6 Effective Natural Antihistamines For Relief From Allergic Reactions

Seasonal allergies are known to cause havoc on the body’s systems. You start suffering from itchy and red eyes, sneezing, congestion, and sinus pressure. Some people also get terrible headaches. All these symptoms trouble a person so much that soon it becomes unbearable to tolerate. To combat allergies of any kind, doctors generally prescribe antihistamines to suppress the immune response taking place. Histamine is a protein that leads to inflammation, irritation, and redness of allergies. The protein is produced when there is any kind of a trigger that irritates the immune system, be it environmental or dietary.

When these triggers, known as antigens, come in contact with the body, it causes the immune system to mark it as a foreign invader and begin producing antibodies against it. It is these antibodies that release histamine into your bloodstream to increase the body’s sensitivity to avoid repeated exposure. Antihistamine medication work to provide relief from allergy symptoms by suppressing histamine production in your body. However, there is no need to take antihistamine medication to fight against allergic triggers. There are many natural foods and plant extracts that produce a similar effect on histamine production. It is a good idea to opt for these natural antihistamines first, before turning to conventional medications.

How Do Antihistamines Work?

Before looking at these natural antihistamines, we must first understand how antihistamines work in suppressing the immune response to allergens. Antihistamines inhibit the actions of the protein histamine, which is a protein released when the body reacts to a foreign substance, known as an allergen. The antihistamine works by blocking the function of histamine, thus reducing inflammation, itching, coughs and colds, stomach cramps, headaches, and any other immune responses from the allergen.

You will be surprised to know that the conventional antihistamine medication actually has quite a few side effects. They are also one of the primary ingredients used in cough syrups, sleeping pills, and motion sickness pills. Some of the main side effects of the chemical version of antihistamines are:

  • Drowsiness
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Slow reaction time

Therefore, before opting to use the chemical antihistamines, why not try out these natural antihistamines first.

6 Effective Natural Antihistamines For Relief From Allergic Reactions

6 Effective Natural Antihistamines For Relief From Allergic Reactions

We look at some herbs that are known to have a variety of benefits and medicinal properties as well as antihistamine properties and are effective in providing relief from allergic reactions.

Evening Primrose

This herb is commonly used to treat menstrual problems, Evening Primrose is rich in magnesium, iron, and potassium. This herb is usually used in the form of either supplements or oil. The oil is known to be an effective natural antihistamine which can provide relief from skin allergies that cause an itchy rash and even in hives. Evening Primrose oil contains high amounts of omega-6 essential fatty acids and this helps people suffering from allergies as fatty acids are one of the major components of cell membranes and they help maintain the skin’s barrier function. Many studies have shown that omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential in helping the skin retain moisture and gives a smoother appearance.

Nettles Leaf

The nettle leaf is known to be a natural antihistamine and is capable of naturally blocking the production of histamine in the body. The leaf can be turned into a tincture or tea. For getting more relief from allergies, taking capsules made from dried nettle leaves are a better option.

Quercetin

Quercetin, a natural antihistamine, is found in apples, onions, and several other fruits and vegetables. It is an antioxidant and many studies have shown the successful effects of quercetin. A study has even shown that quercetin reduces the respiratory side effects that are commonly associated with allergies. Quercetin can be used as a supplement or simply by consuming quercetin-rich foods.

Bromelain

Bromelain is found naturally in pineapples and is also available in the form of a supplement. Bromelain is known to be effective natural antihistamine which can be useful in treating respiratory distress caused by allergic reactions as well as reduce inflammation associated with such allergies. It is suggested that you take 400-500 mg of bromelain three times a day.

Butterbur

Butterbur is known to rival even the leading over-the-counter medications that lower histamine reactions in the body, making it useful natural antihistamine. The herb is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and also reduces spasms in muscles and relaxes the inflammation of nasal membranes.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the easiest natural antihistamines to find. It is easily found in many fruits and vegetables such as citrus fruits, guava, red sweet peppers, kiwi, grapefruits, etc. It is also found in a supplement form. It is free from side effects and is also non-toxic so it is the safest solution to use for getting relief from a stuffy nose and other symptoms of allergies. Doctors recommended taking at least 2 grams per day to achieve the best results.

Conclusion

There are just some options that are effective in reducing histamine reactions in the body. It becomes frustrating to deal with symptoms of seasonal allergies. By using these natural antihistamines and by exercising proper care, you will be able to get some relief from your symptoms.

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Team PainAssist
Team PainAssist
Written, Edited or Reviewed By: Team PainAssist, Pain Assist Inc. This article does not provide medical advice. See disclaimer
Last Modified On:March 20, 2018

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