Allergies are the result of an over-active immune system responding to certain substances – commonly pollen, dust mites, pet dander and some foods – as foreign invaders, and releasing histamine and other chemicals into your blood. In people with allergic rhinitis, this causes a rush of immune cells into the swelling nasal membranes, bringing the familiar allergic reaction of an itchy, runny nose, watery eyes and blocked ears that can make life miserable.
There is no cure for allergies, but they can usually be well managed with medications, including antihistamines. Like most medications, antihistamines can have side-effects, including drowsiness and nausea, making it tempting to try more natural remedies. But, do these work?
Herbal remedies
While friends, family and the internet may suggest numerous home remedies for allergies, there is no clear scientific evidence of the efficacy of most of them. This includes stinging nettle, milk thistle, dandelion, quercetin, grape seed extract, astragalus, bromelain, turmeric, spirulina and omega-3 fatty acids.
"Butterbur is the only herbal treatment scientifically proven to work", says Dr Adrian Morris of the Cape Town and Johannesburg Allergy Clinic. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), "some studies of butterbur root or leaf extracts suggest that they may be helpful for symptoms of hay fever, but the data is not convincing…butterbur has not been proven helpful for allergic skin reactions".
Butterbur can also cause side effects of its own, such as headache, diarrhoea, itchy eyes, breathing difficulties and tiredness. In addition, the unprocessed plant contains alkaloids that may cause liver damage, even liver cancer. Extracts without alkaloids are available, but no studies have followed the long-term effects, notes the NCCIH.
Vitamin C
This is a well-known immune system supporter and potent anti-inflammatory, and a 2018 study on its effectiveness in treating allergies showed when administered in high doses intravenously, it reduced allergy symptoms. But, there is as yet no convincing evidence that taking supplements would have the same effect.
Honey
A popular theory is that eating locally-produced honey can, over time, lower your allergic reaction to the pollen the bees collect in your area to make that honey. But, there is very little pollen in honey, and the type of pollen may not be the same as the type triggering your allergies. At present, "there is no scientific proof that eating local honey will improve seasonal allergies," notes the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Eating unprocessed, untested honey may even produce an allergic reaction of its own.
Probiotics
These microorganisms may help your body maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria and support your immune system, but the NCCIH reports that: "Although some studies have had promising results, the overall evidence on probiotics and allergic rhinitis is inconsistent. It’s possible that some types of probiotics might be helpful but that others are not."
The bottom line on natural remedies for allergies
Just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s safe, and some natural remedies can interact negatively with medications. It's worth noting that natural remedies are also unregulated. Before using any alternative remedy, discuss it with your health professional.
"Most of the newer antihistamines don’t cause side effects," says Cape Town allergologist and paediatrician Dr Candice Royal. Should you experience unpleasant symptoms with their use, discuss them with your health professional. They may be able to advise alternatives that work better for you.
Today there are many different antihistamine drops and tablets available. You can also ask about allergy shots to build a tolerance to allergens. "This is an underutilised form of treatment," Royal says.
Also read: Can allergies cause a sore throat?
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