Natural Support for Seasonal Allergies

For many people, spring and early summer bring more than flowers and sunshine—they bring sneezing, itchy eyes, sinus pressure, and fatigue. These symptoms, commonly triggered by pollen and environmental allergens, are part of what we know as seasonal allergic rhinitis—or simply, seasonal allergies.

Instead of relying solely on over-the-counter medications (which can come with some not-so-great side effects), I like to take a more holistic approach—one that helps the body stay balanced, supports healthy elimination, and gently calms the immune response.

Why Allergies Happen: A Holistic Perspective

Traditional Western Herbalism recognizes that allergies are not just about “overreacting” to pollen, but a sign of an underlying imbalance, often involving the immune system, digestive function, liver activity, and overall terrain of the body. Yes, there are herbs we can take to deal with the symptoms of seasonal allergies, but if we want to deal with the allergies themselves, we need to support our bodies and address the root causes.

When the liver is sluggish or the gut lining is compromised, it becomes harder for the body to regulate histamine levels. Excess histamine and inflammation result in the classic symptoms we associate with allergies—runny nose, red eyes, congestion, and sneezing.

Supporting the body’s elimination systems (liver, bowels, kidneys, skin, lymph) can help reduce overall reactivity. Strengthening the gut and calming the nervous system are often key components of long-term allergy support.

Herbs That May Help with Seasonal Allergy Symptoms

🌿 Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Nettle is rich in vitamins and minerals and contains natural antihistamine properties. Freeze-dried nettle is often used to reduce histamine response and calm inflammation. It also strengthens the kidneys and adrenal function.

🌿 Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)

Despite the common misconception, goldenrod doesn’t cause allergies—it may actually relieve them. It helps dry up excess mucus and is especially helpful for watery eyes and post-nasal drip.

🌿 Eyebright (Euphrasia spp.)

Traditionally used to treat eye irritation, inflammation, and allergy-related symptoms. Works well in combination with goldenrod or elderflower.

🌿 Elderflower (Sambucus nigra)

Elderflower is cooling and mildly drying. It helps reduce inflammation and supports the sinuses, especially when there’s heat or swelling present.

🌿 Peppermint & Chamomile

Both herbs have mild anti-inflammatory properties and support digestive calm, which may help regulate histamine response via the gut-liver axis.

How to Use These Herbs

Teas: Combine 2–3 herbs and steep for 10–15 minutes. Drink 2–3 cups daily

during allergy season.

Tinctures: A formula combining nettle, goldenrod, and eyebright can be taken 2–3

times daily.

Capsules: Freeze-dried nettle capsules are often used at the onset of symptoms.

Steams: Use elderflower or peppermint in a facial steam to open and soothe

irritated sinuses.

More Natural Support For Seasonal Allergy Relief

In addition to herbs, some supplements can be helpful in managing seasonal allergy symptoms:

🟢 Quercetin

A natural plant compound with antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin helps stabilize mast cells and reduce histamine release. It's often paired with bromelain to enhance absorption and effectiveness.

Suggested dose: 250–600 mg, taken up to 3x per day before meals.

🟢 Bromelain

An enzyme derived from pineapple, bromelain helps reduce sinus inflammation and boosts the action of quercetin.

Suggested dose: 500 mg, taken 2–3x daily.

🟢 Probiotics and Prebiotics

Gut health plays a critical role in immune modulation and histamine response. Consider probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, or kefir.

Prebiotic fibers like inulin (found in dandelion greens and artichokes) support gut flora balance by feeding the good guys.

🟢 Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a known natural antihistamine and immune booster. A diet rich in citrus, berries, and leafy greens provides a natural source of this helpful nutrient.

Support the Liver & Gut for Long-Term Relief

Herbs that support liver detoxification and gut health can improve how the body handles allergens:

*Dandelion root, burdock, and yellow dock to support liver function

*Marshmallow root and plantain to soothe and protect the gut lining

If you’d like more information on gentle cleansing and detoxing, see this post: Gentle Spring Cleansing: Supporting the Body's Natural Renewal.

Additionally, addressing inflammation, getting enough sleep, avoiding highly processed foods, and managing stress can improve overall terrain.

Final Thoughts

Seasonal allergies may be common, but they’re not inevitable. By supporting your body’s systems naturally and holistically—rather than simply suppressing symptoms—you can find more ease through allergy season.

Whether it’s nettle tea, elderflower tincture, or a gentle detox tea with dandelion and burdock, herbs can help bring your body into balance and offer natural relief when the pollen count rises.

As always, it’s important to find the right herbs for your constitution, health history, and lifestyle. If you’d like help with that, let’s chat!

The information provided on this platform is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Herbs and herbal remedies should be used as part of a holistic lifestyle approach to health and wellness. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a clinical herbalist, and/or your primary care physician, before beginning any herbal regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition. 

Remember, individual responses to herbs may vary, and what works for one person may not work the same for another.