Natural products for allergies
People with allergies can find relief by using natural allergy products that act as antihistamines. Natural antihistamines are substances that block the activity of histamine in the body.
Seasonal allergies are often treated by reducing symptoms with various pharmaceutical antihistamines. The problem is that these medications don't resolve allergies and are fraught with many side effects, such as mild allergy dependence, dehydration, headache, dry mouth, drowsiness, digestive issues, and/or brain fog. Most of the time, it's more effective to address the root cause of allergies and strengthen the immune system instead.
Natural antihistamines and allergy products
Some allergens are difficult to avoid. In that case, after discussing your symptoms with a doctor, you might consider a home remedy. Some natural remedies for food or respiratory allergies include:
Vitamin C
Vitamin C stimulates the immune system. It also acts as a natural antihistamine; being a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it is one of the best remedies for respiratory allergies.
Aside from the vitamin C supplements available in stores, you can also find them in many fruits and vegetables, including: Peppers, Melon, Cauliflower, Citrus, Kiwi, Strawberries, Tomatoes, Pumpkin...
Butterbur
Butterbur is a plant extract from a shrub that grows in Asia, Europe, and parts of North America. People often use butterbur to treat migraines and allergic rhinitis.
Most people tolerate butterbur well, but it can cause side effects such as breathing difficulties, diarrhea, or fatigue, so it's important to consult your doctor before taking it.
Bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme found in the core and juice of pineapples, but is also available as a supplement in herbal stores. It is positioned as a popular natural remedy for swelling or inflammation, especially of the sinuses and after injury or surgery. It can also reduce allergic sensitization thanks to its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy properties.
Spirula
Dietary spirulina, a blue-green algae, has demonstrated anti-allergy protective effects against allergic rhinitis, providing a large number of macronutrients.
Probiotics
Probiotics are microorganisms that may offer health benefits by helping the body maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Probiotics can boost a person's immune system, which helps the body fight allergies.
Quercetin
Quercetin is found in a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, especially leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, leeks, and scallions. It is a bioflavonoid that moderates the production and release of histamine.
It has been tested in numerous clinical trials and has been shown to reduce airway irritation while improving overall health. In concentrated doses, it can help control severe anaphylactic reactions to certain foods, such as peanuts.
Other natural products for allergies
Astragalus
Grape seed extract
Omega-3 fatty acids
Nettle
Honey
In conclusion, living with allergies can be challenging , especially when symptoms are at their worst, such as in the spring. However, avoiding allergy triggers is often the first line of defense against symptoms. Try to identify the allergen, which could be pollen, pet dander, or mold spores, and reduce your exposure as much as possible.
If you can't avoid them, the natural products mentioned above have antihistamine properties, meaning they can break down the chemicals that cause allergy symptoms and thus relieve your discomfort without the need for non-natural medications.