Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) has long been used by holistic doctors and traditional herbalists. It grows in North America, particularly in Oregon and other Northwestern states. It is also found throughout Europe. Its Latin name
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Natural Alternatives to Allergy Drugs: Quercetin
This naturally occurring flavonoid, found in foods and available as a nutritional supplement, has anti-allergy and anti-inflammatory properties. Preliminary research shows that it reduces histamine release from mast cells While we are unaware of any studies, we find it to be helpful clinically for our patients.
DOSAGE
Take 500 to 1,000 mg three times daily.
SAFETY
Rare instances of headaches and tingling of the extremities have been reported.
Natural Alternatives to Allergy Drugs: Stinging Nettle
This plant has been used by naturopathic doctors in the United States over several decades for the treatment of allergies. A randomized, double-blind study at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine tested the benefit of freezedried nettles for the treatment of hay fever. In the study, 58 percent of participants given stinging nettle had a reduction in sneezing and itching.
DOSAGE
Take 300 mg three times daily.
SAFETY
No adverse effects are known for the aboveground parts of stinging nettle, the part of the plant used in the mentioned study.
Natural Alternatives to Allergy Drugs: Thymus Extract
The thymus gland produces thymic hormones, which help to regulate immunity. Thymus extracts are used as nutritional support for those with allergies. Thymus extract has been shown in one study to be effective in the treatment of allergic rhinitis.
DOSAGE
Take 750 mg of crude thymus polypeptide fraction or 120 mg of pure thymus polypeptides (thymomodulin) daily, or as directed on the label.
SAFETY
No adverse effects have been reported.
Natural Alternatives to Allergy Drugs: Butterbur
This plant extract is commonly used in Europe for the treatment of hay fever. A prospective, randomized, double-blind study compared butterbur to fexofenadine (Allegra) and placebo in 330 participants with allergies (allergic rhinitis). The butterbur group took one tablet (8 mg of the active ingredient petasine) three times daily. Both fexofenadine (Allegra) and butterbur were superior to placebo in relieving symptoms. Another study found butterbur extract to be effective in relieving nasal symptoms associated with allergies. It was also shown after five days of use to significantly reduce the allergenic substance histamine. In addition, a randomized, double-blind, parallel group comparison found butterbur to be as effective as cetirizine (Zyrtec) in treating seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
DOSAGE
For allergic rhinitis, use a standardized extract containing 8 to 16 mg of petasine taken three to four times daily. Also, a whole butterbur root extract at a dose of 50 mg twice daily has been studied and can be used as well.
SAFETY
Butterbur is well tolerated. It can cause digestive upset, headache, fatigue, and itchy eyes.
Natural Alternatives to Allergy Drugs: Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Drink plenty of water to remain hydrated. Herbal teas such as ginger and peppermint are great to keep the sinuses clear. Avoid or reduce foods that commonly increase nasal congestion, such as cow
Allergy Drugs: Nasal Mast Cell Stabilizers
Cromolyn nasal spray (Nasalcrom)
HOW DO THESE DRUGS WORK?
These medications stabilize mast cell membranes, which prevents the release of inflammatory and allergy-producing substances known as histamines and leukotrienes.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
These drugs prevent allergy symptoms, although they can take up to four weeks to be fully effective.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
- Bad taste in the mouth
- Cough, dry throat
- Headache
- Nosebleeds or runny nose
- Sneezing
- Stinging, burning, or irritation inside the nose
MAJOR CAUTIONS
- Difficulty breathing
KNOWN DRUG INTERACTIONS
None known.
FOOD OR SUPPLEMENT INTERACTIONS
None known.
NUTRIENT DEPLETION/IMBALANCE
None known.
Allergies are a very common health problem in the United States; approximately one out of five people is affected by hay fever.With this condition sufferers react to substances in the environment such as grass or tree pollens. This is usually seasonal. Some people react year-round to things such as dust mites, pet dander, or mold. Common symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, congested sinus, watery and/or itchy eyes, and sinus pressure and pain. Allergies can also cause sinus headaches, fatigue, inability to focus, itchy mouth and throat, sore throat, sleep problems, asthma, eczema, and a variety of other health problems. (more…)