An allergy is an abnormal physical reaction to a foreign substance that enters the body by inhaling, eating, drinking or by direct contact with the skin or tissues. The victim may develop respiratory symptoms, including sneezing, a runny nose, itchy or red eyes, sore sinus passages or trouble breathing as a reaction to airborne allergens. Consumption of an allergen may produce stomach cramps, diarrhea, mouth and throat discomfort. If you are unsure what is causing the problem, an initial examination by your doctor is in order. Some herbal medications may reduce the effects of some allergens.
Antihistamines
Your body produces histamine when it encounters an allergic substance. When histamines are present, you may experience localized swelling, irritation and congestion. Herbs with antihistamine properties include grape seed extract and stinging nettle. Although not strictly an herb, Vitamin C also works to block histamine production.
Some allergies, such as an allergy to bee stings or an allergy to peanuts, may be life threatening. If the victim has a hard time breathing, seek emergency medical help.
Anti-Inflammatory
An insect bite or contact with poison ivy or latex may result in swelling at the site of contact. Eating some types of fish or other food allergens may cause mouth and lip swelling. If the swelling is mild, you may try an herbal anti-inflammatory to reduce it. Licorice, Chinese skullcap, echinacea and chamomile are herbal anti-inflammatories. They may reduce your mild swelling when prepared as a tea.
Additional Herbs
Feverfew, used to treat headaches, may reduce the effect of some allergies, but pregnant women or nursing mothers should not take it unless directed by their physician. Eating horseradish may help clear congestion in the sinuses and the upper respiratory tract. The Mayo Clinic includes butterbur, belladonna, goldenseal and cat's claw as potential herbs in the treatment of allergies.
Honey produced locally may have allergy-countering properties, although no scientific research backs up this claim. In addition, Ginkgo biloba and ephedra may be beneficial, but a doctor should approve ephedra and monitor the dosage since misuse can cause blood pressure and heart problems.
References
- Mother Nature
- Mayo Clinic
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine;" Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
