By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 18, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Allergies
Herbal creams for allergies are topical products infused with natural ingredients that help alleviate allergic reactions.
They work by reducing inflammation, itching, and redness associated with allergies. Examples of herbal creams include those containing aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula, which soothe and calm the skin.
These creams improve lives by providing relief from itchy skin, reducing the need for antihistamines, and promoting a better quality of life for individuals suffering from seasonal or environmental allergies.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for allergies, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Calendula officinalis
- 2. Aloe vera
- 3. Matricaria chamomilla
- 4. Echinacea angustifolia
- 5. Zingiber officinale
- 6. Curcuma longa
- 7. Lavandula angustifolia
- 8. Mentha x piperita
- 9. Borago officinalis
- 10. Salvia officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for allergies?
- What ailments similar to allergies are treated with herbal creams?
1. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with allergies because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The active compounds in Calendula, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with allergic reactions. Calendula's natural moisturizing properties also help to hydrate and protect the skin, promoting a healthy barrier against allergens and other external irritants.
This makes Calendula creams a popular natural remedy for alleviating allergy symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with allergies.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds help to reduce inflammation and alleviate allergic reactions by inhibiting the release of histamine, a key player in allergic responses.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing the symptoms of allergic reactions such as itching, redness, and swelling.
- Carotenoids: As antioxidants, carotenoids help to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to allergic reactions and inflammation, promoting overall skin health and resilience.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for allergies.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe and calm allergic skin reactions.
- Leaves: They are used because of their ability to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, making them beneficial for soothing allergic skin irritations.
- Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help to reduce swelling and combat infections caused by allergic reactions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for allergies.
- Harvest calendula flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Combine dried calendula flowers with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.
- Stir the mixture constantly for 5 minutes until the beeswax is fully dissolved.
- Remove the double boiler from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Transfer the mixture to a clean glass jar and let it cool and set completely.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with allergies because it contains anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm irritated skin.
The cooling and moisturizing effects of aloe vera help to reduce redness and swelling associated with allergic reactions. Additionally, aloe vera has natural antihistamine properties that can help to neutralize histamine, a chemical released by the body during allergic reactions, thereby providing relief from itchy, scratchy, and inflamed skin caused by allergies.
This makes aloe vera an effective natural remedy for allergy sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with allergies.
- Glucomannans: Glucomannans are a type of polysaccharide that help alleviate allergy symptoms by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system's response to allergens.
- Saponins: Saponins present in Aloe vera have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe skin irritations and reduce the severity of allergic reactions.
- Vitamins and polyphenols: The presence of vitamins C and E, along with other polyphenols, acts as antioxidants in the skin, neutralizing free radicals and protecting against oxidative stress that can exacerbate allergic reactions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for allergies.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are most commonly used due to their high content of gel, which contains anti-inflammatory and soothing properties beneficial for allergy relief.
- Gel (from leaves): The gel extracted from the leaves of Aloe vera is widely used due to its rich moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate allergy symptoms.
- Aloe vera leaf juice (from leaves): Aloe vera leaf juice is also commonly used due to its high content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which provide soothing and calming effects for allergy-prone skin.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are most commonly used due to their high content of gel, which contains anti-inflammatory and soothing properties beneficial for allergy relief.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for allergies.
- Harvest 5-7 leaves of aloe vera and carefully peel off the outer skin to expose the gel inside.
- Weigh out 1 cup of aloe vera gel and transfer it to a blender with 2 tablespoons of beeswax.
- Blend the mixture on high speed for 5 minutes then add in 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of shea butter.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler for 10-15 minutes or until it reaches a temperature of 160°f to 180°f.
- Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool for 30 minutes then whip it with a hand mixer until it thickens.
3. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with allergies because it contains anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that calm irritated skin.
The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, have potent anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing redness and swelling associated with allergic reactions. These properties also help to reduce itching and discomfort, providing quick relief from allergic skin irritations.
