Allergies, specifically recurrent allergies, also known as hay fever are a very common affliction these days, particularly in developed countries. Though the accurate cause for allergies is usually hard to define, it is well-known that when the entire body recognizes a “foreign invader” or any other probable danger, it releases a chemical called histamine. This histamine causes inflammation, and is chiefly responsible for most allergy symptoms.
While several persons speculate why our body would generate the chemical called histamine at all, it is actually a very good immune system response, at least temporarily. It is the body’s way of separating the unknown matter, and removing it from our system.
Visualize this… something dangerous or toxic all of a sudden was inhaled and substances attached themselves to the walls of your nose or the part of your eye called cornea. Your body needs a way to get this threat away, so it generates nasal mucus to "trap and remove" it like the way you blow your nose… or your eyes begin to water and burn to let you recognize something is wrong, and it is cleaning it out as it is possible to.
So the benefit is obvious... the difficulty with allergies is that the body reacts in the similar manner to foreign materials that are NOT hazardous…like pollen, or cat dander. Now, the general method in most of the developed world to stop allergies is some form of prescription or OTC medication. Nevertheless, there are natural herbal plants and cures that are useful in reducing histamine levels and alleviating other allergy symptoms. While not all natural herbal remedies work, these have shown some promise in lab studies.
Here are some of the effective herbs for allergies.
Licorice - Yep, the same plant that provides the candy it's name a flavor. Licorice has been shown in researches to decrease symptoms of allergy by lessening irritation. Licorice does this by aiding retain high levels of usual cortisal in the bloodstream. Cortisol is essentially a natural steroid, and it works to lessen irritation. Be cautious of taking licorice if you have high blood pressure, or any heart condition, or take any medication for any heart conditions. Nursing and pregnant women shouldn't take licorice.
If you have breathing problems when your allergies are dreadful, then you better take Ma Haung. Ma Huang is capable of opening the airway because of its natural stimulant properties. Beware of this herb if you are suffering from hypertension, and it is good only if used for short time… normally ten days in a row or less.
Nettles is a natural at blocking histamine. Well manufactured nettles extract might be capable of blocking the histamine that is present in your body. Generally 2 - 4 ml per day of perfectly made extract is a good dosage for someone attempting to prevent hay fever symptoms.
These are all herbs that can aid in relieving symptoms of allergy, but please check with a physician before you take any herb for whichever reason, as drug interactions and negative impacts are uncommon but do occur. So be very careful when trying any herbs for allergies.
