High doses can also interfere with the absorption of other essential vitamins and minerals. You can buy vitamin C in supplement form, or you can get it from vitamin C—rich foods like:. Quercetin is an antioxidant found in many plants that appears to have anti-allergy effects.

Studies in rats suggest that quercitin may block the pathways that trigger the release of histamine into the bloodstream. It is thought to do so by preventing specialized blood cells, called mast cells , from breaking open and releasing histamine.

A study conducted in involving 66 subjects with seasonal allergies—half of whom were given a milligram quercetin supplement and half of whom were given a placebo—reported a reduction in eye itching, sneezing, and nasal discharge after four weeks of use.

Quercetin is available as a nutritional supplement and is found in a lot of foods and herbs, including:. Side effects include headache or upset stomach.

If you have kidney disease or are pregnant or breastfeeding, quercetin may not be safe and should be avoided. Butterbur Petasites hybridus is a shrub native to Europe, parts of Asia, and North America.

It has been used medicinally since the Middle Ages for the treatment of urinary tract symptoms, stomach upset, headaches, allergic rhinitis, and other conditions. With respect to allergies, butterbur is thought to ease inflammation in the same way as vitamin C and thereby reduce inflammation-induced allergy symptoms.

A study in the journal Pharmaceuticals reported that a butterbur extract used for up to eight weeks afforded significant and sustained relief of seasonal allergy symptoms. However, the findings were limited by the fact that Butterbur is sold in supplement, extract, or dried forms.

Side effects include belching, headache, itchy eyes, diarrhea, and breathing problems. Some people are allergic to butterbur and should avoid the product altogether. The risk is especially high if you have allergies to ragweed , chrysanthemums, marigolds, or daisies.

Bromelain is a group of enzymes found in pineapples that may have health benefits. Historically, pineapple has been used in Central and South America to treat a variety of illnesses, including digestive disorders and sinus pain.

Some naturopaths believe that it can help ease nasal congestion by reducing nasal inflammation. A small study from Italy reported that people with seasonal allergies given a twice-daily, milligram dose of bromelain had high levels of the enzyme in their nasal passages, suggesting an anti-allergy benefit.

However, the study did not investigate whether the high concentration offered any actual benefit in terms of relief from sneezing, runny nose, nasal stuffiness, or post-nasal drip.

Bromelain supplements are a better source of the enzyme than fresh pineapple. In fresh pineapple, the concentration of bromelain is highest in inedible parts, like the stem and core. Possible side effects include upset stomach and diarrhea.

Bromelain may interact with certain antibiotics, including Amoxil amoxicillin , and should be avoided if you are being treated for a bacterial infection. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that naturally reside in your gut which are thought to be beneficial to your digestive and immune health.

Recent studies suggest that they may even help with allergies. A review of studies published in Frontiers of Immunology found that, based on an evaluation of 28 human trials, probiotics significantly relieved symptoms and improved quality of life in adults and children with allergic rhinitis. It is hypothesized that the normal balance of microorganisms in the digestive tract known as the gut microbiome plays a central role in the immune response.

An imbalance of microorganisms, on the other hand, may lead to an abnormal immune response and the development of immune disorders like allergies. By restoring balance to the gut microbiome, probiotics may potentially temper allergic reactions. That's not to say that all probiotics are created equal.

Of the many different probiotics used in supplements, a small handful can produce histamines. These include Lactobacilli casei, Lactobacilli bulgaricus, and Lactobacilli saerimneri. Taking these probiotic bacteria can potentially cause a reaction in people who are highly sensitive to histamine.

With that said, the majority of probiotic organisms do not produce histamine or produce amounts unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. In addition to supplements, you can also get probiotics from fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kombucha, pickles, tempeh, kimchi, miso, sourdough bread, and sour cream.

Natural products can cause side effects and negative drug interactions. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before taking natural allergy remedies. Many alternative products or practices are touted as natural allergy remedies.

While most generally lack robust evidence to back them up, there are two that are believed to help:. These approaches may be most effective when combined with other allergy treatments, such as over-the-counter OTC antihistamine medications like:.

