She Strengthens

Sip Your Way to Allergy Relief: 11 Teas to Try

The Power of Tea

When we think of tea, we often associate it with relaxation and self-care. However, certain teas can also provide relief from common ailments like coughs, sore throats, and sleep issues. But can tea also help alleviate seasonal allergy symptoms? The answer is yes!

Why Herbal Tea for Allergies?

Some teas contain herbs that may fight inflammation and support your immune system, which can help alleviate allergy symptoms. Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, typically occur in the spring, summer, and early fall. They are caused by your body’s immune response to pollen, grass, or other environmental allergens, leading to inflammatory signals that trigger symptoms like sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, fatigue, and itchy, red, watery eyes.

Top Teas for Allergy Relief

Before you start brewing, here’s what science has to say about these herbal elixirs:

1. Nettle Tea

Nettle tea has been shown to help alleviate common hay fever symptoms. Steep 2-3 teaspoons of dried nettle leaves in boiling water for 10-15 minutes.

2. Ginger Tea

Ginger tea may help reduce allergy and sinusitis symptoms. Cut 4-6 thin slices of peeled, raw ginger and boil gently for 10-20 minutes.

3. Lemon Peel Tea

Lemon peel tea contains high levels of antioxidant compounds that may help reduce inflammation. Steep half a lemon peel in boiling water for 5 minutes.

4. Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate stuffy noses. Steep peppermint leaves in boiling water for 5-10 minutes.

5. Licorice Root Tea

Licorice root tea may help reduce inflammation and kill off certain fungi, bacteria, and viruses. Steep dried licorice root in boiling water for 10-15 minutes.

6. Green Tea (Benifuuki Japanese)

This type of green tea contains high levels of methylated catechins and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which have anti-allergic effects. Steep Benifuuki green tea leaves in boiling water for 5-10 minutes.

7. Turmeric Tea

Turmeric tea contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and antibacterial properties that may help reduce irritation and swelling triggered by allergic rhinitis. Steep ground turmeric in boiling water for 10 minutes.

8. Yerba Mate Tea

Yerba mate tea contains saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties, and may help boost your immune system. Steep yerba mate leaves in boiling water for 5-10 minutes.

9. Tulsi Tea

Tulsi tea, also known as holy basil, has antimicrobial properties and may help reduce stress and boost energy. Steep tulsi leaves in boiling water for 5-10 minutes.

10. Butterbur Tea

Butterbur tea has been shown to be as effective as antihistamines in reducing allergy symptoms. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to find, but if you can, steep butterbur leaves in boiling water for 5-10 minutes.

11. Rooibos Tea

Rooibos tea contains antioxidants that may help temporarily increase your antioxidant levels. Steep rooibos leaves in boiling water for 5-10 minutes.

Is Tea for Allergy Relief Just a Placebo Effect?

It’s possible that the relief you experience from drinking tea for allergies is due to the placebo effect. However, even if that’s the case, a hot cup of tea can still be a soothing and relaxing way to alleviate symptoms.

The Bottom Line

Some herbal teas have scientific evidence backing their effectiveness in reducing seasonal allergy symptoms, while others have only theoretical science to support their claims. Always consult with your doctor before trying any new herbal remedies, especially if you’re taking medication or have a health condition.