Allergy season is right around the corner, if it hasn't already come knocking. Allergies show up in people in many different ways. Some have upper respiratory allergies, some have skin reactions, some have lower respiratory weakness, and the list goes on. But on the most basic of levels, the same thing is happening in the body with these symptomatic expressions: histamine. Our bodies move through our environments with a general allergic load that each of us can tolerate. This is a wide spectrum that differs from person to person. If those environmental triggers are too strong or coming in contact in repeat, our bodies react through our immune system, histamine and inflammation.

I didn't grow up with allergies. I never experienced them until I was about 26. My theory is with the overall drying up of our landscapes, plus wildfires becoming the norm, my body's mechanisms for regulating became weakened. It has taken me a long time to figure out how this whole herbs + allergies work, so I thought I would share….

Ongoing support (when not in an acute flare up):

• Adaptogens - Reishi, Astragalus or Chaga. One will do just fine. Adaptogens can reach down into the depths of your immune system and really support from the ground up. This is deep immunity. Longer consistent use is recommended.

• Nettles - A little every day before the season comes. Start in winter time through the end of allergy season. Nettle can be drying, so if you are one who tends towards dryness, add some moistening herbs to balance it out. Something like Marshmallow, Plantain, Calendula, or Cinnamon.

Acute support (in a flare up):

• Licorice (be aware of HDI) - Mast cell stabilizer. These cells are key players in the inflammatory response around acute flare ups

• Goldenrod - Releases heat through diaphoresis, stimulates the release of excessive mucus

• Chrysanthemum - Cooling and clears heat. I have also found a compress really helpful for itchy irritated eyes

• Echinacea - Stimulant support for the immune system in acute settings.

Other preparations for relief:

• Neti pot - make your salt solution and add 1-3 drops of tincture in! A single of echinacea, yerba mansa or yarrow are good places to start

• Essential Oil Diffuser - Adding herbs like Rosemary, Eucalyptus, Lavender, or Peppermint can help open up airways

• Herbal steams - rosemary, thyme and mints are great decongestants, expectorants, and anti-inflammatories

*This is for informational purposes ONLY. We are not here to treat or diagnose. Please consult with a health professional before