NHS GP’s ‘weird’ ways to ditch hay fever including little-known ‘vaseline trick’

NHS GP’s ‘weird’ ways to ditch hay fever including little-known ‘vaseline trick’The expert shared some hay fever solutions that don’t involve medicationsCommentsNewsSamantha Leathers Senior Money & Lifestyle writer00:38, 12 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesMillions of people in the UK suffer from hayfever(Image: GETTY)Hay fever affects around 16 million people in the UK, many of which have likely experienced the first of their annual springtime symptoms as the Met Office issued a red alert for nine areas earlier this week and more pollen highs are expected as the season continues.‌An NHS GP is urging hay fever sufferers to add some different tools to their bag of treatments this year alongside the antihistamines and nasal sprays. Dr Asimah Hanif explained some stranger tricks and hacks that can help keep the spring allergens at bay even when you have to be venturing outside.‌Smear vaseline around your noseThe GP explained: “It's a simple barrier method, but it can be surprisingly effective, especially if you're heading outside on a high-pollen day. The NHS recommends it for a reason.‌“Just apply a small amount to the rim of each nostril before going out, and wipe and reapply when you come back in."This thin layer can physically trap pollen and other airborne allergens before it gets a chance to enter your airways and cause a reaction. Some pharmacies may even offer dedicated allergy barrier balms if you don’t want to use Vaseline.READ MORE: Gastroenterologist says rule of 'three' can add years to your lifeREAD MORE: Brits doing spring clean issued urgent 'toxic' warning for these cleaning productsQuercetinRed onions, capers, apples and berries are some of the foods with high levels of quercetin. This is a plant flavonoid that has been shown to inhibit the release of histamine within your body, which is what causes hay fever symptoms.‌Dr Asimah said: "Quercetin works a bit like a natural antihistamine. It doesn't act as quickly as...