By now we are used to it, with the spring the lawns, gardens and balconies are filled with colorful flowers and we… sneeze and our eyes tingle and water. Allergic rhinitis is estimated to affect 40% of the world population. However, respiratory allergy does not affect only in spring and can keep us company for several months a year based on the substances that can trigger this hypersensitivity in us. So what to do to counteract the symptoms of allergy? Let's see the best remedies based on scientific studies.
Probiotics and allergies
At first glance it may seem strange that probiotics taken by mouth can have an influence on respiratory allergies, yet this is exactly what the latest scientific research testifies. There is in fact a connection between the gut and the lungs. After all, it is sufficient to think that respiratory allergies are often accompanied by food allergies. Well, it has been observed that the intake of probiotics, in addition to supporting the health of the gut microbiota, is able to relieve the symptoms of respiratory allergies (Jakubczyk et al, Front Microbiol, 2021). For example, taking probiotics such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis reduces the symptoms of allergies to birch and alder. Lactobacillus acidophilus has also been shown to reduce watery eyes and allergic rhinitis. All bacteria of the Lactobacillus strain contribute to reducing inflammation and counteracting asthma, which is often associated with allergic reactions (Jakubczyk et al, Front Microbiol, 2021).
Propolis and allergies
The intake of propolis has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory and anti-asthma action, useful against allergic rhinitis but also atopic dermatitis and food allergies. In addition, propolis is well tolerated and without side effects. It is believed that the anti-allergy action of propolis is due to the antioxidant substances it contains, such as kaempferol, pinocembrin and galangin (Liew et al, Front Pharmacol, 2021).
Peppermint and allergies
Peppermint can be a valuable ally in case of allergies since it has been shown to inhibit the release of histamine, a compound that plays a leading role in the allergic response. The reduction of histamine also leads to a decrease in sneezing, rhinitis and itchy nose (Inoue et al, Biol Pharm Bull, 2002). You can breathe in peppermint oil, pour a few drops on a handkerchief.
Salt and allergies
Nasal sprays with salt but also simple steam inhalations made with water and salt, these remedies are widely used and recognized in case of colds and sinusitis. Not only that, salt sprays and salt steam inhalations have also proved useful in case of allergic rhinitis, improving nasal symptoms, and without showing side effects (Hermelingmeier et al, Am J Rhinol Allergy, 2012).
Butterbur and allergies
Butterbur, or Petasites hybridus, has been shown to be a useful remedy for seasonal allergic rhinitis, as well as helping in cases of asthma and headache. It was observed that a butterbur tablet, standardized to 8 mg of petasin per tablet, taken 4 times a day showed an action similar to that of cetirizine, an antihistamine drug (Schapowal et al, BMJ, 2002).