First-generation antihistamines like Benadryl, Chlor-Trimeton, Dimetapp, and Tavist can cause drowsiness and may be more appropriate at night to help you sleep. Second-generation antihistamines like Allegra, Claritin, and Zyrtec are generally non-drowsy and the better option for daytime use.

If allergies are severe and neither natural nor OTC antihistamines help, speak with your healthcare provider about stronger prescription antihistamines like Clarinex desloratadine , Vistaril hydroxyzine , and Xyzal levocetirizine. There are also antihistamine nasal sprays like Astepro azelastine and Patanase olopatadine and antihistamine eye drops like Emadine emedastine difumarate , Lastacraft alcaftadine , and Livostin levocabastine available by prescription.

Natural antihistamines may help you control your seasonal allergies. Common ones are stinging nettle, vitamin C, quercetin, butterbur, bromelain, and probiotics. Some alternative practices—such as acupuncture, nasal irrigation, and exercise—may also help you manage symptoms.

Arguably, the most important thing to do if you have seasonal allergies is to identify and avoid allergy triggers as best as you can. However, hydration is important for controlling your allergies.

Dehydration is believed to increase levels of histamine in your body, which simulates an allergy attack. Natural antihistamines work by blocking histamine activity in your body, just as antihistamine medications do. Some also decrease inflammation or oxidative stress, which contributes to allergic reactions.

Histamine: the stuff allergies are made of. American Academy of Allergies, Asthma, and Immunology. Outdoor allergens. Indoor allergens. Easton L, Vaid S, Nagel AK, Venci JV, Fortuna RJ. Stinging nettle Urtica dioica : An unusual case of galactorrhea.

Am J Case Rep. Bakshaee M, Mohammad Pour AH, Esmaeili M, et al. Efficacy of supportive therapy of allergic rhinitis by stinging nettle Urtica dioica root extract: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical trial. Iran J Pharm Res. Bakhshaee M, Mohammad pour AHM, Esmaeli M, et al.

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Stinging nettle. Han M, Lee D, Lee SH, Kim TH. Oxidative stress and antioxidant pathway in allergic rhinitis. Antioxidants Basel. Vollbracht C, Raithel M, Krick B, Kraft K, Hagel AF. Intravenous vitamin C in the treatment of allergies: an interim subgroup analysis of a long-term observational study.

J Int Med Res. Office of Dietary Supplements. Vitamin C: fact sheet for health professionals. Hattori M, Mizuguchi H, Baba Y, et al. Int Immunopharmacol.

Yamada A, Shirai M, Inaba Y, Takara T. Effects of repeated oral intake of a quercetin-containing supplement on allergic reaction: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind parallel-group study. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. Dabeek WM, Marra MV. Dietary quercetin and kaempferol: Bioavailability and potential cardiovascular-related bioactivity in humans.

Published Sep National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Blosa, M, Uricher J, Nebel S, et al. Treatment of early allergic and late inflammatory symptoms of allergic rhinitis with Petasites Hybridus leaf extract Ze : results of a noninterventional observational study in Switzerland.

Passali D, Passali GC, Bellussi LM, et al. Bromelain's penetration into the blood and sinonasal mucosa in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. Acta Otorhinolaryngol Ital. Probiotics: what you need to know. Some studies suggest that honey may reduce inflammation, which could relieve inflamed airways and make it easier to breathe.

A study of nasal spray that contains honey found it offered benefits when used along with other treatments like antihistamines for allergic rhinitis symptoms. Honey is often mixed into tea, foods, or even taken by the spoonful. Capsules, tablets, and chewable gummies are available as supplements.

Nasal sprays are an option, too. Propolis is a sticky component of honey that may help to relieve allergy symptoms. It has been shown to offer benefits in reducing allergic symptoms in asthma.

It's available as an oral supplement lozenges, capsules but some products can be applied to the skin. It's not uncommon for some people to have allergies to honey.

Avoid any propolis products if you have an allergy to bees. Keep in mind that honey has a high sugar content, which may present a risk to people with diabetes or other health conditions affected by sugar intake.

