Antihistamine Properties Of Herbal Remedies

Allergies affect around half of all Americans. According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology, as many as 54.6 percent of all Americans test positive to at least one allergen. Most with allergies are also allergic to more than one thing and can have respiratory, skin or food allergies. There are many types of prescription and over-the-counter treatments for allergies, including antihistamines, corticosteroids and mast cell stabilizers, but some people may wish to use herbal remedies for allergy treatment. Check with your health care provider before beginning an herbal regimen for allergies.

Quercetin

Quercetin is a bioflavonoid with antioxidant activity. It may also act to inhibit some enzymes and growth of cells that contribute to antihistamine formation and allergic reaction. It has been used to treat allergies, asthma and hives. It may also help to prevent abnormal cell growth, aiding in the treatment of cancer because of its antioxidant activity. Quercetin is found in black tea, blue-green algae, red wine, broccoli and onions but is also readily available as an herbal supplement. It may interact with some antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin and other medications. Tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking, including herbal supplements, before taking quercetin.

Rooibos

Rooibos, also known as redbush, is made from the leaves of a legume, native to South Africa. It may work as an antihistamine in both the nasal passages and stomach. This may help those with respiratory and food allergies. It has also been used in folk medicine to treat viruses and bacterial infections such as syphilis. It is most commonly consumed as a tea but may also be used as an extract. It may interfere with iron absorption and should not be taken by those with iron-deficiency conditions. According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, it should also not be taken by those with estrogen-related hormone conditions. Talk to your doctor about all your medical conditions and medications that you are taking before self-treating with rooibos.

Scutellaria

Scutellaria, also known as Chinese skullcap, is native to both China and Russia and has had an important place in Asian medicine for over 2000 years, according to the "Prescription for Herbal Healing." It may work to treat allergies and asthma by preventing the release of histamine in a manner similar to the medication cromolyn sodium. It may also have anti-infective properties against some bacteria, viruses and fungus and may help to prevent complications associated with allergies. It should not be confused American skullcap and may need to be obtained from a Chinese herb store.

Stinging Nettle

Stinging nettle has been used for a number of health treatments related to allergies, including nasal rhinitis, food allergies and skin allergies. It reportedly exhibits anti-inflammatory effects and may also be useful in the treatment of other conditions such as prostate disorders by decreasing the activity of testosterone, but it should be used under the care of a physician. It is available in tablet and capsule form as a supplement and as a tea but should not be harvested fresh as it will likely cause localized skin irritation. Ask your doctor of stinging nettle would be beneficial for your condition.

Chen-Pi

Chen-pi, also known as bitter orange peel, is derived from the fresh peel of the Mandarin orange. It has been used for many years in traditional Chinese medicine to prevent and treat allergic reactions. Some Chinese practitioners also advise the use of the whole fruit. The herbal medication is most often used as a tincture or tea but can be taken as a supplement in pill form. It has also been used to treat gastrointestinal conditions such as diarrhea, indigestion and cramping but should not be taken by women who are pregnant or have menstrual difficulties as it may stimulate contractions of the uterus in large doses.