By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Hay Fever
Herbal tinctures for hay fever are concentrated liquid extracts made from plant-based ingredients that offer natural relief from allergy symptoms.
These tinctures help to reduce histamine response, inflammation, and congestion, providing relief from runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with hay fever include butterbur, stinging nettle, and quercetin-rich herbs like goldenrod and sage.
By taking these tinctures regularly, individuals can experience improved airway function, reduced allergy medication use, and increased quality of life during peak pollen seasons.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for hay fever, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Petasites hybridus
- 2. Ananas comosus
- 3. Urtica dioica
- 4. Quercus robur
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Galphimia glauca
- 7. Stellaria media
- 8. Althaea officinalis
- 9. Calendula officinalis
- 10. Plantago major
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for hay fever?
- What ailments similar to hay fever are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Petasites hybridus
Butterbur tinctures helps with hay fever because it has natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that reduce symptoms such as congestion, itching, and sneezing.
The active compounds in butterbur, particularly petasin and isopetasin, have been shown to inhibit the production of leukotrienes, which are chemical mediators responsible for allergic reactions.
By reducing these chemical mediators, butterbur tinctures help to alleviate symptoms associated with hay fever, allowing individuals to breathe easier and enjoy outdoor activities without discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Petasites hybridus tinctures that help with hay fever.
- Isoalantolactone: This sesquiterpene lactone helps with hay fever by inhibiting the release of histamine from mast cells, which reduces inflammation and allergic reactions in the nasal passages.
- Isoapalantolactone: Similar to isoalantolactone, isopalantolactone also exhibits anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which help alleviate symptoms of hay fever such as congestion, sneezing, and itching.
- Petasins: These sesquiterpene lactones possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help soothe the nasal mucosa and reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines that contribute to hay fever symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of butterbur used to make tinctures for hay fever.
- Roots: The roots of Petasites hybridus contain a compound called isopetasin, which is effective in reducing allergic responses and inflammation associated with hay fever.
- Leaves: The leaves are rich in petasin, a key compound that helps to alleviate symptoms of hay fever, such as congestion and runny nose.
- Roots: The roots also contain a compound called apigenin, which has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to relieve symptoms of hay fever, including itching and sneezing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic butterbur for hay fever.
- Harvest the petasites hybridus leaves and roots in the spring when the plant is in flower.
- Dry the harvested petasites hybridus material in a warm dry place for 2 to 3 weeks.
- Chop the dried petasites hybridus into small pieces and use a ratio of 1 part petasites to 2 parts solvent such as ethanol.
- Steep the chopped petasites hybridus in the solvent for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.
2. Ananas comosus
Pineapple tinctures helps with hay fever because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
The bromelain enzyme found in pineapple has been shown to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses, alleviating symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Additionally, pineapple tincture's antioxidant content can help neutralize free radicals that contribute to allergic reactions.
By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, herbal pineapple tinctures can provide relief from hay fever symptoms, allowing individuals to breathe easier and enjoy the outdoors without discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ananas comosus tinctures that help with hay fever.
- Bromelain: This proteolytic enzyme helps with hay fever by breaking down proteins that contribute to inflammation and allergic reactions.
- Anthocyanins and other polyphenols: These flavonoids possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce the severity of hay fever symptoms.
- Tryptophan: This essential amino acid is involved in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can help regulate the body's response to allergens and reduce inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pineapple used to make tinctures for hay fever.
- Fruits: The fleshy part of the pineapple is used to make tinctures as it contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps to break down allergens and reduce inflammation.
- Leaves: Pineapple leaves are used to make tinctures as they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help to alleviate symptoms of hay fever.
- Flowers: Pineapple flowers are used to make tinctures as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce hay fever symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pineapple for hay fever.
- Harvest 2-3 pounds of fresh pineapple fruit and clean it thoroughly under running water.
- Chop the pineapple into small pieces and combine them with 80 proof vodka in a glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place away from direct sunlight.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into another clean glass jar discarding the solids completely.
- Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 years.
3. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle tinctures helps with hay fever because it targets the root cause of the issue - inflammation.
Nettle's natural anti-inflammatory compounds, such as gallic acid and caffeic acid, work to reduce swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses, alleviating congestion and discomfort. Additionally, nettle's ability to stabilize mast cells and decrease histamine release helps to mitigate allergic reactions, providing relief from symptoms like runny nose, itchiness, and sneezing.
As a result, taking an herbal stinging nettle tincture can bring welcome respite to those suffering from hay fever.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with hay fever.
