Allergic reactions are a very common problem that you and I encounter. It can be a slight itch to a life threatening situation. The allergic pathway requires the release of a number of special substances to promote allergic reaction as if histamines. These special substances are protein molecules. The allergic reaction can be prevented by using anti-allergy medications. How does the anti-allergy medication function? Most of the anti-allergic medications work by blocking the production or action of histamine. Thereby these medications execute the antihistaminic effect.
However, there are many naturally available antihistamines are present in the mother nature. They can be potent substitutes for the antihistamine or anti-allergic medications. The most common and highly effective natural antihistamines are Reishi mushroom, Quercetin, Stinging Nettle and Bromelain. Let us see, how each of these substances can act as antihistaminic agents.
Table of Contents
Reishi Mushroom
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Reishi mushroom or red Reishi mushroom are widely used in Chinese medicine due to its extraordinary health benefits. This mushroom is also called as an herbal mushroom. Among many substances, the Reishi mushroom contains an important active ingredient called ganoderic acid which is a triterpene. The ganoderic acid in Reishi mushroom decreases the allergy or allergic reaction by inhibiting the release of histamines. In addition, the anti-allergic effect is enhanced by improving the oxygen supply to the organs and also by improving the liver function. Moreover, Reishi mushroom is recommended as one of the important adaptogen and immuno-modulator, due to its antihistaminic or anti-allergic effect.
Quercetin
Quercetin is found in plums, broccoli, dates, sweet potatoes and so on. Quercetin contains a greater quantity of flavonoids. The greater quantity of Quercetin enables them to be a highly potent antioxidant. The antioxidant of Quercetin has a similar structure to the histamine inhibitor. Hence, the antioxidant of Quercetin binds to the inhibitor receptor of histamine and thus blocks the release of histamines. This reduces the symptoms of allergic reaction in hay fever, hives, and eczema.
Stinging Nettle
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Stinging Nettle has a greater quantity of irritating compounds including histamines and serotonins. This is the reason for the name “stinging”. Stinging Nettle prevents the allergic reaction through its antihistamine effect. The antihistaminic effect of Stinging nettle is an indirect method. The anti-inflammatory property of stinging nettle disturbs the enzymes and receptors involved in the allergic reaction. Hence, the antihistaminic effect is achieved through the anti-inflammatory effect.
In addition, studies have shown that during a severe allergic reaction, the level of plasma histamine is low. Hence, the histamine content of stinging nettle act as an important component in the treatment of allergic reaction.
Bromelain
Bromelain is a protein-digesting enzyme, which is present in pineapple. The Bromelain modulate the immune system by analyzing the major cause of the allergic reaction. Hence, the root of the allergic reaction is eliminated. In this way, Bromelain executes its antihistaminic effects.
As a whole, the naturally available antihistamines come with little or no side effects than the antihistamine medications. Hence, natural antihistamines are the better choice during an allergic reaction or in the prevention of allergy.
