Hay fever caused by pollen can be extremely uncomfortable. That's why we want to tell you about the 5 best natural remedies for treating pollen allergies, all of which are backed by research.
Many people suffer from hay fever when they breathe in certain particles, such as pollen. When this happens, their bodies release chemicals, which results in bothersome allergies. So, if you’re looking for natural remedies for pollen allergies, you’ve come to the right place.
In the article below, we’ll share the 5 best natural remedies that you can use to treat pollen-induced hay fever. Various studies back up their effectiveness, meaning you can use them in addition to medical treatments.
The 5 best natural remedies for pollen allergies
1. Probiotics, some of the best natural remedies for pollen allergies
Probiotic foods help reestablish intestinal flora, which has a modulating effect on the immune system.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has spoken positively about probiotics. These live microorganisms improve intestinal microbiota and promote overall health when administered in adequate amounts.
First of all, scientific findings have demonstrated that probiotics may be a useful therapeutic remedy for treating allergies to pollen and other substances. However, their effectiveness depends on several factors, such as the type of bacteria, dose, and nutrition.
Scientists are still investigating which probiotic strain is most effective in preventing and treating these allergies. However, research as already demonstrated that they can help to relieve symptoms in both children and adults.
Besides being able to take them as supplements, some foods are rich in probiotics. These include kefir, sauerkraut, kombucha, and other foods that are the result of a natural fermentation process.
Discover more about probiotics: What Are the Benefits of Eating Fermented Foods?
2. Quercetin
In second place we have quercetin, a type of polyphenol, or, in other words, and antioxidant. Quercetin is present in certain foods, such as onions, broccoli, apples, pears, green team, and wine.
This substance is effective against allergies because it stimulates the immune system, inhibiting the release of histamine and reducing inflammatory properties. Therefore, it’s not only one of the best natural remedies for pollen allergies, but it also helps in the case of asthma and certain anaphylactic reactions. In fact, many allergy relieving pharmaceuticals and supplements contain quercetin extract.
3. Licorice root for treating pollen allergies
The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root has proven to have a immunomodulating effect that can improve allergic processes.
Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, an active ingredient with anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antitumoral, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective properties. In fact, the most recent investigations also mention its immunomodulating virtues.
Consuming licorice roots could relieve the symptoms of pollen allergies, including sneezing and nasal congestion. However, this remedy can also raise arterial pressure. Therefore, if you suffer from high blood pressure, then you should only take licorice root under the supervision of a medical professional. Or, try a different option from today’s list of natural remedies for pollen allergies.
Today, there are several ways to consume licorice root, such as candies, lozenges, infusions, extract, etc. Or, you can choose the old fashioned method of chewing on a piece of licorice root to extract its components more simply.
4. Nettle, one of the best natural remedies for pollen allergies
The leaves of this medicinal plant contain serotonin, acetylcholine, and histamine. This last component may surprise you and even cause you to doubt. However, different techniques based on this compound have already been used intravenously for different conditions.
In fact, studies demonstrate that the most serious allergic reactions have to do with low levels of histamine in blood plasma. Therefore, this compound may be a natural solution when it comes to pollen allergies.
There are many ways to take nettle. For example, capsules, nettle extract, tablets, homeopathic medicines, etc. You can also consume it in soups, juices, and smoothing. However, you shouldn’t neglect to practice proper precautions if you choose to harvest it yourself.
5. Spirulina
This alga, whether in powder or tablet form, is effective in relieving the typical symptoms of allergic reactions.
Spirulina is an alga that’s gaining popularity as a nutritional supplement thanks to its complete and varied components. It’s an excellent natural remedy for preventing some of the most common deficiencies.
What’s more, spirulina helps regulate the immune system and relieve the mucus, congestion, itching, and sneezing that characterize pollen allergies. Also, it reduces levels of histamine and immunoglobulins that take part in allergic processes.
You can find spirulina as a powder as well as in tablet form. In general, the recommended beginning dose is between 3 and 5 grams. However, we recommend only taking it under medical supervision.
So, now you know the 5 best natural remedies for pollen allergies, both for their treatment and prevention. We recommend talking to your doctor to discuss the best way to accompany your treatment and improve your quality of life.
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
Yang, G., Liu, Z. Q., & Yang, P. C. (2013). Treatment of allergic rhinitis with probiotics: An alternative approach. North American Journal of Medical Sciences. https://doi.org/10.4103/1947-2714.117299
Mlcek, J., Jurikova, T., Skrovankova, S., & Sochor, J. (2016). Quercetin and its anti-allergic immune response. Molecules. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules21050623
Li, X. L., Zhou, A. G., Zhang, L., & Chen, W. J. (2011). Antioxidant status and immune activity of glycyrrhizin in allergic rhinitis mice. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms12020905
Resnick, E. S., Bielory, B. P., & Bielory, L. (2008). Complementary therapy in allergic rhinitis. Current Allergy and Asthma Reports. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11882-008-0021-y
This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.
