If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you will likely enjoy using natural remedies that won't knock you out like many common over-the-counter remedies. Several common herbs do a great job in battling allergy symptoms.
Definitions
Antihistamine - compounds that block the action of histamines, which can cause fever, itching, sneezing, a runny nose, and watery eyes. Antihistamines are used to treat allergies.
Anti-inflammatory - compounds that reduce inflammation (redness, swelling, and pain) in the body. Some anti-inflammatory agents block certain substances in the body that cause inflammation.
Bronchodilator - a substance that causes the small airways in the lungs to open up, making breathing easier. Expectorant - compounds that help thin, loosen, and remove mucus from the respiratory tract and sinuses.
Immunotherapy - exposure to a small amount of allergen, allowing the body to build a tolerance.
Watch Me Talk About Herbs for Allergies
10 Herbs for Allergies
There are many great herbs for treating allergies, but these are my favorites (in alphabetic order) and their main allergy-fighting properties:
Chamomile - antihistamine
Echinacea - antihistamine
Eucalyptus - bronchodilator
Garlic - antihistamine, expectorant
Ginger - antihistamine, bronchodilator, expectorant
Goldenrod - antihistamine, dries watery eyes and running nose
Horseradish - expectorant
Licorice Root* - anti-inflammatory, expectorant
Peppermint** - bronchodilator
Rosemary - anti-inflammatory, expectorant
Important Herbal Notes
*Licorice Root can raise blood pressure. If you suffer from high blood pressure, use it with caution and consult your doctor before ingesting.
**Peppermint can relax the esophageal sphincter, causing heartburn. If you suffer from GERD/Acid Reflux, you should avoid ingesting peppermint.
2 Additional "Almost" Herbs
These aren't actually herbs, but you will find them in every herbalist's apothecary.
Green Tea - antihistamine
Local Honey - thought to work via immunotherapy. At the very least, it coats & soothes a scratchy throat and eases cough.
Tasty Tea Combinations
You can create an endless combination of herbal teas using the herbs listed above. But a few of my favorite combinations are:
Chamomile, Echinacea, and Peppermint
Fresh Ginger Root, Lemon, and Honey
Green tea, Goldenrod, and Licorice Root
Rosemary tea
Let Your Food Be Your Medicine
Tea is not the only way to treat your allergies. Stock your kitchen with Garlic, Ginger, and Horseradish. All three of these are great for allergies, as well as cold and flu. Add these to your meals whenever possible. I often add minced garlic to a cheese spread and eat it on a cracker. Have a sandwich with horseradish. Use fresh ginger in your salad dressing or simply eat a thin slice before a meal (it will be spicy).
Consider making a batch of FIRE CIDER. Use the fire cider in salad dressings, or simply take a TBSP 2-3 times a day.
Essential Oils Can Be A Big Help Too
Place a drop of peppermint oil on your thumb, and then touch your thumb to the roof of your mouth (as far back as possible). This will instantly clear your sinuses!
You can also take a drop of peppermint oil or eucalyptus oil on the palm of your hands, rub your hands together, and then cup them over your nose and mouth and breathe in. This will clear your sinuses, your nostrils and open your lungs.
Note - essential oils are extremely strong. Therefore, caution should be taken to avoid getting oil near your eyes or other sensitive areas. If you have sensitive skin, be sure to dilute essential oil with a carrier oil. Also, not all essential oils can be ingested. Read the labeling and only use oil brands you trust.
Disclaimer
The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please be sure to research herbs and consult your medical care provider before using herbal medicine, particularly if you have a known medical condition or if you are pregnant or nursing. The information provided should not be considered healthy advice. You are responsible for consulting a medical professional before implementing a new herb or herbal remedy. Allergic reactions and interactions with prescription and over-the-counter medications can occur and can be serious.
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