Inflammation and allergies can cause problems and interfere with our regular activities. While there are several over the counter remedies and prescriptions treatments on the market, some people might choose a more all natural method of symptom management. Since ancient times, nettle tea has been a well known alternative remedy for easing allergy and inflammatory problems. Let’s take a deeper dive into nettle tea’s uses for inflammation and allergies in this article.
What’s The Tea On Nettle Tea?
How does nettle tea work?
Nettle tea contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of allergies and inflammation. The plant also contains histamine, which may seem counterintuitive since histamine is often associated with allergic reactions. However, consuming small amounts of histamine may help desensitize the body to the allergen, reducing symptoms over time.
Nettle tea also has a diuretic effect, which can help reduce swelling and fluid retention. This effect can be particularly beneficial for those suffering from allergic reactions that cause swelling, such as hives or angioedema.
How to make nettle tea
To make nettle tea, you will need:
1-2 teaspoons of dried nettle leaves or a nettle tea bag
8 ounces of hot water
Optional: honey, lemon, or other sweeteners
Instructions:
Boil water in a kettle or on the stove.
Place the nettle leaves or tea bag in a mug.
Pour hot water over the nettle leaves or tea bag.
Let steep for 5-10 minutes.
Remove the nettle leaves or tea bag.
Add honey, lemon, or other sweeteners to taste.
Enjoy your nettle tea.
How to use nettle tea for allergies and inflammation
Drinking nettle tea regularly may help alleviate allergy and inflammation symptoms. It’s best to start drinking nettle tea a few weeks before allergy season begins to help desensitize the body to the allergen and reduce symptoms over time. You can also drink nettle tea during allergy season to help manage symptoms as they occur.
Nettle tea can also be used to relieve symptoms of inflammation, such as joint pain, muscle pain, and arthritis. In this case, it’s best to drink nettle tea regularly to experience the full benefits.
It’s important to note that nettle tea may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, diuretics, and diabetes medications. If you are taking any medications, it’s best to speak with your healthcare provider before consuming nettle tea.
Other ways to use nettle for allergies and inflammation
In addition to drinking nettle tea, there are other ways to use nettle for allergies and inflammation:
- Nettle leaf extract: Nettle leaf extract is available in supplement form and can be taken to help relieve allergy and inflammation symptoms.
- Nettle leaf capsules: Nettle leaf capsules are another way to consume nettle for allergy and inflammation relief.
- Nettle leaf tincture: Nettle leaf tincture is a concentrated liquid form of nettle that can be added to water or taken directly under the tongue.
- Nettle leaf tea bath: Adding nettle leaf tea to a warm bath can help soothe skin allergies and inflammation.
Nettle tea is made from the leaves and stems of the stinging nettle plant (Urtica dioica). The plant has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments, including allergies and inflammation. The plant is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it an excellent source of nutrition.
Nettle tea is a natural remedy that can be used to help alleviate allergy and inflammation symptoms. The plant’s anti-inflammatory properties, histamine content, and diuretic effects make it an excellent choice for managing symptoms. Drinking nettle tea regularly, starting a few weeks before allergy season, may help desensitize the body to the allergen and reduce symptoms over time. As always, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider before using nettle tea, especially if you are taking any medications.
