Hay fever, also known as perennial allergic rhinitis, occurs when the immune system reacts to an allergen, like tree or grass pollen or fungus, causing sneezing, itchy eyes and a runny nose. The best way to prevent hay fever is to avoid airborne allergens by staying indoors and using an air conditioner. However, since this is not always possible, you may need to take an oral antihistamine or use a nasal corticosteroid spray to provide relief from symptoms. Some herbs may also help to relieve your symptoms, but evidence that they work is limited.
Butterbur
Butterbur may help to reduce mucus production and may be beneficial for hay fever sufferers, the University of Maryland Medical Center notes. The results of a randomised controlled trial by A. Schapowal published in the January 2002 issue of "BMJ" found that the effects of butterbur are similar to those of the antihistamine cetirizine in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Side effects may include stomach upset, diarrhea and fatigue, according to RxList. Make sure you choose a butterbur supplement that is certified free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, chemicals that may cause liver damage.
Stinging Nettle
UMMC notes that stinging nettle has been used as a traditional remedy for allergic rhinitis, but adds that studies to prove it is effective are lacking. Also known as Urtica diocica, stinging nettle contains a chemical called scopoletin, which may have anti-inflammatory effects. Side effects may include gastrointestinal upset, sweating, and a skin rash. It may also cause a hypersensitivity rash in some people and may heighten the effects of other drugs, including diclofenac and diuretics.
Alfalfa
Alfalfa, also known as Medicago sativa, is a popular treatment for hay fever, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes. However, studies examining its efficacy are lacking. RxList reports that while alfalfa is likely safe for most adults, consuming alfalfa seeds for a long period of time might not be safe. This herb is contraindicated in a number of conditions including hormone-sensitive conditions like ovarian and uterine cancer, immune disorders and diabetes. It also interacts with several other drugs including warfarin and the birth control pill.
Biminne
A Chinese herbal formula called biminne may also help to relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis, according to UMMC. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial by G. Hu et al. published in the May 2002 of the "Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology" found that 12 weeks of treatment with biminne improved symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Biminne combines a number of different herbs, all of which have the potential to cause side effects and interact with other drugs, so get medical advice before trying it.
