Chronic Urticaria

[magical thyme]

12. herbs with antihistamine properties

Urticaria result from the overproduction of histamine by mast cells. Regardless of the cause for the dysfunction, anything that either inhibits histamine production or counteracts its effects should help you. Here are some of the herbs that Dr. Jame Duke (the Green Pharmacy) recommends based on both experience and their chemical constituents:

Jewelweed (impatiens capensis) topically, even by just crushing the plants. The effective compound is lawsone.

Chamomile and wild oregano: contain 7 known anti-histamine compounds. Can ingest as tea or use topically. In very sensitive people, chamomile may also cause histamine reactions, so he recommends try and see approach. Actually that approach will work best with everything I list here; either it will work or it won't.

Basil, echinacea, fennel, fig, oregano, tarragon, and tea: all contain 5 anti-histamine compounds. All can be used either topically or orally.

Parsley inhibits histamine production (oral).

Essential oils of chamomile, caraway, clove and lemon balm topically are anti-histamines.