Medicinal plants with allergies - gentle help from nature

Medicinal plants with allergies - gentle help from nature

Allergies are a widespread problem that plagues many people and is often treated with conventional medication. But what if we could easily rely on the power of nature for relief? Medicinal plants, used by our ancestors for centuries, show increasingly promising approaches to combat allergic reactions. In this article we take a scientific look at the effectiveness of these natural helpers. We explore which areas of application and preparation forms there are and at the same time provide you with important information on security and possible side effects. Have you become curious? Let us find out together how you can find gentle help against allergies with the healing power of nature!

The effectiveness of medicinal plants against allergies in the scientific context

medicinal plants play an increasingly important role in allergy therapy, in particular due to their potential anti -inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Numerous scientific studies have examined the effects of various medicinal plants on allergic reactions. These vegetable means could offer an alternative or supplement to conventional treatment.

A variety of studies show the effectiveness of plants such as elderberr , nessel and dandelion . Elderberry (sambucus nigra) contains antioxidant flavonoids that can reduce antioxidant stress, which has a positive effect on the symptoms of allergies. Nessel (Urtica Dioica) is often used to relieve hay fever and other allergic reactions, since it inhibits histamine, an important mediator for allergic reactions.

However, the effectiveness of medicinal plants varies strongly, and not everyone is suitable for every allergy sufferer. A systematic overview article has shown that plant extracts such as those of ginkgo biloba and caraway (carum carvi) can also improve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis and asthma. At the same time, it is important to individually check which plant works best for the respective patient.

Research has also shown that certain phytochemicals such as flavonoids and terpenes can play a significant role in modulation of the immune response. These connections can help reduce the hypersensitivity of the immune system compared to allergens, which ultimately relieves symptoms. In a controlled clinical study, for example, it was shown that treatment with an extract from chamomile (Matricaria Chamomilla) can cause significant improvements to the symptoms of allergies.

Despite the potential of medicinal plants, science remains skeptical in this area, especially with regard to consistency and dosage. Other well -designed, randomized studies are required to understand the exact mechanisms and long -term effectiveness. The combination of medicinal plants with other therapeutic approaches could also open new doors to the treatment of allergies.

areas of application and forms of preparation of allergy therapy with medicinal plants

medicinal plants are increasingly used in allergy therapy to relieve symptoms of allergies. The areas of application extend over various allergy types such as hay fever, food allergies and skin allergies. The most common medicinal plants include:

• nesselkraut (Urtica dioica) : effects anti -inflammatory and antihistamine, often used in hay fever.
• eye frost (Euphrasia Officinalis) : is used to treat allgeles of the eyes.
• chamomile (matricaria chamomilla) : has anti -inflammatory properties and can help with skin allergies.
• thyme (thymus vulgaris) : can be used to relieve respiratory allergies.

The preparation forms of these plants are diverse. Are frequently used:

• tea : A common method to extract the active ingredients of the plant in water.
• tinctures : alcohol extracts that offer a concentrated form of vegetable active ingredients.
• ointments : For topical applications, especially in skin allergies.
• capsules or tablets : offer an easy way to dose.

The choice of the preparation form often depends on the type of allergy and individual preferences. The tea is particularly popular with hay fever, while tinctures can have a stronger effect. In the case of acute allergic reactions, an immediate application like an ointment can be helpful.

In addition, there is indications that the combination of plant extracts can increase effectiveness. Such a combination could, for example, have a synergistic effect that is more effective in allergies than the use of a single plant. In an investigation into synergies in phytotherapy, it was shown that the combination of different medicinal plant positive effects in the treatment of allergies could be achieved ( ncbi ).

Despite all the advantages, it is important to consider the correct dosage and to check possible interactions with other medication. Expert advice from a doctor or pharmacist can be of great use here.

Security and side effects of medicinal plants in allergic reactions

The application of medicinal plants for the treatment of allergic reactions is not without risks. Even if many people in plant active ingredients are looking for a gentle alternative to pharmaceutical drugs, you always have to keep an eye on the potential side effects. Studies show that certain medicinal plants, which are often considered safe, can also cause unwanted effects in some cases.

are among the most common side effects:

• Allergic reactions: In some patients there may be hypersensitivity reactions that range from rashes to breathing problems.
• gastrointestinal complaints: Some medicinal plants can cause nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
• Interactions with other medication: medicinal plants can influence the effect of prescription drugs, which can be potentially dangerous.

Table 1 shows the most common medicinal plants and their possible side effects:

The safety of medicinal plants depends on various factors, including individual tolerance and the specific form of preparation. In addition, the dosage and the type of application can have an impact on safety. For example, a high concentration of an extract can lead to stronger side effects than the use of mild tea preparation.

Special caution is required in pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and people with existing health problems. Interactions between medicinal plants and conventional drugs are another central topic. The combination can change the effectiveness of treatments or increase the side effects. Famous cases in which this has been observed concern, for example, the combination of St. John's wort with antidepressants.

In order to minimize the risks, advice from qualified specialists, such as pharmacists or alternative practitioners, is recommended. The individual medical history should always be taken into account.

sources and further literature

references

• Schilcher, H. (2001). Medical plant science. Scientific publishing company.
• Kraft, K. (2015). Plant medicine. Georg Thieme Verlag.

Studies

• Wölfle, U., & Schempp, C. M. (2016). The Role of Herbal Medicine in the Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis: A Systematic Review. Phytotherapy Research, 30 (11), 1750-1760.
• Friedrich, J., & von Känel, R. (2013). Efficacy of Phytotherapeutic Agents in the Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Allergen, 35 (2), 203-213.

further literature

• Grünwald, J., & Kienle, G. S. (2012). Complementary medicine - basics and concepts. 2. Edition. Springer Verlag.
• Risinger, G. & Koller, K. (2017). Phytotherapy for allergies. A manual for practice. Elsevier Verlag.