An allergy is the overreaction of the immune system to an allergen that affects the body, resulting in symptoms of sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes and runny nose. Severe allergies are serious; they may cause a rash, difficulty breathing or asthma attacks, or anaphylactic shock, a severe whole-body allergic reaction that requires immediate emergency medical care. A common allergy is allergic rhinitis due to an inhaled indoor or outdoor allergen. An alternative treatment to allergic rhinitis is the use of herbal remedies.
Butterbur
Butterbur is scientifically called Petasites hybridus. Years ago the large heart-shaped leaves of butterbur were used to wrap butter; hence its name. The active ingredients in butterbur are the petasins. According to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, extracts from the leaves of butterbur have been used in treating headache, pain and bronchial asthma and allergies. More intensive studies are needed to support the recommendation to treat allergies with butterbur because of the mixed results about its efficacy. Raw butterbur extract may contain an excess of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are damaging to the liver.
Nettle
The scientific name for nettle is Urtica dioica. Extracts from the root of the nettle plant are used to treat allergies, inflammation and benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. Nettle also works as a diuretic; it removes fluid from the body through urination. It will also lower blood pressure. Consultation with a health care provider is important for individuals taking diuretics, blood pressure medications or blood thinners before taking nettle. According to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, side effects of nettle may include gastrointestinal upset, sweating and skin irritations or a rash.
Biminne
Biminne is a formulary combination of Chinese herbs, including Chinese skullcap, horny goat weed and Japanese apricot, as well as ginkgo biloba, astragalus schizandra and Ledebouriella divaricata. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this formula is used to treat allergic rhinitis. It is unknown how biminne works and how safe it is to use on a long-term basis.
Facts About Allergies
Over 50 million Americans suffer from allergies. An allergen may enter the body through an injection or the lungs, or it may be eaten or touched. Allergies cannot be cured; the best treatment is preventing or eliminating the source.
Warning
As with all medications, supplements or herbal products, there is the chance of side effects or drug interactions when taking any of these herbs. A discussion with a health care professional is important before taking any herbal remedies.
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