6 natural remedies for allergies that actually work

Allergies affect millions of people worldwide, causing symptoms like sneezing, itching, congestion, and even more severe reactions in some cases. While over-the-counter medications are commonly used to manage these symptoms, there are certain natural remedies available that have gained popularity as an alternative or complementary approach. But the question that comes is how effective are these natural remedies? Are they based on fact or fiction? Let's explore some common natural remedies for allergy relief and assess their validity.

One of the most popular natural remedies for allergy relief is consuming local honey. The notion behind this is that local honey contains small amounts of pollen from local plants, which can help build immunity to allergens. However, scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited. No significant difference has been found in allergy symptoms between participants who consumed local honey and those who did not. While some people swear by this method, its effectiveness remains largely anecdotal.

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) has been used traditionally to treat a variety of ailments, including allergies. It is thought to function as a natural antihistamine. Although it has shown very promising results, there are more rigorous clinical trials needed to establish its efficacy conclusively. As with other herbal remedies, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting stinging nettle, especially for those with underlying health conditions.


Probiotics, the beneficial bacteria found in fermented foods and supplements, are believed to improve gut health and modulate the immune system. It's believed that probiotics may help in reducing the severity and incidence of allergy symptoms. However, the research is still ongoing, and the specific strains and doses that are most effective are not yet well-defined. Probiotics show potential as a supportive treatment but should not be relied upon solely for allergy relief.


According to Dr. P Venkata Krishnan, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine at Artemis Hospital Gurugram, “Quercetin is a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is believed to stabilise mast cells, which release histamine and cause allergy symptoms. It has been observed that quercetin might help in reducing allergic reactions, but no concrete evidence is available to support these claims. Including quercetin-rich foods like apples, onions, and berries in your diet could be beneficial, but it should not replace conventional treatments without consulting a healthcare provider.”


Butterbur (Petasites hybridus) is a plant that has shown promise in treating allergic rhinitis. A study published in *BMJ* in 2002 found that butterbur extract was as effective as cetirizine, a common antihistamine, in reducing allergy symptoms without causing drowsiness. However, butterbur can contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which are toxic to the liver. It is essential to use PA-free butterbur supplements to avoid these risks. While butterbur appears to be a fact-based remedy, caution is crucial regarding its preparation and dosage.

Nasal irrigation with saline solution, often performed using a neti pot, is a widely recommended natural remedy for alleviating nasal congestion and irritation caused by allergies. Saline nasal irrigation is significantly said to reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis and improve quality of life. This method is considered to be safe when performed correctly with sterile water or saline solution, making it an effective remedy.
While several natural remedies show promise in alleviating allergy symptoms, most require further research to fully substantiate their effectiveness. It's advised that people should consult doctors before starting any new treatment, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or those already on medication. Combining natural remedies with conventional treatments may offer the best approach to managing allergies effectively.