Natural Herbs & Tea for Allergies

Natural Herbs & Tea for Allergies
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If your immune system reacts negatively to a foreign substance in the environment, you can develop allergies. Allergens are foreign substances that your immune system recognizes as harmful. In reaction to these substances, you may experience a reaction on your skin, or in your airways, digestive system, or sinuses. Allergies can trigger symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, hives, tingling mouth, cough, chest tightness, and rash. Taking specific herbs and teas may help prevent, relieve, or control your allergies. Consult a doctor before taking any herbal or supplement remedies and never replace other forms of treatment with these remedies.

Evening Primose Oil

Evening primrose is a wildflower often used for respiratory infections or stomach ailments. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, evening primrose has been shown to effectively treat allergies such as rashes. It has specifically shown effectiveness for rashes on the skin, and hives, which are characterized by itchiness.

Licorice

Licorice is a herb that may help soothe and coat your throat. In addition, it can clear your respiratory tract by eliminating mucous and phlegm. It has often been used in the treatment of asthma and cough. Studies have been mixed and more research is required to establish a clear benefit.

Devil's Claw

Devil's claw is a a shrub that has been used for degenerative disorders and as a pain reliever in conditions such as arthritis. This substance can be consumed in a variety of forms, including capsules, liquid extracts, pills, and topical creams. In addition, the dried root can be made into a tea for a beverage. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, devil's claw has been effective for treating stomach ailments, fever, headaches, appetite loss, and allergies. You can consider consuming this remedy in a tea or an alternative form to gain some allergy relief.

Quercetin And Green Tea

Quercetin is a member of plant pigments referred to as flavonoids. Flavonoids give vegetables their color and act as antioxidants in your body. They can protect you from free radical damage and therefore lower your risk of infection and illness. Quercetin may help relieve conditions such as asthma, allergies, hives, and hay fever. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, studies in test tubes have shown a decrease in the release of histamines, substances that trigger allergy symptoms, upon exposure to quercetin. Evidence has not been shown in human studies and further research is required. You can take this substance in the form of capsules or pills. You can also gain the benefits of flavonoids by drinking green tea.

References

Article reviewed by Molly Solanki Last updated on: Feb 3, 2011

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