The return of fine weather and spring is a much-appreciated moment. But every year, this period is also accompanied by flowering, and the return of hay fever! Many French people suffer from this pollen allergy. As a result, many people experience this charming period with red eyes and runny noses. Fortunately, there are solutions for treating these allergies. And it doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive! In fact, there are natural antihistamines that can relieve these symptoms. Discover our selection of the best natural antihistamines.
Allergies and natural antihistamines
Aaaaah, the return of fine weather, long walks, blossoming trees… And allergies too! But what happens in the bodies of allergy sufferers? When we develop an allergy, it’s because our body has been in contact with an allergen that has entered our bloodstream. This initial exposure triggers a reaction in our immune system. Our immune system then starts producing antibodies. But when we’re exposed again, the body reacts, triggering allergic reactions. The body releases and activates histamine, a molecule which causes the appearance of various symptoms: runny nose, redness, itching… The big culprit behind all these ailments is histamine!To stop these allergies and symptoms, we need to fight against the proliferation of histamine in the body… This is the role of antihistamines! Antihistamines are used to stop the development of histamine in the body, and thus reduce allergy symptoms. Antihistamines can be dispensed in the form of drugs, in pharmacies, to stop allergic states. But there are also highly effective natural antihistamines, as we’re about to discover. These can put an end to allergic reactions, which can quickly become unbearable in everyday life. What’s more, natural antihistamines have the advantage of not causing any side effects, unlike chemical antihistamines!
Green tea
Green tea is a beverage with remarkable medicinal properties, consumed for a very long time in Asian countries. This hot beverage is not only a powerful antioxidant, but also a highly effective natural antihistamine. Green tea contains quercetin and catechin. These formidable anti-allergic compounds help fight histamine and reduce allergy symptoms. To reap the full benefits of green tea, it’s best to buy loose tea and brew for no more than 5 minutes at 70 degrees.
Spirulina
Spirulina is a nutrient-rich green algae. It has highly beneficial effects on the human body. For example, research has proven its effectiveness with allergy and hay fever sufferers. It helps relieve the symptoms of many allergies, particularly seasonal allergic rhinitis. If pollen makes you suffer, spirulina is the one to turn to! Spirulina comes in a variety of forms. In powder form, you can mix it into your drinks, for example, to make a smoothie. In flake form, you can sprinkle it on a salad. You can also find it in capsules and tablets, to be taken as a course of treatment.
Nettle
In our gardens, stinging nettle is not very popular… Yet this plant has many interesting medicinal properties. It’s also a highly effective natural antihistamine! In fact, it contains quercetin, which halts the development of histamine levels in the body, thus helping to combat allergies! You can use it as an infusion. It’s advisable to rinse the leaves well, and not to chop them. Why not? Because this reduces the effectiveness of its properties.
Capers
Make way for capers, the little flower buds of a Mediterranean plant! These condiments contain quercetin, a substance that inhibits the release of histamine. These little culinary aids are therefore highly effective natural antihistamines in the fight against allergies. On a pizza, in a tapenade or in your cakes, capers will easily find a place on your plate!
Onions
This one’s no stranger to the kitchen. You may not know it, but onions are also powerful natural antihistamines. Red onions are the most effective. It too contains quercetin, an active ingredient that helps combat allergies. Onions also help clean the respiratory tract. If you want to get rid of red eyes and a runny nose, include onions in your diet! You can eat it raw or cooked, in quiches, pan-fried dishes or salads…
