by Dr. Alex Heyne Contributor

Natural Relief: 4 Chinese Herbs for Allergies

Allergies are immune system responses triggered by substances in the environment, known as allergens, that are typically harmless to most people. These allergens can range from pollen and dust mites to certain foods and medications. Allergic reactions vary from mild symptoms such as sneezing and itching to severe reactions like anaphylaxis. Allergies are increasingly prevalent worldwide, affecting millions of people of all ages and backgrounds.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), allergies are often understood as imbalances in specific organs in the body, and its interaction with the environment. TCM practitioners view allergies as disruptions in the body’s harmony, which can manifest as symptoms like congestion, inflammation, and itching. The approach to treating allergies in TCM involves addressing these imbalances through a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes.

The purpose of this blog is to introduce four Chinese herbs renowned in TCM for their efficacy in alleviating allergy symptoms naturally. Each herb offers unique properties that can help rebalance the body and strengthen its resistance to allergens. By exploring the therapeutic benefits of herbs, readers can discover safe and holistic alternatives to conventional allergy medications.

The TCM View on Allergies

In TCM, allergies are perceived through a lens that encompasses both the individual’s internal constitution and external environmental influences. TCM views allergies not just as a reaction to specific allergens, but as a reflection of underlying imbalances within the body’s systems.

According to TCM principles, allergies can manifest differently in each person, depending on their unique constitution and the specific pattern of imbalance present. Symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and skin rashes are often seen as signs of internal disharmony, which may involve imbalances in the lung, spleen, or liver meridians.

Furthermore, TCM emphasizes the role of external factors such as climate, diet, and emotional stress in exacerbating allergic reactions. By addressing both internal imbalances and external influences, TCM offers a comprehensive approach to managing allergies and restoring the body’s natural equilibrium.

Chinese Herbs for Allergies

Chinese herbal medicine operates within a holistic framework, aiming to restore harmony and balance to the body as a whole. Unlike modern biomedicine, which often focuses on symptom management, Chinese herbal medicine addresses the root causes of health issues, including allergies.

Chinese herbs work synergistically to regulate the body’s systems, strengthen the immune response, and alleviate allergy symptoms. For instance, herbs like Xanthium fruit and Schisandra berry possess anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce nasal congestion and itching, while Astragalus root and Licorice root support the body’s resilience against allergens by enhancing immune function and reducing stress.

However, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner before using Chinese herbs for allergies. A TCM practitioner can conduct a thorough assessment of the individual’s constitution, identify the underlying pattern of imbalance, and prescribe an appropriate herbal formula tailored to their specific needs. This personalized approach ensures both safety and efficacy in managing allergies through Chinese herbal medicine.

4 Chinese Herbs to Help with Allergies

Nettle (Xun Ma)

Nettle has been valued for centuries in TCM for its versatile therapeutic properties. Nettle is classified as a cooling herb with a sweet and slightly bitter taste, associated with the lung and liver meridians.

Traditionally, nettle has been used to clear heat, eliminate toxins, and dispel wind-dampness, making it an effective remedy for various ailments, including allergies. Nettle is particularly beneficial for allergy relief due to its ability to inhibit histamine release and reduce inflammation, making it effective in alleviating symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and itching.

Additionally, nettle is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which support overall immune health and help the body cope with allergens more effectively.

In a 2018 study, the effect of supplementing chicken drinking water with 1% stinging nettle and neem on antibody responses to different infectious bursal disease (IBD) vaccines and vaccination schedules was examined. Indigenous chicks negative for specific antibodies were divided into groups receiving various vaccine combinations and supplemented with stinging nettle or neem.

Weekly blood samples were taken to monitor immune responses. Stinging nettle and neem enhanced antibody responses in groups receiving a local inactivated K1 vaccine. Stinging nettle resulted in earlier and persistent high antibody levels in certain groups.

The combination of local and imported vaccines yielded the highest antibody titers. The study recommended incorporating stinging nettle supplementation and a prime-boost vaccination strategy using locally derived vaccines.

