Natural Herbs for Allergies

Allergies are caused by an atypical reaction by the immune system to typically harmless substances, which are referred to as allergens. Many people suffer from allergies all year long and find no relief from over the counter and prescription medications, leaving many to seek alternative forms of treatment.
  1. Evening Primrose oil

    • The University of Maryland Medical Center lists evening primrose oil as a treatment for allergies, citing it as being effective for rashes and itching caused by a skin rash or hives.

    Licorice

    • Licorice is a demulcent, which soothes and coats, and an expectorant, which removes phlegm and mucous from the respiratory tract. According to the UM Medical Center, health-care professionals use licorice to treat respiratory ailments such as allergies, bronchitis, colds, sore throats and tuberculosis.

    Butterbur

    • According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, butterbur leaves and root extracts are used to treat allergies, as well as bronchial asthma, headache, pain and muscle and urinary tract spasms. However, they also warn that studies are mixed on its effectiveness in fighting allergies.

    Açaí Berry

    • The açaí berry has become popular for its use in weight loss regimens, and it is also said to work as a treatment for allergies, lowering cholesterol, cardiovascular disease and cancer. Memorial Sloan-Kettering notes that it has not been proven effective in treating cancer, and due to the antioxidants found in the berry it can actually hinder the actions of chemotherapy medications.

    Stinging Nettle

    • Extract from the root of nettle is used as a treatment for allergies, prostatic hypertrophy and inflammation, though it is not understood exactly what causes it to work. Nettle is also often mixed with other herbs.

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