It's also to be avoided in children less than 1 year old. The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation recommends acupuncture as one way to treat allergic rhinitis.

Acupuncture is a healing practice that originated in China over 5, years ago. It involves stimulating points on the body with needles, pressure, or electrical probes.

These points are believed to be connected by pathways creating an energy flow that affects overall health. Although acupuncture has been used for allergy treatment, there have been no large, randomized controlled trials to verify its effectiveness.

However, a large systematic review looked at several studies on the effects of acupuncture on allergic rhinitis. The results suggested acupuncture can improve nasal symptoms for people who have allergies, but the reason for this improvement wasn't clear.

The procedure was found to be safe and without adverse effects. Acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy in addition to conventional allergy treatment. You would get a series of weekly or twice-weekly treatments for several weeks with an acupuncturist, and then follow-up treatments as needed.

Acupuncture is generally regarded as safe, and side effects are not expected. However, it is best to look for a practitioner who is licensed, certified, or registered as required by your state. The herb butterbur Petasites hybridus is a shrub-like plant that grows in northern Asia, Europe, and parts of North America.

Extracts from the herb have been used in folk medicine for migraine headaches, stomach cramps, cough, allergic rhinitis, and asthma. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health says studies suggest root or leaf extracts of butterbur may help relieve allergic rhinitis.

However, it has not been found to be useful for asthma or allergic skin reactions. Commercial butterbur extracts are made from the roots or leaves of the plant.

They're available in capsule or tablet form to be taken by mouth. Some studies have shown a benefit when commercial butterbur supplements are taken twice daily.

Check the label or speak to your healthcare provider about precise dosing. Side effects of butterbur may include indigestion, headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and drowsiness. Butterbur is in the ragweed plant family. People who are allergic to ragweed , marigolds, daisies, or chrysanthemums should avoid butterbur and products that contain it.

Do not take the raw butterbur herb on its own or as a tea, extract, or capsule. It contains substances called pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can be toxic to the liver and lungs and may cause cancer.

Women who are pregnant or nursing, children, and people with kidney or liver disease should not take butterbur in any form. Quercetin is an antioxidant, which helps prevent damage to cells. It reduces inflammatory cells and proteins, especially in skin.

It is found naturally in foods such as apples with the skin on , berries, red grapes, red onions, capers, and black tea. It is also available in supplement form. Some people use it for allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis eczema , and asthma.

In the lab, quercetin helps restrict the release of histamine, a chemical released by cells in allergic reactions. It can also inhibit the formation of IgE antibodies, another component of the allergic response. Quercetin is chemically related to the existing anti-allergy drug cromolyn sodium.

Quercetin has potential for the development of allergy and asthma therapy. However, research has largely been limited to its effects in test tube or animal studies, without clinical studies of humans. There is some evidence that it may help reduce the effects of allergic skin reactions, such as atopic dermatitis.

There are numerous dietary sources of quercetin. Quercetin is also available as a nutritional supplement in tablet or capsule form. A typical dose for allergies and hay fever is between milligrams mg and mg three times a day. Quercetin should be avoided by people with kidney disease, as well as people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats. These are fats your body needs but can't make itself, so you need to get them from your diet.

Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids include fish, walnuts, vegetable oil, flax seeds, and leafy vegetables. Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body, which play a role in allergies and asthma.

Omega-3 fatty acid supplements have been shown in research to reduce some of the effects of asthma and atopic dermatitis. However, many studies are on animal models or in the test tube, rather than human studies.

Researchers are looking at whether taking omega-3 fish oil supplements when you're pregnant can reduce atopic dermatitis and food allergies in infants.

There have been some positive findings, but this research is still very preliminary. Common sources of omega-3 fatty acids include the following:. Side effects of fish oil may include indigestion and a fishy aftertaste. Fish oil has a mild "blood-thinning" effect. If you are taking Coumadin warfarin or heparin, or are at risk of bleeding complications, do not take fish oil without consulting a healthcare provider.

Fish oil should not be taken two weeks before or after surgery. Stinging nettle Urtica dioica is an herb that may reduce the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

This natural remedy is thought by some to be one of the most effective herbal supplements for relieving allergy symptoms. One randomized double-blind clinical trial in humans found that stinging nettle seemed to reduce allergy symptoms.

