Many people in the world suffer from pollen allergies which cause rhinitis, conjunctivitis (eye allergies), asthma, coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, stuffy nose, runny nose, and itchy throat. In general, these symptoms are an immune system response caused by the production of histamine as a defense mechanism against various microorganisms. Since histamine is the main cause of various symptoms of pollen allergies, getting rid of it is an effective way to treat this allergy. Currently, there are hundreds of generic drugs that you can buy at pharmacies to treat pollen allergies. But, unfortunately, most of these drugs have side effects. Therefore, it's a good idea to try using a natural antihistamine to treat this allergy.
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Method 1 of 4: Using Kitchen Ingredients
Step 1. Use turmeric to cure inflammation of the respiratory tract
Turmeric contains a substance called curcumin which prevents the production of histamine in the body. Curcumin also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, easing the airways that are inflamed due to allergic reactions.
- You can increase your turmeric intake by adding a pinch of turmeric to the vegetables, fish, or meat you eat. Even if it's not very flavorful, your food will turn an attractive yellow or orange color.
- The recommended intake of turmeric is 300 mg per day.
Step 2. Consume local honey to increase the body's immunity to pollen
The pollen contained in raw bee honey will help boost immunity and prevent allergic reactions and infections. By consuming a small amount of pollen each day, you will be vaccinating yourself against pollen allergies.
- It's best if the honey you consume is locally produced because it will contain specific pollens that are only available in the area where you live, so the effect will be more effective.
- Try to consume two teaspoons of raw local honey every day to get maximum results.
Step 3. Consume basil to reduce inflammation
Basil contains antihistamine substances that help prevent inflammation caused by allergies. Apart from that, basil can also be used to offer bee or insect sting venom.
- To increase your basil intake, you can remove fresh basil leaves and eat them with salads, soups and sauces.
- Another way you can do this is to make basil tea by chopping up fresh basil leaves and adding them to boiling boiling water. Leave it for five minutes, then strain the resulting tea and add honey to it as a flavoring before drinking.
Step 4. Consume onions to reduce histamine production in the body
Onions contain a chemical called quercetin which helps lower the production of histamine in the body and reduces pollen allergy symptoms.
- Try to add more onions in your cooking. If possible, consume raw onions because the quercetin content in them is higher.
- Quercetin also helps widen your airways and make it easier for you to breathe.
Step 5. Mix ginger into your cooking to reduce allergic reactions
Ginger contains anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties that can help prevent allergic reactions.
- To make ginger tea, cut the ginger root into 2.5 cm lengths, then mash or grate it and put it in a cup of boiling water. Leave it for 5 minutes. After that, you can strain the ginger and drink the tea.
- You can also grate fresh ginger and mix it into curries, boiled potatoes, and salads.
Step 6. Consume garlic to increase the body's resistance to allergens
Garlic suppresses certain enzymes that cause inflammation in the body. Garlic also contains antibiotic ingredients that boost the immune system and help the body ward off allergies and infections.
- Choose raw garlic because it will be more effective than cooked onions. Consume two or three small grains every day.
- If you think fresh garlic is too strong for your taste buds, add it to soups, boiled potatoes, and salads.
Step 7. Drink green tea to fight all kinds of allergies
Green tea contains compounds called catechins which prevent the conversion of histidine to histamine, so that allergic reactions will stop before they can cause symptoms.
- Aim to drink two to three cups of green tea every day for maximum results.
- Green tea can also help relieve other types of allergies (eg allergies to dust, powder, etc.).
Step 8. Eat more apples to control histamine release
Apples contain a flavonoid compound called quercetin. This compound controls the release of histamine in the body, thereby limiting allergic reactions.
You may have heard the expression '“'an apple a day keeps the doctor away”. One clear proof is that apples can help with pollen allergies
Step 9. Increase your intake of vitamin C which can break down histamine
Vitamin C reduces histamine release by breaking it down more quickly. In addition, vitamin C also reduces the sensitivity of the respiratory tract to histamine.
- Foods that are high in vitamin C: papaya, banana, mango, guava, pineapple, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and sweet potato.
- The recommended amount of vitamin C consumption is 1000 mg per day.
Step 10. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to reduce sinus inflammation
Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the sinuses caused by sinus allergies. Omega-3s also promote lung health and boost the immune system, preparing your body to ward off pollen allergies.
- Foods that are naturally high in omega-3 fatty acids include: flaxseed, walnuts, soybeans, cauliflower, sardines, salmon, and shrimp.
- The recommended intake of omega-3 fatty acids is 1000 mg, three times a day.
Step 11. Drink peppermint tea to ease breathing
Peppermint contains an ingredient called menthol which helps relieve nasal congestion and relaxes the airways.
