Spring allergies: 5 Natural antihistamines

Sneezing, nose itching, constant congestion...does it sound familiar? These unpleasant symptoms are all too common for those who suffer from spring allergies. As the season changes and flowers start to bloom, pollen and other allergens are released into the air, triggering the body's immune response and causing allergy symptoms.

On today’s blog, we are bringing you 5 natural antihistamines that can help alleviate these allergy symptoms, leaving you ready to enjoy the season!

How can antihistamines help with allergies?

As a response to allergens, like the rise of pollen, our body produces antibodies to “fight” this foreign invader. As a result, these antibodies trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals that can cause these common symptoms we were talking about, itching, sneezing, headaches…

The antihistamines work blocking your body’s histamine response, helping alleviate these uncomfortable symptoms. It is important to note that they are not a cure for allergies but rather a way to bring relief.  

Natural antihistamines

A natural antihistamine is a substance found in nature - vegetables, fruits, herbs....- that provides allergy relief just like pharmaceutical antihistamines do, Although they might take a little longer to work, they have been proven to be effective. Let’s dive into the 5 best natural antihistamines to handle your allergy symptoms!

Vitamin C 🍊

Vitamin C has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and it can help reduce inflammation in the airways, leading to a reduction in symptoms like congestion, runny nose and itchy eyes. 

Where to find it
The Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, like oranges, grapefruits, lemons; also in berries, kiwi, bell peppers, broccoli, spinach,tomatoes… A wide range of options that will give your vitamin C levels that needed boost! 

Quercetin 🍏🥦

With anti-inflammatory properties this natural antihistamine can help stabilize mast cells, which release histamines. It is also a powerful antioxidant and has been shown to have a number of potential health benefits.

Where to find it
You can find this flavonoid found in fruits, vegetables, and herbs such as apples, onions, citrus fruits, broccoli, and green tea. Why not try a green smoothie to fight the allergies?

Butterbur 🍃 

This plant native to Asia and Europe has been shown in some studies to be effective in reducing allergy symptoms. Butterbur contains compounds that can block histamine receptors and reduce inflammation.

Where to find it
It comes from the root of the butterbur plant and you can find it in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts.

Stinging nettle🌿

A plant that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for allergies. Stinging nettle contains compounds that can block histamine receptors and reduce inflammation.

Where to find it
You can buy stinging nettle in several forms, including supplements and tinctures. But you can also find it in dried leaf or powdered form. So why don’t you make a cup of tea and say goodbye to your itchy eyes? 

Bromelain 🍍

Bromelain is a natural enzyme that is found in pineapples. With anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy properties, it works by breaking down certain proteins that are involved in the immune response. By doing so, it can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate allergy symptoms.

Where to find it
Although bromelain is found in pineapples, this fruit also contains a high amount of naturally occurring histamines, so it’s recommended to avoid having fresh pineapple if you are trying to fight this histamine intolerance.

For this reason, supplements are generally the preferred way to take bromelain as a natural remedy for allergies.

Over-the-counter antihistamines

While natural antihistamines can be effective for many people, some may require stronger medications to manage their allergy symptoms. In such cases, over-the-counter antihistamine tablets can be a good option.

Allegra is the #1 allergist recommended non-drowsy brand among OTC oral antihistamines, offering a wide range of long-lasting, effective allergy relief.  

The 24-Hour Allergy Relief (tablets or gelcap )Tablets and  is the perfect option to stay one step ahead of indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes or itchy throat.

If you're suffering specially from nasal congestion you can go for the nasal spray from Neo-Synephrine. It helps shrinking swollen membranes so you can breathe more freely, giving you a temporary relief.

Ultimately, finding the right approach to effectively manage your symptoms and reclaim your quality of life may involve a combination of natural remedies and traditional medications.
So, are you ready to fight back against (and win) your allergies?