There were some changes in clinical measures such as eosinophil counts a type of white blood cell involved in allergic reactions in nasal smears. However, these are very preliminary findings, and more studies are needed.

Stinging nettle can be used as a tea. Extracts may be found in a variety of supplements for allergy support. Stinging nettle has diuretic properties, meaning it causes your kidneys to make more urine.

It should not be used unless you consult your healthcare provider, especially if you are taking diuretics for fluid retention. Probiotics are live organisms, or "good" bacteria, that help improve the health of the digestive and immune systems.

Prebiotics are a type of fiber that encourages the growth of probiotic bacteria. Added to infant formula, they may help improve immune responses. Research has looked at whether probiotics during pregnancy and breastfeeding can reduce the risk of eczema in at-risk infants.

The World Allergy Organization WAO says the evidence is limited for using probiotics for pregnant and breastfeeding women for allergy prevention. However, they still recommend probiotic use by those whose infants would be at high risk of developing an allergy.

They also recommend probiotic use by those infants. The WAO also found that the evidence for using prebiotics is limited. However, for infants who are not exclusively breastfed, supplementing with prebiotics may be considered.

They note there are no studies of prebiotic supplements for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Because of this, they make no recommendation for maternal use of prebiotics. Probiotics are available in a variety of forms, including supplemental drinks, kefir, yogurt, and capsules. Prebiotics are found in fermented foods.

They are also available in tablets, capsules, and chewable products. Probiotics and prebiotics are generally safe. But if you are sensitive to dairy products or other possible ingredients, check for sources that are safest for you.

Black cumin seed oil has several active chemical compounds, including thymoquinone. Research evidence suggests it may relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

In one study, people with allergic rhinitis were exposed to black cumin seed oil by smelling it or rubbing it on the forehead. They found they had reduced nasal congestion, nasal itching, runny nose, and sneezing attacks.

Another study used black cumin seed oil in the form of nasal drops to treat allergic rhinitis. A six-week treatment course showed good results in relieving symptoms. Black cumin seed oil is sold in capsules as well as in bulk oil form. It can be taken as a supplement once or twice a day.

Or, as in the studies of rhinitis, it can be rubbed on the skin, smelled, or applied as nose drops. Studies have found no significant side effects for black seed oil. However, there is always the possibility of a skin reaction when applied topically.

Test a small amount on your skin before using it consistently. Continue to monitor your skin for reactions while using it for any length of time. Supplements aren't always tested for quality and are largely unregulated, so the content of a product may differ from what's listed on its label.

Safety for certain individuals e. is also not established. To ensure that what's on the label is indeed what you are getting, opt for supplements that have been voluntarily submitted for testing by an independent certifying body like U.

Pharmacopeia USP , ConsumerLab, or NSF International. Brands certified organic by the U. Department of Agriculture USDA can also reduce your risk of exposure to unwanted chemicals and pesticides.

Always talk to your healthcare provider before taking a supplement for allergies or any other concern. Allergy symptoms may be relieved with changes in your environment, including the use of a humidifier or an air purifier.

The moist, warm air from a humidifier can relieve nasal passages irritated by dry air. But check with your allergist before using one to talk about the potential risks, too. The additional moisture can promote dust mites, already the top cause of indoor allergies. It also can lead to mold spores.

If not, the exposures can contribute to allergy symptoms. Air purifiers also can remove allergens. A high-efficiency particulate air HEPA filter will remove mold, dust, pollen, and other allergens from indoor air when used properly.

Check with your healthcare provider about your specific allergies and other steps you can take to limit your exposure to allergens. They may include:. Many types of natural remedies are thought to help ease allergy symptoms.

These include exercise, nasal irrigation, probiotics, prebiotics, and various herbs and supplements. For many of these, research is still limited on how they affect allergies.

Talk with your doctor first to let them know your symptoms. They can help answer your questions about how natural treatments might work with your other allergy medications. Prossegger J, Huber D, Grafetstätter C, et al. Winter exercise reduces allergic airway inflammation: A randomized controlled study.

