HAY FEVER - WHAT'S THE ALTERNATIVE? It's that time of year again when hay fever makes so many of us so miserable - and this year's unseasonably warm weather is seeing a doubling of hay fever cases in the UK. Indeed, many experts believe that northern Europe is likely to be among the regions worst hit by the increase in allergies - partly because cold winters that previously kept pollen producing plants at bay are becoming less common. Hay fever is now recognised as the most common form of allergy in the UK, affecting up to 25% of the population and making summer a misery for at least 15 million people - many of whom never having been affected before. Global warming means that summer is now starting earlier and may end later - which means allergy sufferers must endure the condition for longer. Most hay fever sufferers are sensitive to grass pollens - with the allergic reaction to pollen causing inflammation and irritation to the lining of the eyes, nose and throat. As well as causing itchy eyes, runny or stuffed-up nose, sneezing and sore throat, hay fever can worsen other allergy-related conditions such as eczema or asthma and cause difficulty sleeping. Help at hand from The Nutri Centre Fortunately, there's effective help at hand - with anti allergy products from The Nutri Centre, the UK's leading resource for natural remedies. According to The Nutri Centre, there are two powerful supplements and a natural remedy that can prevent or alleviate allergic reactions that cause hay fever. Quercitin-C by Cardiovascular Research is a powerful antihistamine formulation containing quercitin, catechin and vitamin C - which all quench free radicals and reduce the release of histamine. Histamine is a substance that contributes to allergy symptoms such as a runny nose, watery eyes, hives and swelling of soft tissue including the face and lips. Quercitin inhibits the production and release of histamine and other allergic/inflammatory substances - and also works as an antioxidant against damaging particles in the body, known as free radicals. Another beneficial supplement for hay fever sufferers is Reishi Mushrooms - which has anti-allergic and anti inflammatory properties that inhibit histamine release. It works as an antioxidant against free radicals. Last but not least to battle hay fever is Oralmat drops, which are taken under the tongue. This natural, herbal remedy contains a rye grass extract - to help boost and modulate your immune system and fight allergens and irritants that trigger inflammatory and respiratory problems. Oralmat drops are rapidly absorbed into the mucous membranes of the mouth, giving fast relief from asthma, bronchitis, rhinitis, sinusitis and other inflammatory problems. Quercitin-C by Cardiovascular Research - normally retails at £11.95 for 90 Capsules. The special Care Directions' price is £11.45 Reishi Mushrooms by Mycology Research Laboratories (MRL) - normally retails at £18.95 for 90 tablets. The special Care Directions' price is £17.99 Oralmat Drops by The Rye Way - normally retails at £24.99 for 10ml. The special Care Directions' price is £23.99 CARE DIRECTIONS' DISCOUNT ORDERING • ONLINE: You can find more product details and order at the special discount prices, at this online order link. • BY TELEPHONE: If ordering by telephone, be sure to mention 'CARE DIRECTIONS PROMOTION' to obtain the discount prices. 0800 5872290 • IN STORE: You can also download discount vouchers from the Care Directions' web site, to use for instore purchases - at The Nutri Centre stores in Central London, Bournemouth, Slough, Milton Keynes, Newcastle and Pitsea. For full details, click here.