- Peppermint also contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties to help fight infection.
- To make peppermint tea, place 14.2 g of dried peppermint leaves in a jar. Fill two-thirds of the jar with boiled water, and wait five minutes. In addition, you can also inhale the steam from the stew to maximize its effects. Cool, serve, add sugar if you wish, and drink.
Method 2 of 4: Experimenting with Herbal Medicines
Step 1. Consume nettle to reduce the amount of histamine in the body
This suggestion will probably surprise everyone who has ever been stung by a nettle and found itchy skin. However, research shows that nettle can indeed reduce the amount of histamine in the body. In one study, more than half of people who used dried and refrigerated nettle to treat allergies reported positive results. Several other studies have also indicated that taking nettle as a supplement or as a tea during allergy season can help relieve pollen allergies by suppressing the symptoms.
- Instead, nettle is consumed as a supplement, according to the manufacturer's instructions for use, or as a tea. You can start drinking two to three cups of nettle tea a day for one to two weeks before allergy season. Continue consumption until the end of the season.
- Except for pregnant women, nettle is safe for consumption by anyone. This is due to uterine contractions that can be stimulated by nettle.
Step 2. Experiment with quercetin and rutin
The two materials are chemically related and can be found in various types of plants. Both are also bioflavonoid compounds and function to protect blood vessels from excessive leakage, reducing swelling caused by allergies. In addition, they also function as anti-inflammatory substances.
- Quercitin and rutin are safe for consumption; however, sometimes, inflammation and digestive problems can result from it.
- Both are taken as supplements; consumed according to the instructions for use.
- Quercitin and rutin have not been tested for safety in children or pregnant women.
- There are several studies that prove that quercitin and rutin can lower blood pressure. If you are taking medicines for blood pressure, consult your doctor first before you take quercitin or routine.
- Quercitin and rutin should not be taken with cyclosporin (Neoral, Sandimmune).
- If you are taking blood-thinning medications such as warfarin or aspirin, consult your doctor before taking quercitin or routine.
Step 3. Take bromelain to reduce swelling in the sinuses
Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapples and various other plants. This ingredient is used as a digestive enzyme and inflammation reliever.
- Research in veterinary science also indicates that bromelain can treat allergic asthma.
- The German panel of experts, Commission E, recommends a dose of 80-320 mg (200-800 FIP units) of bromelain two to three times a day. Bromelain is also available as a supplement.
- Do not take bromelain if you are allergic to latex. For reasons that are still unclear at this time, cases of sensitivity to both are often found.
- If you are taking amoxicillin or other blood-thinning medications, talk to your doctor before using bromelain.
Step 4. Take eyebright (also known as euphrasia) to treat inflammation and irritation of the eyes
As you can guess from its name, eyebright has been widely used to treat allergic reactions and many others in the eyes. Eyebright is known to have anti-inflammatory effects equivalent to indomethacin. When taken orally, eyebright can also treat allergies.
- Eyebright has not been tested for safety in pregnant women.
- Eyebright can be taken as a tea or as a supplement.
- Eyebright reduces inflammation of the eye caused by blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelash follicles) and conjunctivitis (inflammation or infection of the membrane that lines the eyelids). Eyebright can also be used as eye drops or used as an internal ophthalmic medication.
- Eyebright is also used as an anti-inflammatory agent for hay fever, sinusitis, upper respiratory infections, and cataracts (inflammation of the mucous membranes).
Step 5. Take elderberry as a supplement or tea
Elderberry has been used in traditional medicine to treat people suffering from pollen allergies. Elderberry contains high amounts of bioflavonoids, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidants, all of which play a role in treating allergies.
Elderberry is safe to consume as a tea or supplement for children
Step 6. Take petasites as an effective substitute for antihistamines
A derivative of European weeds, petasites (Petasites hybridus) is another alternative antihistamine. Research has indicated that petasites can reduce histamine and other inflammatory substances in the body of people with allergies.
- According to research, petasites acts effectively as the drug cetrizine, the active ingredient in Zyrtec, one of the most widely known antihistamine tablets. Although cetirizine is considered a non-sedating antihistamine, some researchers report that it can also cause drowsiness while petasites does not.
- Warning: petasites belongs to the same family as ragweed, a weed that is widely known to trigger allergy symptoms.
- Petasites is not recommended for pregnant women. For adults and children, petasites are known to be quite safe.
Step 7. Try taking dong quai to treat respiratory problems from allergies
Some of the chemicals contained in dong quai have antihistamine and anti-serotonin effects. Histamine, serotonin, and other compounds are released from blood cells in response to something irritating to the body such as pollen, dust, chemical fumes, or animal dander and causes symptoms associated with allergies. The antihistamine effect of dong quai helps prevent these allergy symptoms from occurring.
