Antiallergic

Antiallergic herbs help to modulate the immune response and reduce hypersensitivity reactions by moderating elevated inflammatory and allergic responses. The actions of antiallergic herbs often involve stabilising mast cells, preventing degranulation and reducing histamine and leukotriene release. The mechanisms also involve inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines, downregulating immunoglobulin E (IgE) synthesis and modulating Th1 and Th2 balance.

These herbs can be applied to support conditions including allergic rhinitis, asthma, eczema and urticaria by immunomodulation and reducing inflammation, in turn helping to restore balance and reduce symptoms.

Examples include nettle leaf (Urtica dioica), baikal skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) and barberry (Berberis vulgaris).