Now is the time of year when many people suffer with hay fever. The itchy eyes, runny nose and constant sneezing can be most unpleasant. Luckily, today we have efficacious anti-histamines (available not only for humans, but pets too!) and which also treat a number of other allergies. Of course, sadly they don’t work for everyone and certainly a visit to the coast or the Scottish heathlands should help. With regard to the suggestion that snuff be used – do not try this at home!
“Hay Fever, which, again has so many victims in its distressing grip, was long ago tackled in a very systematic manner by the Americans. Half-a-century ago a Hay Fever society was formed by a company of habitual sufferers, and applied itself to discovery of a means of prevention or cure of the malady. One conclusion arrived at was that in certain parts of the States residents were almost immune. In this country the problem had exercised the minds of members of the faculty, and zonal immunity appears to be a theory for which there is something to be said, the seaside, particularly if the patient avoid glare, being regarded as the best place for treatment. A high altitude – say, 1000 feet above sea level – is also recommended, and a gravel soil is said to afford alleviation. If means don’t allow of any of these courses of treatment, however, try snuff. If may have its objections, but it certainly is efficacious.”
The Stamford Mercury, 1st July, 1927.