Relieve Allergies with 7 Natural Antihistamines
The first step in relieving allergies is following your doctor’s orders. In addition, according to popular belief, there are certain home remedies that can also help to calm uncomfortable symptoms. Would you like to learn more about the most commonly recommended natural antihistamines? Keep reading!
Allergies are your immune system’s response to external agents such as pollen or mites. They trigger the production of a protein known as histamine, which is the leading cause of symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, itching, and more.
While the production of this protein isn’t the only factor that triggers such reactions, consuming natural antihistamines can provide a partial solution for all your discomfort. You can obtain a variety of formulations and brands in pharmacies, while others are only offered by prescription.
Veamos a continuación algunas opciones que, según la sabiduría popular, pueden brindar contribuir con el bienestar y el alivio.
Today we want to look at other options that, according to popular belief, may contribute to relief and wellbeing.
1. Green tea
The claims regarding this substance point to its significant content of quercetin and catechin, two substances that act as antioxidants to decrease the release of histamine. Therefore, many consider green tea to be a sort of natural antihistamine.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of green tea (10 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
How do you make it?
- Add the green tea to a cup of boiling water and let it steep for 10 minutes. Consume this tea at the first sign of an allergy.
- Avoid drinking more than three cups a day.
Do not forget to read: Can Green Tea Really Help You Lose Weight?
2. Nettle tea
Many also recommend nettle tea as a remedy for controlling allergy symptoms and therefore we’re including it on our list of natural antihistamines. According to claims, its properties reduce the presence of allergens in the airways and calm congestion.
Nettle tea is another natural remedy to help you quickly control your allergy symptoms.
Its properties decrease the presence of allergens in your airways and relieve congestion.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of nettle (10 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
How do you make it?
- Add the nettle to the water, bring it to a boil, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- When it’s ready, let it steep and drink this up to two times a day.
- Don’t take nettle tea if you’re taking blood pressure medication or are pregnant.
3. Fruits with vitamin C–natural antihistamines you can eat
It’s best to eat citrus fruits whole and in their natural state in order to make the most of their nutrients. However, some prefer to consume them in the form of juices, smoothies, and other preparations.
4. Rooibos tea
Rooibos tea, also known as African red tea, is a beverage with natural antihistamines that slows down congestion and alleviates a burning or itchy throat.
Because it’s 100% natural, it won’t cause drowsiness like many of the medications that are prescribed for the same purpose.
Ingredients
- 1 rooibos tea bag
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
How do you make it?
- Bring the water to a boil and add the teabag. Let it steep for a few minutes.
- Drink this at the first sign of allergies.
5. Plain yogurt
The live cultures and natural antihistamines found in plain yogurt help improve your bacterial flora and strengthen the function of your immune system. Substances such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidus have been linked to a decreased risk of allergies. So, consider eating yogurt on a regular basis in order to stay healthy.
6. Alfalfa tea
According to popular belief, drinking alfalfa tea can help alleviate that burning sensation in your eyes and excess mucus in your nose.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of alfalfa (10 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
How do you make it?
- Add the alfalfa to a pot of water and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Allow it to steep and strain off the liquid before consuming.
- Drink this tea once a day.
7. Ginkgo biloba tea
In the past, people recommended inhaling the steam from ginkgo leaf infusions to alleviate asthma, bronchitis, and cough. Today, popular belief holds that ginkgo biloba–thanks to its medicinal properties–is also a natural antihistamine that may offer relief.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of dried ginkgo biloba (10 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
How do you make it?
- Place the ginkgo biloba in a saucepan with water and heat over low heat until it boils.
- Remove it from the heat, pour it through a strainer, and drink two cups a day.
What to keep in mind before trying any of these remedies
Before starting any treatments based on medicinal plants (infusions, etc.), it’s important to consult with a health professional. Keep in mind that, in order for phytotherapeutic treatments to work, you need to use them correctly. Therefore, talking with your doctor beforehand is fundamental.
Natural antihistamines–and home remedies in general–are never a substitute for the indications given by your doctor. In any case, they can be considered an accompaniment to treatment, as long as your doctor authorizes them.
Finally, keep in mind that you shouldn’t ingest several of these remedies at the same time, as the effects may be counterproductive.
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.
- 10 Proven Benefits of Green Tea
healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-green-tea
- Van Beek A. (2000). Ginkgo Biloba (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Industrial Profiles), CRC Press. p.37.