Int J Environ Res Public Health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Drobyshev VA, Shpagina LA, Karmanovskaya SA, Zaitseva IG. Vestn Otorinolaringol.

Güémez A, García E. Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis by Naegleria fowleri : Pathogenesis and Treatments. doi: Forman HJ, Zhang H. Targeting oxidative stress in disease: promise and limitations of antioxidant therapy.

Nat Rev Drug Discov. Han M, Lee D, Lee SH, Kim TH. Oxidative stress and antioxidant pathway in allergic rhinitis. Antioxidants Basel. Vollbracht C, Raithel M, Krick B, Kraft K, Hagel AF. Intravenous vitamin C in the treatment of allergies: an interim subgroup analysis of a long-term observational study.

J Int Med Res. García-García C, Kim M, Baik I. Associations of dietary vitamin A and C intake with asthma, allergic rhinitis, and allergic respiratory diseases. Nutr Res Pract.

National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements. Vitamin C: fact sheet for health professionals. Tian HQ, Cheng L. The role of vitamin D in allergic rhinitis.

Asia Pac Allergy. Bakhshaee M, Sharifian M, Esmatinia F, Rasoulian B, Mohebbi M. Therapeutic effect of vitamin D supplementation on allergic rhinitis. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol.

Joudi M, Farid Hosseini R, Khoshkhui M, et al. Effects of serum vitamin D and efficacy of subcutaneous immunotherapy in adult patients with allergic rhinitis. Allergy Asthma Immunol Res. Vitamin D fact sheet for health professionals.

Denisow B, Denisow-Pietrzyk M. Biological and therapeutic properties of bee pollen: a review. J Sci Food Agric. Samarghandian S, Farkhondeh T, Samini F.

Honey and health: a review of recent clinical research. Pharmacognosy Res. Wahida Abd Manab F, Abdullah B, Shukri N, Musa M, Mutalib N, Latiff A, et al. Efficacy of intranasal honey spray: 'as an adjunct treatment for allergic rhinitis'.

UTM Source. UTM Campaign. UTM Content. UTM Term. UTM Medium. Campaign Reference. Source URL. Center Record id. Current Patient? Do you want to share the article via email? Yes No. The Best Natural Remedies for Seasonal Allergies. Dedicated Senior Medical Center. What Are Allergies?

Are You Making Your Allergies Worse? Avoid the following to prevent exacerbating your allergy symptoms: Using cheap air filters.

Studies show that quality air filtration can reduce airborne allergens and potentially relieve allergies. Opt for HEPA high-efficiency particulate air filters.

Creating a tea of blend of goldenrod and horehound tea is a guaranteed way to combat congestion. A word of warning though, if you are allergic to flowers in the daisy family, this will likely cause a reaction. Out of all the herbal remedies for seasonal allergies, Butterbur by far has the most research backing it.

It has a reputation for relieving symptoms of allergies, migraines, and asthma and is has been tested extensively with positive results. The one downside with this herb is that when unprocessed it contains a chemical called pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause liver damage and other illnesses, so this is not a DIY remedy.

You will need to buy this in a tablet or oil form to avoid the negative effects. This is a foolproof way to clear your sinuses. When prepared fresh it especially potent, so be cautious because the aroma is far from gentle.

Think of this herb as a friend to your lungs. With soothing and healing properties it is a respiratory remedy that can fight irritation or inflammation.

It is an excellent supportive herb in a tea and will leave you feeling calm and like you can breathe deeply again. This is an herb that has been around for ages.

In fact, we can trace the medicinal uses back as far as Ancient Greece. While the uses of Stinging Nettle have varied over the centuries, it has been proven to be an effective anti-inflammatory and even has the ability to inhibit multiple inflammatory events. It is an herb that is going to put in a ton of work for you and target several areas at once.

A tried and true classic. Rosemary is one of those herbs that is super accessible and multifunctional. Recently it has been credited in helping relieve asthma symptoms because of the r osmarinic acid found in it. Several studies suggest vitamin D supplements may reduce inflammation and allergic reactions.

