Herbs For Allergies- Exposed!

These are some of the Top Natural Remedies And Herbs For Allergies:

Herbs For Allergies Can Stop Symptoms

Locally Grown Honey: Honey has long been used as both a food and a medicine. It does have some antibacterial and antiviral properties, and was often used to dress a wound before antibiotics were known. But these days honey is becoming more well known as a supposed remedy for seasonal allergies. It seems to be a very popular use in fact, and many people swear by it. However, very few studies have been produced that demonstrate honey does help allergy symptoms any more than a placebo. In fact, a study conducted at the University of Conneticut had 36 volunteers take either locally grown unprocessed honey, a popular brand of honey, or corn syrup that was made to taste like honey. The results? No group found any difference. This was the best controlled study to date. However, another informal study conducted at the University of Xavier in New Orleans found that locally grown honey DID reduce hay fever symptoms... and there are numerous anecdotal stories that substantiate this.

So, right now... the jury is still out on honey for allergies, but it is very good for you, so it can't hurt to try it. Just make sure it is the raw, locally grown stuff and not a national brand.

Nettles:

Although nettles themselves can "sting"...causing an allergic like skin reaction, they are commonly used as an herbal allergy remedy. In modern times, the German Comission E has approved nettles for use as a dieuretic and as a prostate medicine. It also shows up in herbal drugs for rhumetoid pains and general inflammation. In fact, this "anti-inflammatory" property is what makes nettles a possible herbal allergy remedy. So where is the proof that it works?

Well, a study was conducted in 1990 involving 69 participants. It was found that a nettles extract was substantially more effective at treating allergies than a placebo. 58% said it relieved most of their symptoms, and 48% found it more effective than the traditional OTC allergy treatments. Further study have confirmed nettles as an anti-allergy-symptom herb.

Dosage: One study in found that a dosage of 300mg, taken 3 times a day for a total of 900mg per day was effective. However, it is difficult to come to a conclusion on best dosage of nettles for allergies because of the variation in nettles leaves, supplement production, concentration of compounds, etc. It is also possible to take 2 - 4 grams per day of the dried leaf, or a leaf extract produced at a 1:1 ratio of leaf to liquid, taken 2-5 ml 3 times daily.This is a general guideline... and it is necessary to talk to a real doctor before you start taking any herbal supplement or extract.

Side Effects: Generally minor if any... including stomach and digestive pain and cramping, Retaining water, and a possible rash or hive occurance.

Eyebright:

This is an herb that has been described at least once as "an elegant little plant". It is small, no more than 8 inches tall, and has widespread use as a treatment against conjunctivitis...but hay fever is another matter. Unfortunately, no well designed studies have tested eyebright as an anti-allergen, anti-histamine, or anti-inflammatory. However, herbalists and other herbal medicine practioneers regularly use eyebright for allergy symptoms. It does contain flavonoid compounds, and these have are believed to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the eyes and nasal passages, thus reducing mucus production.

Dosage: Safe levels of eyebright have not been professionally established, so exact optimal, safe dosage is unknown. Be sure to obtain a professionally prepared extract or tincture of eyebright, as home made extracts could contain particles that could harm the eyes or nose. Use no more than 2 - 4 drops at a time in the affected area...either eyes or nose. Consult a doctor before using any herbal remedy

Side Effects: Tearing, redness, itching, burning, and swelling of the tissue it comes in contact with are all uncommon yet possible side effects. Be sure to speak with a medical professional before use.