Antihistamines are chemicals that block a histamine reaction, the process by which the body responds to allergens. Allergic reactions may be caused by toxins, dust or natural substances such as food or pollen. They are typically treated with prescription or over-the-counter antihistamines. Some herbs may also act as natural antihistamines. Consult a health care provider before trying herbs for medicinal purposes. Herbs should be used in conjunction with, and not in place of, traditional medical care.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a succulent plant that has been used since ancient times. It is considered healing and soothing, and is commonly used to treat burns, rashes and other skin conditions. Aloe juice is used internally to treat digestive disorders, relieve joint pain and treat other inflammatory conditions. In her book "How Can I Use Herbs in my Daily Life?," author and herbalist Isabell Shipard describes aloe vera's actions as astringent, antioxidant, analgesic, antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, demulcent and soothing. Herbalists sometimes use aloe vera juice to relieve symptoms associated with seasonal allergies. There is insufficient scientific evidence to date to support this practice, however. Check with your doctor before taking aloe vera internally.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle is a common plant that grows throughout Europe and Asia. It has been used in herbal and folk medicine for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including gout, arthritis and eczema. It has natural anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties. Do not take stinging nettle if you are currently taking prescription blood thinners. According to a 2009 study published in "Phytotherapy Research," scientists found that extracts of stinging nettle helped reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis -- also known as hay fever -- such as sneezing and itching, by blocking chemicals that activate the body's natural histamine response. Consult a trained health care practitioner for proper use of this herb.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is an herbal remedy which has its roots in native American medicine. It is a flowering plant that grows throughout North America and is often combined with echinacea to treat colds and upper respiratory infections. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that it is also commonly found in herbal remedies for hay fever, although scientific evidence is lacking to show that it is effective in treating upper respiratory conditions or allergies. Its active ingredient, berberine, is naturally antibacterial and may help fight infection and strengthen the immune system. Check with your doctor before trying goldenseal, as it may interfere with certain prescription medications.
Green Tea
Green tea and black tea come from the same plant, and are mostly cultivated in China. It is consumed as a beverage, but green tea is also believed to have medicinal qualities and health benefits. Herbalists use green tea and green tea extract to treat cancer, cardiovascular disease high cholesterol and diabetes. Green tea contains the compounds quercitin and catechin, which possess antihistamine properties, according to HealthyNutritionGuide.com. It is often recommended for its many purported health benefits and immune-boosting function. Talk to your medical doctor before using green tea for medicinal purposes.
References
- HerbsAreSpecial.com: Aloe Vera
- "Phytotherapy Research"; Nettle Extract (Urtica Dioica) Affects Key Receptors and Enzymes Associated With Allergic Rhinitis; B. Roscheck, et al.; July 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Goldenseal
- HealthyNutritionGuide.Info: Interesting Facts About Food and Nutrition
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