5 Natural Antihistamines To Deal With Allergies For Good

People with allergies can find relief by using natural plant and food extracts that act as antihistamines. In this post, we will outline five natural antihistamines to deal with allergies for good, and take a look at the science behind them.

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Histamine is a protein that triggers allergy symptoms such as scratchy throat, itchy eyes, skin rashes and sneezing.

Therefore, antihistamines are substances that block the activity of histamine in the body.

There are plenty of prescription antihistamines and over-the-counter medications that are effective for symptom relief but can cause side effects, such as nausea and drowsiness.

Those who suffer from allergies may want to try some natural antihistamines alternatives to tackle the problem without exchanging symptoms for even more undesirable side effects, which is not only possible but also highly advisable.

In the next paragraphs, we’ll show you how.

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5 Natural Antihistamines

1. Vitamin C

In addition to strengthening the immune system, Vitamin C also acts as a natural antihistamine.

According to a 2018 study on vitamin C in allergy treatment, stress plays a key role in allergic diseases.

As vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it can act as a treatment for allergies as well.

Researchers reported that a vitamin C deficiency could lead to allergy-related illnesses and found that high doses of intravenous vitamin C reduced allergy symptoms. 

Another study from 2000 recommends taking 2 grams of vitamin C daily to obtain its antihistamine effects.

2. Butterbur

Often used to treat migraines, hay fever, and allergic rhinitis, Butterbur is a plant extract from a shrub that grows in Europe, Asia and some parts of North America.

According to the National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), butterbur may have antihistamine effects.

A 2007 review of 16 randomised controlled trials, testing 10 herbal products, suggests that butterbur might be an effective herbal treatment for hay fever.

This review suggested that butterbur was better than a placebo, or as effective as antihistamine medications, in relieving allergy symptoms.

Butterbur is well tolerated by most people, according to the NCCIH, but it can cause side effects such as breathing difficulties, diarrhoea, drowsiness, fatigue, headache and itchy eyes.

The plant extract may also cause allergic reactions in people with sensitivities to chrysanthemums, ragweed, marigolds and daisies.

Besides its antihistamine properties, raw butterbur extracts also contain certain compounds called alkaloids that can cause liver damage and cancer if used long-term.

Always consult a health practitioner before starting any treatment with this herb.

3. Bromelain

A popular natural remedy for swelling and inflammation, Bromelain is an enzyme found in the core and juice of pineapples and it’s found to be beneficial in the treatment of the sinuses and after injury or surgery.

Research in mice suggests that bromelain may reduce allergic sensitisation and allergic airway disease due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy properties.

In some people, oral bromelain supplementation can cause adverse reactions such as menstrual changes, digestive upset and an increased heart rate.

4. Probiotics

Probiotics are microorganisms that offer many health benefits by helping the body maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria.

Probiotics boost a person’s immune system, which helps the body to fight allergies in general.

The inclusion of probiotics in the daily diet is an important step to take when it comes to restoring deficiencies in an individual’s immunity and achieving optimal health. 

5. Quercetin

Quercetin is an antioxidant flavonoid found in several plants and foods.

Research suggests that adding quercetin to the daily diet may help relieve allergy symptoms due to its anti-allergy and antihistamine properties.

In a study with mice, researchers found that quercetin could reduce the respiratory effects of allergies by reducing airway inflammation.

Quercetin is naturally present in many foods and herbs including buckwheat tea, grapes, apples, berries, black tea, broccoli, peppers, red onions, ginkgo biloba, green tea, and red wine.

However, taking quercetin supplements will work better in treating allergies than eating foods that contain quercetin.

This is because the foods count with significantly lower levels of flavonoids.

Quercetin is generally safe for most people, but it was reported to cause headaches and tingling in the arms and legs of some people. Very high doses, especially when taken long-term, can cause kidney damage.

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Final Thoughts

Living with allergies can be daunting, especially when symptoms are at their worst.

The best advice is to practice good self-care techniques and consider the use of natural antihistamines.

These natural substances with antihistamine properties help to break down chemicals that cause allergy symptoms, which may offer some comfort.

For the best chance of relief, though, try to limit or avoid exposure to the allergen. 

Supplements and natural remedies can interfere with certain medications, it is essential to speak with a doctor before starting any treatment with a new supplement or herbal remedy.

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