet but won’t offer the same potential benefits
Customer Testimonials
We hear it all the time from our customers:
“I’ve taken Herd & Hive honey every morning for a few years now. My hayfever used to be unbearable—now it’s barely noticeable.” – Emma, Skipton
“Your honey has been a lifesaver! I’ve tried tablets and sprays, but this is the only thing that’s actually made a difference.” – James, Colne
Final Thoughts: Can Honey Cure Hayfever?
While honey isn’t a guaranteed cure, it’s a natural remedy that many people find helpful. Plus, it’s delicious, completely natural, and packed with other benefits like antioxidants and antimicrobial properties.
If you’re looking for a simple way to support your body through allergy season, try adding a spoonful of local honey to your daily routine. Your immune system might just thank you!
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Where to Buy Local Honey for Hayfever
You can order our Honey online or pick it up from our honesty boxes across Yorkshire and Lancashire. Made by our own bees and jarred by hand, it's as local and natural as it gets.