Some people find that herbal remedies, vitamins, or supplements effectively reduce this discomfort.
Research supporting alternative treatments is limited.
These all have some evidence to back their usefulness for allergy sufferers.
Illustration by Tara Anand for Verywell Health
Research suggests thatinflammationis a major contributor to allergy symptoms and that the alleviation of inflammation may ease symptoms.
A single 7.5-gram dose was used.
More research is needed.
The evidence supporting the use of stinging nettle for allergies is limited.
At the end of the study period, the stinging nettle supplement worked no better than the placebo.
Even so, the supplement was well tolerated, and no notable side effects were reported.
you could buy stinging nettle in several forms, includingteas, tinctures, or supplements.
Possible side effects included upset stomach, fluid retention, sweating, and diarrhea.
Quercetin
Quercetinis an antioxidant found in many plants that appears to have anti-allergy effects.
If you havekidney diseaseor are pregnant or breastfeeding, quercetin may not be safe and should be avoided.
This tree is also a source for one key in ofcinnamon spice.
Ceylon cinnamon can often be found at grocery or spice stores.
Butterbur seems to act similarly to vitamin C to ease inflammation and thereby reduce inflammation-induced allergy symptoms.
Butterbur is sold in supplement, extract, or dried forms.
Side effects include belching, headache, itchy eyes, diarrhea, and breathing problems.
The risk is especially high if you haveallergies to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, or daisies.
Bromelain
Bromelainis a group of enzymes found in pineapples that may have health benefits.
Some naturopaths believe that bromelain can help ease nasal congestion by reducing nasal inflammation.
Possible side effects of supplements include upset stomach and diarrhea.
Bromelain may interact with certain antibiotics, includingAmoxil (amoxicillin).
Do not take it if you’re being treated for a bacterial infection.
Natural products can cause side effects and negative drug interactions.
Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before taking natural allergy remedies.
Little research has been done on the effectiveness of berberine on allergies.
And the few studies that have been published have been done on animals, not humans.
However, researchers have found some evidence that berberine may reduce inflammation that causes allergic rhinitis.
In some people, it may cause bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.
you could also mix it into foods such as guacamole or hummus.
Other Alternative Allergy Treatments
Many alternative products or practices are touted as natural allergy remedies.
Second-generation antihistamines like Allegra, Claritin, and Zyrtec are generally non-drowsy and the better option for daytime use.
You may experience itching, hives, sneezing, watery eyes, asthma, headaches, or gastrointestinal discomfort.
Some also decrease inflammation or oxidative stress, which contributes to allergic reactions.
Common remedies include stinging nettle, vitamin C, quercetin, butterbur, bromelain, and probiotics.
Some alternative practicessuch as acupuncture, nasal irrigation, and exercisemay also help you manage symptoms.
Dont stop taking antihistamine medications or start using herbal or nutritional supplements without first talking to your healthcare provider.
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