Q I really suffer every summer with hay fever. It makes me want to take days off work and socialise less as I'm constantly blowing my nose and my eyes go all puffy. I can't stand it! It's really embarrassing and I look terrible. Can you help?

A Well, first of all you're not alone. Hay fever is one of the most common allergies us Brits tend to suffer with.

But you do sound like you could really benefit from visiting a complimentary therapist such as a homeopath, herbalist or acupuncturist as these treatments can increase your overall health while strengthening your level of resistance to hay fever causing pollen.

For over the counter natural remedies you could drink herbal infusions of nettle, eyebright and elderflower. These herbs are fantastic for clearing congestion and relieving irritated eyes and sinuses (Neal's Yard Remedies stock this tasty herbal tea).

You could also try homeopathy. Commonly used remedies to treat hay fever symptoms include:

Allium Cepa Best for eyes that stream; frequent sneezing and feeling worse in the morning and indoors.

Euphrasia Great for symptoms affecting the eyes such as burning, itching and watering, and a runny nose with much sneezing.

Mixed Pollen This general remedy aids allergic responses to pollen.

Nat Mur Helps when there is lots of catarrh and sneezing, often with cold sores or mouth ulcers.

Take 1 dose of 30c potency 3-6 times a day until symptoms improve.

To make an appointment with Zoe call 0161 835 1713.