Additionally, chamomile creams can help to stabilize the skin's natural barrier function, reducing the risk of future allergic reactions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with allergies.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, reducing the severity of allergic reactions and inflammation in the body.
- Α-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene lactone has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-itching properties, which help alleviate symptoms of allergic skin reactions such as itching and redness.
- Matricaria chamomilla terpenoids: These terpenoids, particularly alpha-pinene and beta-pinene, exhibit anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects, helping to relieve respiratory symptoms associated with allergic reactions, such as congestion and coughing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for allergies.
- Flowers: They are used because they contain flavonoids and essential oils that have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making them effective in reducing allergic reactions.
- Leaves: They are used because they contain similar compounds to the flowers, providing a similar soothing effect for allergic skin irritations.
- Seeds: They are used because they contain apigenin, a flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, helping to alleviate allergic symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for allergies.
- Infuse 20g of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in 100ml of cold-pressed oil for 2-3 weeks to create chamomilla infused oil.
- Combine 10g of beeswax with 20g of shea butter and 20ml of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Add 30ml of chamomilla infused oil to the beeswax mixture and heat until the mixture reaches 160°f to 180°f.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool to around 120°f to 140°f before whipping it.
- Pour the whipped cream mixture into a clean container and let it cool completely before use.
4. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with allergies because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and alleviate congestion.
The cream's active compounds, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid, inhibit the release of histamine, a key player in allergic reactions.
As a result, Echinacea angustifolia creams can provide relief from itchy skin, runny nose, and sneezing associated with seasonal allergies, making it a natural and effective remedy for those seeking alternative solutions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia creams that help with allergies.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, particularly echinacoside and echinulin, help alleviate allergy symptoms by modulating the immune system, reducing inflammation, and inhibiting the release of histamine.
- Polyacetylenes: These compounds, especially echinacin, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate allergy symptoms by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response.
- Phenolic acids: Specifically, caffeic acid and ferulic acid, have been found to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat allergy symptoms by neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make creams for allergies.
- Roots: Echinacea angustifolia roots are used due to their high concentration of phenolic compounds and polysaccharides, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Echinacea angustifolia leaves are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm skin irritations.
- Flowers: Echinacea angustifolia flowers are used for their anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which can help alleviate allergy symptoms and reduce itching.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for allergies.
- Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall when they are at their highest potency for 10-15 minutes.
- Dry the harvested roots in a low-temperature oven at 150-200 degrees fahrenheit for 2-3 hours.
- Grind 30 grams of dried root into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 10 grams of powdered echinacea angustifolia with 5 grams of beeswax and 5 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler for 5 minutes.
- Whip the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency and pour it into a container for 10 minutes.
5. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with allergies because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce histamine release.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, which contribute to allergic reactions.
Additionally, ginger creams have been found to have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which can further reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected areas, providing relief from allergy symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with allergies.
- Gingerols: Gingerols, particularly 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce the severity of allergic reactions by soothing the skin and preventing the release of histamine.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, such as 6-shogaol, have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune system and alleviate allergic symptoms by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
- Zingiberene: Zingiberene, a sesquiterpene, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the skin from damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby reducing the severity of allergic reactions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for allergies.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used due to their high concentration of compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate allergy symptoms.
- Roots: Roots are used for their ability to reduce inflammation and itching, making them a popular ingredient in creams for allergies.
- Buds: Buds are used for their potential to help soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and itching associated with allergies.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for allergies.
- Infuse 50 grams of fresh zingiber officinale roots in 500 milliliters of carrier oil for 2 weeks.
- Filter the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain 450 milliliters of oil.
- Mix 100 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Combine the filtered oil with 100 milliliters of distilled water and 20 milliliters of glycerin.
- Emulsify the oil and water mixture with the melted wax and butter mixture.
6. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with allergies because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compound curcumin in turmeric cream has the ability to modulate the immune system, reducing the release of histamine and other allergic mediators. This helps to alleviate symptoms such as itching, redness, and swelling associated with allergic reactions.
Additionally, turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties can help to soothe and calm irritated skin, providing relief from allergic skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with allergies.
- Curcumin: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, helps alleviate allergies by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, which in turn suppresses the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, another polyphenolic compound found in Curcuma longa, helps with allergies by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby reducing the severity of allergic reactions.
- Voluric acid: Voluric acid, a sesquiterpene, helps alleviate allergies by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and alleviate symptoms associated with allergic reactions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for allergies.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzome of Curcuma longa is used to make creams for allergies due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa are used to make creams for allergies due to their ability to reduce inflammation and itching.
- Seeds: The seeds of Curcuma longa are used to make creams for allergies due to their potential to inhibit histamine release, which can help alleviate allergy symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for allergies.
- Weigh 500 grams of curcuma longa powder to obtain the desired herbal extract.
- Combine 500 grams of curcuma longa powder with 1 liter of water in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture at 40 degrees celsius for 30 minutes to enhance curcuma longa solubility.
- Strain the mixture using a coffee filter to remove curcuma longa particles from the liquid.
- Mix 100 grams of beeswax with 200 grams of curcuma longa extract to create a stable cream base.
7. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with allergies because of its anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.
The key compound linalool in lavender oil has been shown to reduce the release of histamine, a chemical responsible for allergy symptoms. The cream's soothing and calming effects also help to reduce itchiness, redness, and swelling associated with allergic reactions, providing relief and comfort to those affected.
This natural remedy can be a valuable addition to traditional treatments for allergy sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with allergies.
- Linalool: A terpene that helps with allergies by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, thereby alleviating symptoms such as itching and redness.
- Linalyl acetate: A terpene that helps with allergies by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce histamine release and alleviate allergic reactions.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid that helps with allergies by inhibiting the release of histamine from mast cells, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and modulating the immune response to alleviate allergic symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for allergies.
- Leaves: They are used due to their antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate allergy symptoms.
- Flowers: They are used due to their calming and soothing effects, which help reduce stress and inflammation caused by allergies.
- Seeds: They are used due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the skin and reduce allergic reactions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for allergies.
- Harvest 1 lb of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers to ensure high quality and potency of the final product.
- Infuse 8 oz of carrier oil with 1/2 cup of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers for 2 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the oil mixture through cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids after 2 weeks.
- Mix 1/4 cup of beeswax with 1/4 cup of shea butter and 8 oz of the infused oil in a double boiler.
- Whip the mixture until it thickens and cools to a spreadable consistency at room temperature in 10 minutes.
8. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with allergies because of its anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.
The menthol in peppermint has a cooling effect, which can help reduce swelling and itching associated with allergic reactions. The herb also contains compounds like limonene and beta-pinene that can help alleviate congestion and sinus pressure, providing relief from allergy symptoms.
Additionally, peppermint's ability to thin mucus can make it easier to expel, further alleviating congestion and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with allergies.
- Eugenol: This phenolic compound helps reduce inflammation and has anti-histamine properties, making it effective in alleviating allergy symptoms.
- Caryophyllene oxide: A sesquiterpene, caryophyllene oxide has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties, which help to soothe and calm irritated skin.
- Menthone: A monoterpene, menthone has decongestant properties that help to relieve nasal congestion and other respiratory issues associated with allergies.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for allergies.
- Leaves: These are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which provide anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.
- Stems: Stems of Mentha x piperita are also used to make creams for allergies, as they contain similar compounds to the leaves, offering relief from allergic reactions.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Mentha x piperita are used to make creams due to their rich content of menthol, which helps to soothe and calm the skin affected by allergies.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for allergies.
- Harvest 50g of fresh mentha x piperita leaves early in the morning on a sunny day.