Dong quai supplements can be purchased at health food stores. Alternatively, you can boil dong quai leaves to make tea
Step 8. Take goldenseal to reduce pollen allergy symptoms
This plant is widely known among lovers of herbal medicines. Goldenseal has many properties, including being an anti-catarrh, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, tonic, laxative, anti-diabetic, and alternative muscle stimulant.
- In the context of allergies, goldenseal is known to have an astringent effect on the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, bladder, rectum (administered topically), and skin.
- When used with a nasal spray, goldenseal can also significantly reduce pollen allergy symptoms.
Step 9. Take eucalyptus as a decongestant
Eucalyptus is an ingredient commonly used in syrups and lozenges. The benefits are caused by a compound called cineol contained in it. Sineol has various properties, including: as an expectorant, reduces coughs, fights nasal congestion, and relieves sinus tract irritation.
Eucalyptus oil has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-bacterial effects. Eucalyptus oil vapor acts as a decongestant when inhaled and, therefore, can be used to treat sinusitis
Method 3 of 4: Using Steam Pengobatan
Step 1. Look for herbs to use in steam treatment
Nettle, eyebright, and petasites can be used in steam treatment when they have been dried. You will only need one teaspoon of the plant per treatment session.
Step 2. Add the plant to one cup of boiling water
Stir in the water until completely mixed. You don't need to keep the water boiling all the time, the important thing is that it produces steam.
Step 3. Breathe in the steam
Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam using both nostrils and mouth. Do as long as you want. The longer you do this, the more relieved your sinuses will be.
Step 4. Be careful
Make sure you don't get hurt by the hot steam! The first time you try this, take one deep breath and then step away from the steam. You need to do this to find out if you have any allergies to the plants in it. Keep in mind that if you have an allergic reaction to a product of one plant, there is a good chance that you may have an allergic reaction to another plant as well.
Method 4 of 4: When Should You Seek Doctor's Help
Step 1. See a doctor if home remedies don't help reduce allergy symptoms
You can probably treat most seasonal allergies with natural treatments, over-the-counter medications, and preventative measures like keeping pollen out of your home. However, if none of the above helps, contact your doctor or allergy specialist. They can help provide other treatments for you.
Your doctor may also ask you to undergo laboratory tests to determine the exact cause of the allergy
Step 2. Seek medical attention if allergies cause severe symptoms
Sometimes, a pollen allergy can trigger a more serious problem, such as a sinus infection or asthma attack. If your allergies are accompanied by sinus symptoms, difficulty breathing, wheezing, or shortness of breath, call your doctor immediately. Your doctor may suggest a more aggressive treatment.
For example, you may have to be injected with allergy medications or take immunotherapy drugs
Step 3. Discuss the use of new supplements or herbal remedies with your doctor first
Just like other drugs, supplements and herbal medicines can also cause side effects and drug interactions. Supplements and herbal remedies may also be unsafe to use if you have certain illnesses. Consult your doctor first before trying any supplements or herbal remedies to ensure their safety.
- Tell about any other medications or supplements you are also taking, including over-the-counter medications.
- Tell your medical history and if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffering from certain diseases.
Step 4. Seek emergency help if you have a severe reaction after using herbal remedies
Herbal remedies and dietary supplements can sometimes trigger severe allergic reactions. Stop using herbal remedies or supplements if you experience symptoms such as rash, hives, itching, or swelling. Visit the emergency department or call an ambulance if you have a severe allergic reaction such as:
- Difficult to breathe
- Swelling of the tongue, lips, face, or throat
- Heart pounding
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea and vomiting
Tips
- Histamine increases fluid secretion from blood vessels and acts as a chemical messenger to "call" other cells to produce more inflammatory substances.
- In the body, histamine also functions as a neurotransmitter, regulates the sleep cycle, releases stomach acid, and acts on the lungs to increase the constriction of the bronchioles.
- In addition to these natural remedies, you can also use a saline solution in a neti pot to irrigate your nose.
- You can also reduce allergy symptoms by ensuring that pollen doesn't get into your home. The trick is to close windows and doors, use air conditioners instead of window and attic fans during pollination season, dry clothes and sheets in the dryer instead of drying outside, and prevent pets that have spent time outside from entering your room (pollen can get trapped in your pet's fur).
- Close car windows while driving. Use air conditioning if you need it. If you absolutely must be outdoors, reduce your exposure to pollen by checking the pollen levels in the air before going outside. Pollen levels in the air can be seen on several internet sites.