One study showed that vitamin D-deficient participants taking vitamin D supplements along with antihistamines allergy medications had improved allergy symptoms after eight weeks.

There is no evidence, however, that taking vitamin D without medication would have the same effect. And it isn't clear whether taking supplements is helpful for people who already have optimal levels of vitamin D. Another study found that response to allergy immunotherapy allergy shots in relieving allergic rhinitis was better in subjects with optimal vitamin D levels.

The response was worse in those who were deficient in vitamin D. If you have been diagnosed as vitamin D deficient, your healthcare provider will recommend the supplements you need.

Few foods offer vitamin D apart from its addition to milk and fortified cereals but it is available through supplements and sun exposure. The United States recommended dietary allowances for vitamin D vary by age. Adults up to age 70 need international units IU of vitamin D daily. Those aged 70 and older should get IU of vitamin D daily.

It is possible to take too much vitamin D, which raises calcium levels in the blood. This can result in kidney stones and calcium deposits in the heart and other organs. Exposure to sunlight also raises vitamin D levels.

However, you should avoid too much exposure since it can lead to sunburn or skin cancer. Honey is made from flower nectar in beehives. It has been linked to a number of health benefits, including immune system benefits.

Some studies suggest that honey may reduce inflammation, which could relieve inflamed airways and make it easier to breathe. A study of nasal spray that contains honey found it offered benefits when used along with other treatments like antihistamines for allergic rhinitis symptoms.

Honey is often mixed into tea, foods, or even taken by the spoonful. Capsules, tablets, and chewable gummies are available as supplements. Nasal sprays are an option, too. Propolis is a sticky component of honey that may help to relieve allergy symptoms.

It has been shown to offer benefits in reducing allergic symptoms in asthma. It's available as an oral supplement lozenges, capsules but some products can be applied to the skin. It's not uncommon for some people to have allergies to honey. Avoid any propolis products if you have an allergy to bees.

Keep in mind that honey has a high sugar content, which may present a risk to people with diabetes or other health conditions affected by sugar intake. It's also to be avoided in children less than 1 year old.

The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation recommends acupuncture as one way to treat allergic rhinitis. Acupuncture is a healing practice that originated in China over 5, years ago.

It involves stimulating points on the body with needles, pressure, or electrical probes. These points are believed to be connected by pathways creating an energy flow that affects overall health. Although acupuncture has been used for allergy treatment, there have been no large, randomized controlled trials to verify its effectiveness.

However, a large systematic review looked at several studies on the effects of acupuncture on allergic rhinitis. The results suggested acupuncture can improve nasal symptoms for people who have allergies, but the reason for this improvement wasn't clear.

The procedure was found to be safe and without adverse effects. Acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy in addition to conventional allergy treatment. You would get a series of weekly or twice-weekly treatments for several weeks with an acupuncturist, and then follow-up treatments as needed.

Acupuncture is generally regarded as safe, and side effects are not expected. However, it is best to look for a practitioner who is licensed, certified, or registered as required by your state.

The herb butterbur Petasites hybridus is a shrub-like plant that grows in northern Asia, Europe, and parts of North America. Extracts from the herb have been used in folk medicine for migraine headaches, stomach cramps, cough, allergic rhinitis, and asthma.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health says studies suggest root or leaf extracts of butterbur may help relieve allergic rhinitis. However, it has not been found to be useful for asthma or allergic skin reactions. Commercial butterbur extracts are made from the roots or leaves of the plant.

They're available in capsule or tablet form to be taken by mouth. Some studies have shown a benefit when commercial butterbur supplements are taken twice daily.

Check the label or speak to your healthcare provider about precise dosing. Side effects of butterbur may include indigestion, headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and drowsiness.

Butterbur is in the ragweed plant family. People who are allergic to ragweed , marigolds, daisies, or chrysanthemums should avoid butterbur and products that contain it. Do not take the raw butterbur herb on its own or as a tea, extract, or capsule.

It contains substances called pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can be toxic to the liver and lungs and may cause cancer. Women who are pregnant or nursing, children, and people with kidney or liver disease should not take butterbur in any form.