- Steam distill the harvested leaves using a rotary evaporator at 40°c for 2 hours.
- Combine 20g of the distilled mentha x piperita essential oil with 80g of emulsifying wax in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over a double boiler at 70°c while stirring for 30 minutes with a spatula.
- Pour the cooled mixture into a container and let it set at room temperature for 2 hours.
9. Borago officinalis
Borago officinalis, also known as borage, creams helps with allergies because of its anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.
The cream is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a polyunsaturated fatty acid that has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with allergies such as itchiness, redness, and swelling. Additionally, the cream contains antioxidants that help to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to allergic reactions.
This makes borage cream a popular natural remedy for soothing and calming irritated skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Borago officinalis creams that help with allergies.
- Squalene: This triterpene helps with allergies by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to allergic reactions.
- Polyphenolic compounds: These compounds help with allergies by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce the severity of allergic reactions and promote tissue repair.
- Glycosides: These compounds help with allergies by reducing inflammation, modulating the immune system, and exhibiting antioxidant properties, which can alleviate allergic symptoms and promote overall well-being.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of borage used to make creams for allergies.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties to soothe and calm allergic reactions.
- Seeds: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of allergies.
- Flowers: Known for their antihistamine properties and ability to reduce itching and redness associated with allergic reactions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic borage for allergies.
- Harvest 100g of fresh borago officinalis leaves and flowers in the early morning for optimal potency.
- Combine the harvested herb in a saucepan with 250ml of jojoba oil and heat at 40-60c for 30 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a bowl to separate the oil from the solids.
- Add 50g of beeswax to the oil mixture and heat at 60-80c for 10 minutes stirring constantly.
- Pour the cooled mixture into a container and let it set for 30 minutes to an hour before use.
10. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, creams helps with allergies because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The herb contains compounds like camphor and thujone, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and ease congestion. Additionally, sage has been traditionally used to relieve respiratory issues, such as congestion and coughs, associated with allergies. The cream's soothing and calming effects may also help to reduce redness and itching, providing relief for those suffering from allergic reactions.
This makes Salvia officinalis creams a popular natural remedy for allergy sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis creams that help with allergies.
- Tannins: Tannins help reduce inflammation and alleviate allergic symptoms by binding to proteins and preventing them from triggering allergic reactions.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help mitigate allergic responses and alleviate symptoms associated with allergies.
- Caffeic acid: Caffeic acid has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the body's response to allergens and alleviate allergic symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make creams for allergies.
- Leaves: The leaves contain bioactive compounds such as tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm allergic reactions.
- Flowers: The flowers have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects due to the presence of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can help to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response in allergic conditions.
- Seeds: The seeds are rich in essential oils, particularly thujone and camphor, which have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties that can help to alleviate allergic symptoms such as itching and redness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for allergies.
- Harvest fresh salvia officinalis leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a warm place with good air circulation for 7 days.
- Infuse 20g of dried salvia officinalis leaves in 100ml of carrier oil such as olive oil.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean bowl.
- Whip the strained oil with a hand mixer or a whisk to create a smooth cream consistency.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for allergies?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with allergies is a blend of Aloe vera, Calendula, and Echinacea.
Aloe vera soothes and calms irritated skin, while Calendula accelerates wound healing and reduces inflammation. Echinacea, on the other hand, boosts the immune system, fighting off underlying allergy triggers. When applied topically, these creams can provide relief from itchy skin, redness, and swelling.
Regular use can also help desensitize the skin to allergens, reducing the severity of allergic reactions over time.
What ailments similar to allergies are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to allergies/creams.html">allergies/creams.html">allergies that are treated with herbal creams are skin irritations, itchiness, and inflammation.
Herbal creams can provide relief from conditions such as eczema, acne, rosacea, and dermatitis by soothing the skin and reducing redness and swelling.
Herbs like aloe vera, calendula, and chamomile are commonly used in these creams due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help calm the skin and promote healing.