Vitamin C Therapy For Allergies
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People with allergies may find relief by using natural plant extracts and foods that act as antihistamines.
Antihistamines are substances that block histamine activity in the body. Histamine is a protein that triggers allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and a scratchy throat.
Over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription antihistamine medications are effective for symptom relief, but they can cause side effects, such as drowsiness and nausea. As a result, some people wish to try natural alternatives.
In this article, we describe the five best natural antihistamines, and we take a look at the science behind them.
Vitamin C boosts the immune system. It also acts as a natural antihistamine.
According to a 2018 study on vitamin C in the treatment of allergies, oxidative stress plays a key role in allergic diseases. As vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it may act as a treatment for allergies.
The researchers observed that high doses of intravenous vitamin C reduced allergy symptoms. They also reported that a deficiency in vitamin C might lead to allergy-related diseases.
Another study from 2000 suggests taking 2 grams (g) of vitamin C daily to act as an antihistamine.
The vitamin is present in many fruits and vegetables, including:
- bell peppers
- broccoli
- cantaloupe melon
- cauliflower
- citrus fruits
- kiwifruit
- strawberries
- tomatoes and tomato juice
- winter squash
Vitamin C supplements, with and without bioflavonoids, are available in health stores, drug stores, and online.
Butterbur is a plant extract from a shrub that grows in Asia, Europe, and some parts of North America. People often use butterbur to treat migraines and hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis.
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), butterbur
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This review suggested that butterbur was better than a placebo, or as effective as antihistamine medications, for relieving allergy symptoms.
However, the authors of the review point out that some large studies received funding from industry manufacturers, and so further independent research is needed.
Most people tolerate butterbur well, according to the
- breathing difficulties
- diarrhea
- drowsiness
- fatigue
- a headache
- itchy eyes
Raw butterbur extracts
The plant extract can also cause allergic reactions in people with sensitivities to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies.
Bromelain is an enzyme found in the core and juice of pineapples and is also available as a supplement.
Bromelain is a popular natural remedy for swelling or inflammation, especially of the sinuses and following injury or surgery.
In some people, oral supplementation of bromelain may cause
- changes in menstruation
- digestive upset
- an increased heart rate
People who are allergic to pineapple should avoid bromelain.
Bromelain supplements are available at health stores and online.
Probiotics are microorganisms that might offer health benefits by helping the body maintain a healthful balance of gut bacteria.
Probiotics may boost a person's immune system, which can help the body fight off allergies.
Quercetin is an antioxidant flavonoid found in many plants and foods. Research suggests that adding quercetin to the diet may help to relieve allergy symptoms.
In one
However, the evidence for its effectiveness is mixed, and according to
Quercetin is naturally present in many foods and herbs, including:
- apples
- berries
- black tea
- broccoli
- buckwheat tea
- grapes
- Ginkgo biloba
- green tea
- peppers
- red onions
- red wine
However, taking supplements of quercetin will work better in the treatment of allergies than eating foods that contain it. This is because foods contain significantly lower levels of the flavonoid.
Quercetin is generally safe for most people. It may cause headaches and tingling in the arms and legs of some people. Very high doses, especially when taken long-term, may cause kidney damage.
People can buy quercetin supplements at health stores or online.
Other natural remedies
- astragalus
- grape seed extract
- omega-3 fatty acids
- stinging nettle
- French maritime pine bark extract
- spirulina
If natural antihistamines do not reduce a person's allergy symptoms, they may need to seek alternatives.
Other methods to treat and prevent allergy symptoms include:
Avoiding the allergen
Allergy avoidance is typically the first line of defense against symptoms. Try to identify the allergen, which might be pollen, pet dander, or mold spores, and reduce exposure to it as much as possible.
Medications
Allergy medicines can cause the immune system's reaction to the allergen to calm down. Antihistamines work by breaking down histamine in the body.
Antihistamine medications can reduce symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and sinus pressure.
Medications for allergies are available OTC or by prescription and include:
- oral medications
- liquids
- nasal sprays
- eye drops
Immunotherapy
People with severe allergies may benefit from immunotherapy. This treatment is also suitable if allergy medications do not relieve symptoms.
During immunotherapy, a healthcare professional will give a person a series of injections that contain tiny amounts of the allergen. This treatment may take place over several years and aims to desensitize the body to the allergen.
For people with pollen allergies, doctors may recommend sublingual immunotherapy. This involves placing a tablet under the tongue until it dissolves.
Epinephrine treatment
Those with severe allergies may need to carry an emergency epinephrine shot (Auvi-Q, EpiPen) with them at all times. Giving this treatment at the onset of an allergic reaction can reduce symptoms and may save a person's life.
Living with allergies can be challenging, especially when symptoms are at their worst. Seek help and advice from a doctor when dealing with allergy symptoms.
Some natural substances can have antihistamine properties, meaning they can break down the chemicals that cause allergy symptoms. More evidence is needed to find out how effective these natural remedies are.
For the best chance of relief, try to limit or avoid exposure to the allergen. Practice good self-care techniques and consider using natural antihistamines.
As the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not regulate supplements, and natural remedies can interfere with certain medications, it is essential to speak to a doctor before beginning any new supplement or herbal remedy.
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Vitamin C Therapy For Allergies
Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323276
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