Natural Substitutes for Antihistamines

People have come to rely on pharmaceuticals to treat everything from minor aches and pains to arthritis and infection relief. Many of these drugs come with serious side effects and are costly. Natural remedies, herbal supplements, vitamins and mineral supplements can usually do the same job with less risk. Antihistamines inhibit histamines that are released in your body in response to allergens.

Antihistamines

• Once you are exposed to substances such as dust, pollen and mold, the immune system produces histamines. They cause swelling and running of the eyes, nose and sinuses. Antihistamines stop the histamines before they can cause any problems. There are dozens of antihistamine medications on the market, but natural substitutes are available as well.

Vitamins and Antioxidants

• Vitamins such as C and E contain natural antihistamine agents. When taken with antioxidants such as quercetin, carotene and selenium there is much less need for over-the-counter medication. These substances reduce the severity of the attacks of histamines against the body. They also reduce the number of histamines released when allergens are introduced into the body.

Herbal

• Herbal supplements relieve the effects of histamines on the body. Feverfew is a European flowering plant used as an antihistamine and anti-inflammatory agent. Feverfew reduces the release of histamines in the blood vessels. Chamomile is an anti-inflammatory agent and reduces inflammation in the sinuses during an allergy flair-up. Chamomile is most popularly consumed as a tea.

Cleansing Solution

• Maintaining clear nasal passages is another way to reduce the effect of histamines. Rinse your sinuses with a mixture of 4 oz. of warm water, ¼ tsp. of salt, and 1/8 tsp. of baking soda solution. This can be done once or twice daily.