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Could These Natural Allergy Remedies Be Right For You?

Browse through the allergy medicine aisle at any drugstore and you’ll notice that there are a multitude of options—many of which work very well to treat your symptoms.

Stylized image of young woman reading a book

Whether you’re looking to prevent certain side effects such as drowsiness, or want to try a different approach to your current treatment plan, you may be curious whether supplements or other natural remedies could stifle your sniffling, sneezing, stuffiness, and more. These 3 evidence-backed options could potentially deliver some relief.

Quercetin

An antioxidant found in a variety of fruits, red wine, and onion, quercetin has been shown to help quell allergy symptoms. Scientists believe that taking quercetin may naturally halt your body from releasing certain inflammatory compounds that normally occur when you encounter an allergen.

Stinging nettle

Stinging nettle, also known as Urtica dioica, is a plant that’s shown to have some promising potential as an anti-allergy aid. One recent study found that allergy sufferers who took stinging nettle in addition to their allergy medicines had a decrease in the severity of their symptoms. Stinging nettle contains compounds that show a natural anti-inflammatory effect that may block the production and release of histamine, and as a result, pump the brakes on the body’s allergic response.

Butterbur

Butterbur is a plant that grows in Europe and parts of Asia and North America. It has been shown to help prevent migraines. Some research also suggests that butterbur extract may offer some relief for hay fever sufferers. In fact, studies have found that taking butterbur may work just as well at improving symptoms and quality of life as some popular antihistamines. If you decide to try butterbur, look for products that are labeled “PA-free.” Raw, unprocessed butterbur contains chemicals known as pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause liver damage and other complications. Butterbur that’s “PA-free” has been processed to remove the potentially harmful compounds.

Always talk with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. If you’re considering any natural remedies, it’s important to discuss them with your provider to make sure they’re safe for you and to determine the best dose you should take.

Online Medical Reviewer: Brian McDonough, MD
Date Last Reviewed: 12/27/2018
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