An herbal remedy – Allergy Support Tea

Okay before we go any further, technically anything called ‘tea’ comes from the tea leaf plant. In herbalism, this would be called an herbal infusion. But to make it easier on us, I also call this an herbal tea, so it’s clear what we’re making! But now you know 😉

Onward…

Did you know that nettles is an herbal powerhouse in supporting allergies?

When I was apprenticing as an herbalist, over my years there nettles always stood out as one of my favorite herbs. My mentor always described it as essentially a multivitamin in an herb!

Nettles is a diuretic, but as plant medicine tends to do, is also very balanced. It contains lots of potassium which helps to replenish even while it’s a diuretic. So wise! And a lot of us are lacking in potassium, so it can be very helpful!

It’s also a great base herb for many formulas. If you’re new to crating herbal magic, folk medicine speaks to the power of 3’s. 3 herbs at a time. And in general herbal formula making, we choose one herb as a base herb, and nettles is great for that!

It helps to reduce heat from the body (great for pitta) but without many other side affects.

In Montana, you may be familiar with the stinging nettle plant. Yep, that’s the one! I’ve never grown it in my garden as its a) stinging and b) very affordable to purchase (and let others help with the hassle). I find mine at my local Coop or order from Mountain Rose Herbs.

Nettles – reduces histamine in the body

Mint – improves flavor & soothing (could switch out for your preferred flavor herb)

Rosehips – high vitamin C content, and delicious

Raw, local honey –“Eating honey for allergies is like getting an allergy shot. When bees pollinate, they take backtraces of pollen with them, which stays in the honey. Only trace amounts are left in the honey, but it’s enough to build immunity to the allergen. Once you’ve built enough immunity, your seasonal allergy symptoms decrease.” 

Because of this, it’s best to drink this tea regularly and build up your immunity. And the local, raw honey is key! It helps build up an immunity to the pollens around you. Look for a local honey or beekeeping store, the closer to you the better!