Peppermint (Bo He)

In TCM, peppermint is classified as having a pungent and cooling nature, making it particularly effective in clearing heat and dispelling pathogenic factors from the body. Peppermint plays a vital role in addressing allergy-related symptoms, especially nasal congestion and respiratory issues.

Its natural menthol content acts as a decongestant, helping to open up the airways and relieve sinus pressure, while its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritation in the respiratory tract. Peppermint can be consumed in various forms to alleviate allergy symptoms, including as a refreshing herbal tea, inhaled through steam inhalation, applied topically as an essential oil, or ingested in capsule form.

According to a 2006 scientific review, peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) is a commonly consumed Chinese medicinal herb known for its traditional medicinal uses. Research has highlighted its bioactive properties, including antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, and antitumor effects, attributed to phenolic compounds like rosmarinic acid and flavonoids such as eriocitrin, luteolin, and hesperidin. The essential oil of peppermint contains menthol and menthone, contributing to its therapeutic effects. Animal studies suggest peppermint’s potential for GI relaxation, pain relief, immune modulation, and cancer prevention.

Chrysanthemum (Ju Hua)

Chrysanthemum, with its rich history spanning millennia, holds a revered place in TCM as both a therapeutic herb and a symbol of vitality and longevity. Known for its cooling properties, chrysanthemum has been used to treat various ailments for centuries.

In the realm of allergies, chrysanthemum shines for its potent antihistamine properties, effectively combating allergic reactions by inhibiting histamine release and reducing inflammation. Chrysanthemum tea, brewed from the dried flowers, is a popular and soothing remedy for allergy relief. Additionally, chrysanthemum can be incorporated into herbal formulas, used as a compress for skin irritation, or even added to baths for a calming effect on allergic skin conditions.

A 2023 scientific review explored the nutritional profile, phytochemistry, and biological activities of different Chrysanthemum species, emphasizing their diverse metabolites and bioactive constituents. Notable compounds include cyanidin-3-O-(6″-O-malonyl) glucoside, rutin, quercetin, and others. These compounds hold potential health benefits, leading to their incorporation into supplementary food products and pharmaceutical drugs.

Watch: Top 10 Medicinal Herbs for Longevity

Licorice Root (Gan Cao)

Licorice root is revered for its harmonizing properties, often used to balance and regulate the effects of other herbs in herbal formulas. Within the context of TCM, licorice root is classified as having a sweet and neutral nature, making it suitable for a wide range of conditions.

Licorice root’s anti-inflammatory properties are particularly noteworthy in alleviating allergy symptoms, as it helps to reduce swelling, ease respiratory discomfort, and soothe irritated mucous membranes.

Licorice root extracts have been traditionally used to treat various ailments including throat infections, tuberculosis, respiratory and liver diseases, exhibiting antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. As traditional medicine gains attention for treating chronic diseases, screening medicinal plants like licorice for potential new compounds becomes crucial.

A 2021 comprehensive review examined the ethnopharmacological uses, phytochemistry, biological activities, clinical evidence, and toxicology of licorice, serving as a valuable resource for future research. The study focused on elucidating the pharmacological effects of licorice and its flavonoids such as isoliquiritigenin, liquiritigenin, lichalocone, and glabridin, along with their molecular mechanisms. Licorice shows promise as a natural alternative for treating emerging disorders with minimal side effects, offering insights for further development and clinical use.

Watch: 7 Most Powerful Healing Herbs

Conclusion

In summary, we’ve explored four potent Chinese herbs renowned for their efficacy in allergy relief. From the cooling properties of nettle to the harmonizing effects of licorice root, each herb offers unique benefits targeting various allergy symptoms.

However, it’s crucial to underscore the importance of consulting with a TCM practitioner before incorporating these herbs into your wellness regimen. A TCM practitioner can provide personalized advice tailored to your specific constitution and health needs, ensuring safe and effective use of these herbs.

Moreover, I encourage integrating traditional and holistic approaches for managing allergies, combining the wisdom of TCM with modern medical practices for comprehensive care. By embracing a holistic approach, individuals can optimize their health and well-being, finding relief from allergy symptoms while nurturing overall balance and vitality.

Read More: TCM Herbs for Respiratory Health

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