Quercetin is an antioxidant, which helps prevent damage to cells. It reduces inflammatory cells and proteins, especially in skin. It is found naturally in foods such as apples with the skin on , berries, red grapes, red onions, capers, and black tea.

It is also available in supplement form. Some people use it for allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis eczema , and asthma. In the lab, quercetin helps restrict the release of histamine, a chemical released by cells in allergic reactions.

It can also inhibit the formation of IgE antibodies, another component of the allergic response. Quercetin is chemically related to the existing anti-allergy drug cromolyn sodium.

Quercetin has potential for the development of allergy and asthma therapy. However, research has largely been limited to its effects in test tube or animal studies, without clinical studies of humans. There is some evidence that it may help reduce the effects of allergic skin reactions, such as atopic dermatitis.

There are numerous dietary sources of quercetin. Quercetin is also available as a nutritional supplement in tablet or capsule form. A typical dose for allergies and hay fever is between milligrams mg and mg three times a day. Quercetin should be avoided by people with kidney disease, as well as people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats. These are fats your body needs but can't make itself, so you need to get them from your diet. Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids include fish, walnuts, vegetable oil, flax seeds, and leafy vegetables.

Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body, which play a role in allergies and asthma. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements have been shown in research to reduce some of the effects of asthma and atopic dermatitis.

However, many studies are on animal models or in the test tube, rather than human studies. Researchers are looking at whether taking omega-3 fish oil supplements when you're pregnant can reduce atopic dermatitis and food allergies in infants.

There have been some positive findings, but this research is still very preliminary. Common sources of omega-3 fatty acids include the following:.

Side effects of fish oil may include indigestion and a fishy aftertaste. Fish oil has a mild "blood-thinning" effect.

If you are taking Coumadin warfarin or heparin, or are at risk of bleeding complications, do not take fish oil without consulting a healthcare provider. Fish oil should not be taken two weeks before or after surgery. Stinging nettle Urtica dioica is an herb that may reduce the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

This natural remedy is thought by some to be one of the most effective herbal supplements for relieving allergy symptoms. One randomized double-blind clinical trial in humans found that stinging nettle seemed to reduce allergy symptoms.

There were some changes in clinical measures such as eosinophil counts a type of white blood cell involved in allergic reactions in nasal smears. However, these are very preliminary findings, and more studies are needed. Stinging nettle can be used as a tea.

Extracts may be found in a variety of supplements for allergy support. Stinging nettle has diuretic properties, meaning it causes your kidneys to make more urine. It should not be used unless you consult your healthcare provider, especially if you are taking diuretics for fluid retention.

Probiotics are live organisms, or "good" bacteria, that help improve the health of the digestive and immune systems. Prebiotics are a type of fiber that encourages the growth of probiotic bacteria.

Added to infant formula, they may help improve immune responses. Research has looked at whether probiotics during pregnancy and breastfeeding can reduce the risk of eczema in at-risk infants. The World Allergy Organization WAO says the evidence is limited for using probiotics for pregnant and breastfeeding women for allergy prevention.

However, they still recommend probiotic use by those whose infants would be at high risk of developing an allergy. They also recommend probiotic use by those infants. The WAO also found that the evidence for using prebiotics is limited.

However, for infants who are not exclusively breastfed, supplementing with prebiotics may be considered. They note there are no studies of prebiotic supplements for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Because of this, they make no recommendation for maternal use of prebiotics. Probiotics are available in a variety of forms, including supplemental drinks, kefir, yogurt, and capsules. Prebiotics are found in fermented foods. They are also available in tablets, capsules, and chewable products.

Probiotics and prebiotics are generally safe. But if you are sensitive to dairy products or other possible ingredients, check for sources that are safest for you.

Black cumin seed oil has several active chemical compounds, including thymoquinone. Research evidence suggests it may relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis. In one study, people with allergic rhinitis were exposed to black cumin seed oil by smelling it or rubbing it on the forehead.

They found they had reduced nasal congestion, nasal itching, runny nose, and sneezing attacks. Another study used black cumin seed oil in the form of nasal drops to treat allergic rhinitis.