Herbal Remedy for Allergies - All-Natural Cures

Allergies are resulted from the over reaction of our body immune system towards allergens (things that trigger allergies) such as grass, dust, pollens, fungi, molds, particular foods, and any other things containing chemicals which include cosmetics, soaps, perfumes, cleaning agents, and sunscreens. Symptoms of allergies are various depending on the allergens. Commonly, people who suffer from allergies tend to have watery eyes, repeated sneezing, runny nose, skin irritation (e.g. inflammation, rashes, itching), and sinus headaches. Others may also have wheezing, shortness of breath, diarrhea, nausea, and chronic indigestion. Many plants around us have healing properties to cure or lessen the symptoms of allergies. Here are some commonly used ones:

1. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

This root is the most common remedy used to relieve allergies. This tropical plant is about two feet in height, has lanced-shaped leaves as well as yellow- or white-colored flowers. Some symptoms that can be relieved by ginger among others are colds, nausea, arthritis, and asthma. Ginger can also be used for protecting our digestive system and liver from parasites and toxins. The root can be used fresh or dried. Fresh ginger is beneficial for dryness and heat symptoms, while the dried one is used for relieving chill and dampness. For preventing infection, chopped ginger roots are usually used; meanwhile, powdered ginger is used for asthma and other allergies.

2. Eucalypts (Eucalyptus globulus)

Eucalypts is a member of clove family. This plant is used for many symptoms of allergies such as infections, fevers, colds, flu, and sore throat. Eucalypts is also beneficial chest infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia as it can clear nasal passages, improve blood flow in muscles, loose phlegm, and protect our skin from bug bites. To relieve the symptoms, the plant is commonly made into aromatic or essential oil. Besides made into oil, eucalypts is also made into capsules and teas.

3. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

When accidentally touches the skin, this plant's leaves can leave pain that can last for one hour or more. To relieve it, rub crushed Yellow dock leaves onto the stung area. Although quite dangerous (still, not toxic), nettle has many healing properties. Its leaves, roots and seeds are particularly beneficial for our health. Drinking nettle daily can help breastfeeding mothers maintaining lactation, treat anemia (as it is high in iron, Vitamin C, and chlorophyll), and serve children with good source of vitamins and minerals. Nettle can also be alternative to processed milk and high-sugared juices since dark green nettle leaves taste like milk. The plant's root extract can relieve seasonal allergies symptoms (e.g. watery eyes, itching, and sinus congestion), while its fresh leaves and seeds are made into tinctures and medicinal oil.