Herbal Remedies for Spring Allergies

Spring is on its way. Are you planning on enjoying the bright sunshine and the blooming flowers, or are you going to stay at home with windows closed to prevent the threat lurking in the breeze wind? For many people, spring allergy can be a killjoy that ruins all your beautiful expectations as it causes symptoms like congestion, headache, sneezing, irritated eyes, and even severe respiratory problems like asthma in some cases. But don’t be too frustrated. There is always a way out no matter what the problem is.

As you may already know, allergic responses are the overreaction of your immune system when you contact what you are allergic to. According to the CDCP (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), although allergies are hard to prevent, the reactions and symptoms of allergies can be managed. The methods can include medication, immunotherapy, nasal irrigation, and oxygen therapy, among which medication is the most commonly used. However, these medicines usually come with many side effects. But don’t worry, on most occasions, you can switch to natural supplements with no side effects for help. Here are some suggestions on effective herbal remedies you can have for allergy relief.

Nettle

Nettle grows in temperate regions around the world. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine and as a food source. It has been used to treat different kinds of ailments, including arthritis, allergies, and eczema.

Nettle leaves are rich in nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron and calcium. They can be eaten as a cooked vegetable or used to make tea. Nettle tea is believed to have many health benefits, including helping to reduce inflammation, boosting the immune system, and improving digestive health.

Eyebright

Eyebright is a small flowering plant native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It has been used for centuries to treat a variety of eye problems, including conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and styes, and is therefore called eyebright. Its flowers, leaves, and stem contain several compounds, including flavonoids and iridoid glycosides, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Eyebright is typically used in the form of an herbal tea or as a liquid extract, and it is also found in some eye drops and ointments.

Butterbur

Butterburis can treat a variety of ailments including headaches, allergies, and asthma. It contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects and can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches. But it is important to note that raw butterbur contains chemicals called pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be toxic to the liver and can cause serious health problems. Therefore, it is essential to only use butterbur products that have been processed to remove these chemicals.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It is believed to have a wide range of health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and heart disease. Turmeric can be consumed in a variety of forms, including as a spice in cooking, as tea, or as a dietary supplement.

Ginger

Ginger is a plant widely used as a spice and medicinal herb. Ginger contains many gingerols and has lots of health benefits, including reducing nausea and vomiting, relieving pain and inflammation, improving digestion, and boosting the immune system. Ginger can easily fit into various kinds of diet plans for making cuisines or drinks, so it is a good choice for daily health care.

Garlic

Histamines are the chemicals that the body releases in response to allergens, causing symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. While Garlic contains quercetin, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine effects. Antihistamines help to block the effects of histamines and can reduce allergy symptoms. Additionally, garlic has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which may help to strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of infections that can exacerbate allergy symptoms. There are too many ways to incorporate garlic into your diet. You can eat it raw, cooked, roasted, or use it as a seasoning for anything you like.

Licorice

Licorice is rich in glycyrrhizin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant effects. Licorice has been used for treating various ailments, including digestive problems, respiratory infections, and skin conditions. It is also helpful in reducing inflammation, boosting the immune system, and protecting against liver damage. Licorice is often used as an ingredient in candy and other sweets. It can also be consumed as a tea, or as a supplement.

It is worth mentioning that any of the herbs above should be taken adequately. Consuming large amounts of them or taking them for an extended period can lead to some side effects. Besides, some of them may cause allergies in certain people or interact with certain medications and foods. Therefore, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before using these herbs, especially if you have a history of medical problems or are taking medications that may interact with them.