This Morning: Liz Earle gives hay fever remedy recommendations
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This summer the UK has been hit by a ‘pollen bomb’ causing millions of hay fever sufferers to experience the worst symptoms ever and new data reveals nearly 50 percent of UK adults are currently affected. These people can’t risk worsening their symptoms with a bouquet, so it’s important to pick your flowers wisely to avoid this. Express.co.uk chatted to the head florist at Interflora Vicky Salmon to find out the 6 best flowers for hayfever sufferers.
If you’ve got hayfever, you might already know to steer clear of lilies!
These flowers aren’t only toxic to some of our furry friends, they’re extremely irritating for people who suffer from hayfever.
Vicky said: “Lilies are regarded as the worst flowers for hay fever sufferers due to the high pollen count within their stamen.
“Whilst the stamen can be cut to reduce the effect of the pollen we recommend avoiding them altogether if you suffer from allergies.
“The pollen within lillies is also harmful to animals, making lily-free bouquet options pet-safe and ideal as a gift for those with four-legged friends.”
So what flowers can you have around the house if you have hayfever?
The 6 best flowers for hayfever sufferers
Antirrhinum (Snapdragons)
This traditional favourite is a safe choice for hay fever sufferers as the tightly closed buds minimise the release of pollen, according to Vicky.
She explained: “These blooms provide nectar for bumblebees who are one of the few insects that are able to ‘open’ the flower.
“Antirrhinums will also add height to any design – arrange them with round-headed summer blooms to create a gorgeous display for your mantelpiece.”
Peony
Who doesn’t love a beautiful bouquet of peonies? They’re even safe for hayfever sufferers.
Vicky said: “You’ll be pleased to know that the large, luxurious taffeta-like flower heads of the peony will give you the joys of the season without setting off the sneezes!
“This Instagram-worthy bloom is a reliable choice as it is pollinated by insects rather than the wind.”
Rose
Roses are the national flower of England and the world’s favourite bloom, so you’ll be happy to find out that they’re totally hayfever-safe!
Vicky said: “This classic beauty can be enjoyed by all as roses only release small amounts of pollen into the air.
“With a huge range of colours and varieties, this symbol of love is the perfect choice to send to hay fever sufferers.
“Top tip – opt for the tight-budded varieties to further minimise pollen exposure.”
Gladiolus
Another safe choice this season is gladioli, which originate from South Africa and are said to symbolise generosity.
Vicky said: “This bloom’s pollen is thick and sticky, meaning they are commonly pollinated by bees, rather than the wind.
“The tall stems come in a wide range of beautiful colours and will certainly brighten any home or garden.”
Astrantia
Astrantia is a pretty, delicate star-shaped flower that will add texture to any bouquet, making it a very popular choice for spring and summer weddings, according to Vicky.
The florist said: “Astrantia was first cultivated in Britain in the 16th century and became a cottage garden favourite, which can also be found growing in the wild.
“The great news is they rate low on the allergy scale, so there’s no need to be afraid of that hay fever headache.”
Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are stunning blooms and are also insect-pollinated, making them another safe option this summer for those with hayfever.
Vicky explained: “Hydrangeas come in shades of blue, pink and white and are said to carry the meaning, ‘thank you for understanding’.
“Did you know, their dried leaves are used to make a sweet tea called Ama-cha in Japan, which is prepared each year to celebrate Buddha’s birthday?”
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