8 TEAS AND HERBAL TEAS TO SURVIVE THE ALLERGY SEASON

Whether it’s called seasonal allergies, allergic rhinitis or hay fever, immune reactions affect almost a quarter of the Canadian population during the allergy season, between April and August. Many people turn to antihistamines sold in pharmacies to relieve their symptoms. However, there is an effective, natural and delicious solution to fight these reactions in your kitchen.

Here are 8 types of teas and herbal teas to help you with the allergy season !

 

ALLERGIES (YES, AGAIN THIS YEAR!)

What causes them - The symptoms of seasonal allergies are typical and can, mistakenly, be confused with the common cold. Allergic rhinitis is a defense reaction of the immune system to allergens. The most common are pollen granules from ash, birch, oak and maple trees, released during April and May, the grass pollen produced in June and July, ragweed which grows in August or the animal hair from your pets and house mites throughout the year.

What characterizes them - The body tries to defend itself against these allergens by producing pro-inflammatory signals. Affected individuals often experience symptoms such as repetitive sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes and constant tearing, as well as a tingling and runny nose. Some even have headaches, insomnia, irritability and a decrease in appetite.

Making the best of a bad situation - If the allergy season is troublesome, it’s an excellent opportunity to savor some teas and herbal teas to help with these uncomfortable symptoms.

 

1. ROOIBOS

"Red tea", rooibos herbal tea contains several natural components (bioflavonoids such as rutin and quercetin) that block the release of histamines - an important factor in allergic reactions. Regular consumption of rooibos tea helps to metabolize allergens and to alleviate symptoms, including skin irritations.

2. GINGER

The virtues of ginger are numerous and are often used to fight nausea. However, teas containing ginger are also an excellent natural antihistamine and an infusion that helps reduce inflammation of the nasal mucosa.

3. PEPPERMINT

Peppermint teas or herbal teas act as decongestants. This type of mint decreases the secretion of anti-inflammatory enzymes like histamines that are the cause of immune reactions against allergens.

4. LEMON BALM

Lemon balm, part of the mint family, is an aromatic herb with a lemon fragrance. Herbal teas with lemon balm soothe headaches and respiratory symptoms associated with the allergy season, in addition to promoting relaxation.

5. LICORICE

Licorice roots from the licorice plant are renowned for their antihistamine and anti-inflammatory effects. An infusion of herbal tea with licorice helps with a runny itchy nose.

6. GREEN TEA

Green tea is an antioxidant rich in quercetin - a plant compound that promotes anti-inflammatory protection against allergens. It is quercetin that gives green tea its pigmentation and helps to block the immune reactions caused by pollen, dust and animal hair.

 

7. BERRIES

Quercetin is also found in berries. A blueberry herbal tea is therefore an excellent infusion to reduce the seasonal symptoms.

8. TURMERIC

Turmeric is widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory effects. In addition, it also helps to slow the onset of symptoms caused by the allergy season by acting as a natural antihistamine. You can regularly enjoy a well-infused turmeric herbal tea to feel the benefits.

During the allergy season, try to not come into contact with pollen by avoiding drying clothes and bedding outside. Enjoy the early morning, before 9am, open your windows while the dew prevents allergens from floating into the air. Finish the day with a fresh shower that will clean the allergens stuck to your hair and skin.

Moreover, take time to enjoy a good cup of tea or herbal tea at any time during the spring and the summer, as this is the best way to enjoy the allergy season!