If you deal with seasonal allergies, you understand that they can be quite annoying. You sneeze uncontrollably, develop itchy eyes, experience congestion for hours, and the sinus pressure can become quite annoying. Symptoms may result from hay fever, seasonal allergies, or allergic rhinitis. If you are like most people who deal with allergies, you probably use numerous over-the-counter (OTC) medications to combat the symptoms. Some of those medications, however, can have a long list of their own side effects.
If you are ready to leave the OTC medications behind and experiment with natural solutions, you may be in luck. Some evidence indicates that natural solutions may relieve or reduce the severity of symptoms. If you have an understanding of the way antihistamines work, you can determine whether natural antihistamines will help with seasonal allergies.
How Do Antihistamines Work?
An allergic reaction is the immune system’s response to an otherwise harmless substance. That substance can be pollen, animal dander, dust, or mildew. Such a substance comes in contact with the cellist the mucous membranes in the nose, mouth, throat, or lungs. If you have allergies, the immune system releases histamine, a chemical that causes sneezing, itching, and other allergy symptoms.
Antihistamines work to block histamine activity in order to stop the allergic reaction. According to research, many vitamins, minerals, and plants can block the effects of histamine. Continue reading to learn more about these natural antihistamines.
Probiotics
Probiotics are microorganisms that can help improve your gut microbiome. They feed the healthy bacteria in the gut, which can help improve immune function. A 2021 review found that probiotics may help reduce and even prevent allergy symptoms. The same review suggests that probiotics may help alleviate symptoms of asthma and atopic dermatitis. Some great probiotics to consume include:
- Sauerkraut
- Kombucha
- Tempeh
- Kimchi
- Natto
Quercetin
You can find this natural antioxidant in grapefruit, okra, onions, apples, and other produce items. It is also available in supplement form, which is where you may have seen it. It is one of the most abundant antioxidants in the diet and helps to reduce inflammation, blood pressure, and the severity of allergy symptoms. A 2022 study found that quercetin may act as an antihistamine, working to reduce allergy symptoms.
Bromelain
Commonly found in pineapples, bromelain is a compound that causes the body to make substances that fight swelling and pain. Studies have shown that bromelain is effective at reducing inflammation from sprains, tendinitis, and other muscle injuries. Regarding allergies, bromelain may help relieve respiratory symptoms associated with allergic reactions. A 2023 analysis found that bromelain proved effective against sinusitis.
Stinging Nettle
This flowering plant originated in Asian and Western Northern Africa. There is both some positive and neutral evidence surrounding stinging nettle as an effective antihistamine. One study from 2009 found that stinging nettle helped reduce allergy symptoms. A 2017 study, however, found nettle to act similarly to a placebo pill. More research is necessary to understand whether this plant is an effective antihistamine.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is readily available in myriad plant-based foods. Some of the best sources include bell peppers, kiwis, guavas, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and berries. A 2023 review found that vitamin C helped improve symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing and itching.
Butterbur Bonus
As a bonus natural antihistamine option, we bring you butterbur. This marsh plant, which belongs to the daisy family, may be effective at reducing the intensity and frequency of migraine attacks. A 2023 study reported that it may be a safe and effective natural treatment for people with seasonal allergic rhinitis.
