If you’re staring at a high pollen count and wondering, “What should I take for allergies?” you aren’t alone. A naturopathic approach looks at the entire histamine cycle, aiming to decrease the release of histamine and binding at histamine receptors, while increasing histamine breakdown in the body.
Here is how you can optimize your body’s response to allergens using targeted, natural support. The good news is that most people do not need all of these. We often start with what someone already has on hand at home!
The Front End: Stabilizing Mast Cells
Cells called mast cells release histamine as part of the”allergic cascade” and cause symptoms. We can use “mast cell stabilizers” to decrease histamine release. The supplements below can be taken together!
- Vitamin C: More than just an immune booster, Vitamin C is a potent natural antihistamine. An adult oral dose to help with allergies is 500-1000mg one to three times daily, taken at any time of day. Watch for loose bowels and if this happens, decrease the dose.
- Quercetin: Flavonoids found in foods like onions and apple skins help decrease mast cell production of histamine. An adult oral dose is about 400-500mg once or twice a day.
- Nettle Leaf: Stinging nettle has been used for centuries to reduce the inflammatory markers associated with hay fever. Make sure to use the aerial parts and not the root for allergy support! An adult oral dose is about 300-400mg once or twice daily.
The Back End: Improving Histamine Degradation
Once histamine is already circulating in your system, your body needs to get rid of it. If your “histamine bucket” is overflowing because you can’t clear it fast enough, your symptoms will persist. These nutrients help the body’s natural enzymes degrade histamine.
- Magnesium (Glycinate or Malate): Magnesium is a co-factor for the enzymes that break down histamine. Choosing the glycinate or malate forms ensures better absorption without the digestive upset. An adult oral dose is 300mg taken once to twice daily.
- Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5): helps the body eliminate histamine more efficiently. An adult oral dose is 500mg taken once to twice daily. An adult oral dose is 500mg taken once to twice daily.
Can I Use These with My Regular Allergy Meds?
One of the best things about these natural supports is their versatility. If you are currently taking second-generation antihistamines (like Zyrtec, Claritin, or Allegra), these nutrients can safely be combined with them.
While the OTC medications block histamine receptors, these natural supplements work to reduce the amount of histamine produced and speed up its removal: giving you a comprehensive, “front-to-back” strategy for allergy season.
Disclaimer: Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement regimen to ensure these dosages are right for your specific health needs.
