Natural Antihistamines: The 10 Most Effective

Natural antihistamines don't work like actual medications (such as those containing cetirizine or loratadine), but some substances found in foods and herbs can reduce histamine release or modulate the allergic response. Their effectiveness varies greatly from person to person and also depends on the severity of the symptoms.

The effect is gradual and predominantly preventative: therefore, natural antihistamines cannot replace the drugs prescribed by your doctor in the case of significant allergies.

But let's see which are the most effective and where they are located.

Blackcurrant or nigrum

Rich in vitamin C , this fruit strengthens the immune system . Taking a few drops of blackcurrant extract in water, or in herbal teas, is helpful in preventing allergies and combating their symptoms. Choosing the right extract isn't always easy, especially if you're unfamiliar with the product, as there are various types and brands available on the market.

To better navigate your options, you might want to consult some online catalogs, such as the one at Shop-farmacia.it , to get a comprehensive overview of what's available. This will make it easier to find the right product for your needs, especially if you're looking for a natural anti-inflammatory.

Green tea

Green tea is an excellent ally for reducing the impact of histamine. It contains quercetin and catechin, flavonoids found in generous quantities in some plant foods. Drinking green tea helps reduce allergy symptoms, but regular consumption can also prevent them.

Its ease of use makes it perfect for consumption throughout the day, and it also has a dual effect: one on allergies and the other on water retention. This latter benefit shouldn't be underestimated, especially with summer approaching.

Basil and ginger

This season, basil adorns the shelves of greengrocers and supermarkets. Taking advantage of this opportunity to purchase a plant is a must. It will be your immune system's best ally.

For immediate relief, simply steep dried basil leaves until the water cools. Then drink the infusion or, in the case of rashes, apply it directly to the skin. The same goes for ginger.

Regular consumption of ginger teas effectively counteracts the effects of allergies, a condition which, let's remember, isn't exclusive to spring. Plants and flowers bloom year-round, so it may be helpful to consult the pollen calendar if you frequently suffer from allergies.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is widely recommended as a natural antihistamine and remedy for seasonal allergies, as well as respiratory problems caused by colds or flu. Rich in anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antihistamine substances, it can combat the bothersome symptoms of allergies.

Simply dilute a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink the solution two or three times a day. Repeating this process for at least four consecutive days can yield significant benefits.

Quercetin

Vitamin C:

Fruits and vegetables provide natural antihistamines, especially important in cases of allergies . It's a good idea to eat plenty of oranges , lemons, tangerines, grapefruits, carrots , and kiwis , but that's not all. Peppers, broccoli, strawberries, and cauliflower also provide the body with an excellent supply of vitamin C.

An adequate intake of vitamin C can help soothe inflammation of the nasal mucosa, typical of allergic rhinitis.

Licorice

Licorice is known for its anti-inflammatory , expectorant , and antihypertensive properties . In particular, some scientific research has highlighted licorice's positive effects on histamine release . However, its use should be limited in time, as it can lead to the onset of conditions such as hypertension , arrhythmia, and sodium retention.

Licorice is not indicated in the following cases:

• Hypertension
• Severe renal failure
• Severe liver failure
• Overweight and obesity
• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Diabetes mellitus
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Helichrysum

Helichrysum italicum , a native Mediterranean plant , is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties . Helichrysum has been shown to contain natural compounds called:

• Flavonoids
• Phenolic acids

Able to act as natural antihistamines.

According to a study published in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology, the flavonoids in helichrysum reduce the production of histamine , a substance produced by the immune system in response to allergens such as pollen, animal dander, and dust. These external agents cause allergic symptoms such as itching, nasal congestion, and watery eyes.

In the journal Molecules in 2014, it was reported that the phenolic acids present in helichrysum have anti-inflammatory properties capable of reducing inflammation associated with allergies.

Echinacea

A plant that stimulates the immune system and can reduce inflammation, improving allergy symptoms, such as nasal congestion and sore throat.

Turmeric

It contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and may help reduce inflammation associated with allergic reactions.

Timo

Thyme has natural antihistamine properties and can be helpful for nasal congestion. You can make a thyme infusion to take advantage of its beneficial properties.

Chamomile

Chamomile is a natural antihistamine for several reasons. First, its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties make it ideal for seasonal ailments, especially when consumed in infusions and accompanied by a teaspoon of honey.

In seasonal allergies, chamomile can have several purposes:

• Soothe the effects of allergies on the upper respiratory tract
• Reduce and soothe eyes due to tearing, burning and swelling

For the eyes it can be useful to follow these simple indications:

• Boil some water and add the chamomile, or 3 drops of chamomile essential oil in half a liter of water
• Dip with cotton wool or cotton pads
• Apply to eyelids for about 10-15 minutes every day

Omega-3

Foods rich in Omega-3 are known for their immune-boosting properties. Omega-3's action counteracts inflammation and slows the onset of eczema or food allergies.

These fatty acids, if present in good quantities, cannot completely stop the onset of the allergy, but they can slow it down and mitigate its effects.

Eating foods rich in Omega 3 also allows you to be better prepared in the early stages of the onset of allergies thanks to the ability of the fatty acids to rebalance T and B lymphocytes, which play a central role in the evolution of an allergic reaction.

Homeopathic products

Natural antihistamines are also found in homeopathy . In particular, these are the two products favored by lovers of natural remedies:

• euphrasia
• Histaminum hidrochloricum

In the first case, we are talking about a natural homeopathic antihistamine used to treat allergies originating from pollen and which cause rhinitis and conjunctivitis.

Histaminum hydrochloricum, on the other hand, is a natural antihistamine par excellence. Derived from histamine, the chemical that triggers allergic reactions, this homeopathic product has anti-inflammatory properties and combats allergies.

Helichrysum, Euphrasia, and other natural remedies, although they can be useful as natural antihistamines, should only be used after consulting your doctor . In fact, before using natural remedies to treat health problems, it's important to inform your doctor, especially if you're already taking medications, have severe allergies, or have other medical conditions.

Read also:

• What to do about spring allergies
• Allergies can also occur in winter
• Autumn allergies: how to recognize them and how to avoid them