Herbs for Seasonal Allergies: Make Your Own Allergy Relief Herbal Tea

For the seasonal allergy sufferer looking for relief outside of the realm of pharmaceuticals, be encouraged.

There are several botanical medicines such as:

• nettle leaf — contains natural antihistamine. Nettles have been used traditionally in the treatment of respiratory problems and also bring relief from the symptoms of seasonal allergies.
• eyebright — contains tannins. Tannins possess astringent properties that aid in strengthening and stabilizing swollen, red, and congested mucus membranes in the eyes and in nasal passages. Likewise, eyebright can reduce mucus secretion and bring relief from irritating allergens. Eyebright is a very popular solution for the treatment of a running nose and watery, itchy eyes so often associated with seasonal allergies.
• marshmallow root — contains mucilage which aids the body in relieving irritation caused by allergens. Marshmallow root also possesses gentle decongestant properties.
• licorice root — has anti-inflammatory properties, soothes inflamed mucus membranes, and calms irritated and sore throats.
• elder flower & elder berries — both natural decongestants. They soothe the mucus membranes and work to dry up excess secretions.
• rosehips — are rich in vitamin C and lend a very pleasant flavor to the tea.

Want to learn more plant-based healing for your family and friends? I highly recommend signing up for the Online Intermediate Herbal Course if you’d like to participate in formal herbalism training! Learn how to harness the healing power of plants!

Allergy Relief Herbal Tea

Ingredients
*Measurements in parts are by volume not weight.

• 2 parts nettle leaf
• 2 parts eyebright
• 1 part licorice root
• 1 part marshmallow root
• 1 part elder flowers
• 1 part elderberries
• 1/2 part rosehips
• 1/2 part cinnamon chips
• 1/4 part ginger root

I buy all of my dried organic and/or wild-crafted herbs
in bulk from Mountain Rose Herbs.

Method

1. Measure the parts of each of the herbs listed and mix in a large bowl until well combined.
2. Grab your tea accessories, tea infusers, and tea pots…and brew a cup! (Note: I get all of my loose leaf tea-making supplies online from Starwest Botanicals. Their selection of tea accessories can’t be beat!)
3. This herbal tea blend will keep stored in a cool, dark place for approximately 6 months. (Note: I like to store all of my teas in glass jars with tight-fitting lids.)

Suggested use

Pour 1 cup of hot water over 1 teaspoon of tea. Cover and let steep for 5 minutes. Strain (composting plant material). For an added punch of allergy relief enjoy this tea sweeten with organic, raw honey (Local is best for ultimate allergy relief, but if it is unavailable to you, I HIGHLY recommend this honey from Tropical Traditions…it’s my personal favorite!). Drink 3 or more cups per day.

*Consider brewing up a big batch and keeping it in the fridge to sip throughout the day.*

Note: I like to prepare large batches of this tea for ease of use (especially during allergy season). In order to do so, I make a very concentrated infusion by adding 5-6 tablespoons of tea blend to one quart of water that has been brought just to a boil. Allow tea to steep for 5-10 minutes. Strain (composting plant material). Refrigerate the concentrate in a glass mason jar. When ready to serve, mix one part concentrate with three parts water. Reheat to serve hot or serve cold over ice.

Where Can I Get This Stuff?

–Mountain Rose Herbs…they have everything you’ll need by way of Bulk Herbs and Natural Products for Healthy, Natural Living! It’s your one-stop-shop!

–Starwest Botanicals and The Bulk Herb Store also carries many of these ingredients if you’d like to price check.