- Histamine-releasing inhibitors: These constituents, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, help alleviate hay fever symptoms by inhibiting the release of histamine, a key player in allergic reactions.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has potent anti-inflammatory properties and acts as a mast cell stabilizer, reducing the allergic response and alleviating symptoms associated with hay fever.
- Alkaloids: These constituents have antihistamine and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to calm the allergic response and reduce symptoms such as congestion and itching associated with hay fever.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for hay fever.
- Leaves: The leaves contain high levels of histamine-inhibiting compounds, which help alleviate hay fever symptoms.
- Stems: The stems contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce swelling and itching associated with hay fever.
- Roots: The roots are rich in antioxidants and other bioactive compounds that can help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation related to hay fever.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for hay fever.
- Gather and clean 1 part of fresh urtica dioica leaves and flowers and chop them finely.
- Combine the chopped urtica dioica with 2 parts of 80 proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place and label it with the date and ingredients used.
4. Quercus robur
English oak tinctures helps with hay fever because it contains a unique combination of bioactive compounds that have been traditionally used to alleviate allergy symptoms.
The tannins and flavonoids present in the tincture work together to reduce inflammation, congestion, and itching associated with hay fever, making it an effective natural remedy for seasonal allergic rhinitis.
Additionally, the tincture's antihistamine properties help to neutralize histamine release, providing relief from sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Quercus robur tinctures that help with hay fever.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce histamine release and alleviate symptoms of hay fever.
- Ellagic acid: A phenolic acid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation associated with hay fever.
- Triterpenes: A group of compounds with anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and congestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english oak used to make tinctures for hay fever.
- Leaves: They contain compounds like quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, making them effective in alleviating hay fever symptoms.
- Buds: The buds of the Quercus robur tree contain flavonoids, which can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with hay fever.
- Barks: The bark of the Quercus robur tree is rich in quercetin and other flavonoids, which can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with hay fever.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english oak for hay fever.
- Harvest 500g of quercus robur bark in early spring or autumn to ensure optimal potency.
- Dry the collected bark in a warm place or using a food dehydrator at 40°c for 24 hours.
- Chop the dried bark into small pieces and add 500ml of 95% ethanol to make a 1:1 ratio.
- Steep the mixture in a glass container with a lid for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with hay fever because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe.
The tannins present in dandelion root and leaves help to stabilize mast cells, reducing histamine release and subsequent allergic reactions. Additionally, dandelion's natural diuretic effects can help to reduce sinus pressure and congestion by promoting the elimination of excess mucus.
By addressing these underlying symptoms, herbal dandelion tinctures can provide relief from hay fever symptoms such as runny nose, itchy eyes, and sinus pressure.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with hay fever.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate hay fever symptoms by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response to allergens.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene may help with hay fever by inhibiting the release of histamine and other allergic mediators from mast cells, thereby reducing the severity of allergic reactions.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help mitigate the effects of allergens on the body and alleviate hay fever symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for hay fever.
- Flowers: The flowers are the most used part to make tinctures for hay fever because they contain taraxasterol and other compounds that help alleviate allergy symptoms.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used to make tinctures for hay fever because they contain similar compounds to the flowers, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate allergy symptoms.
- Roots: The roots are sometimes used to make tinctures for hay fever because they contain inulin, a prebiotic that can help to regulate the immune system and alleviate allergy symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for hay fever.
- Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in early morning to ensure maximum potency and minimal water content.
- Wash the collected taraxacum officinale roots and leaves with filtered water to remove dirt and debris thoroughly.
- Chop the taraxacum officinale roots and leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
- Steep the chopped taraxacum officinale in 80 proof vodka at a 1:2 ratio for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the resulting liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the final tincture.
6. Galphimia glauca
Yellow flower tinctures helps with hay fever because they contain natural anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling in the nasal passages, sinuses, and airways.
These tinctures also exhibit antihistamine properties, which alleviate symptoms such as congestion, sneezing, and itching. Additionally, their antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate hay fever symptoms.
By incorporating yellow flower tinctures into a holistic treatment plan, individuals may experience significant relief from the discomfort and distress associated with this common seasonal allergy.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Galphimia glauca tinctures that help with hay fever.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Galphimia glauca have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the allergic response and inflammation associated with hay fever.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Galphimia glauca exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which help neutralize free radicals and reduce the severity of hay fever symptoms.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid compound found in Galphimia glauca, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate symptoms of hay fever by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yellow flower used to make tinctures for hay fever.
- Leaves: The leaves of Galphimia glauca are commonly used in tinctures for hay fever due to their reported anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.
- Flowers: The flowers of Galphimia glauca are used in tinctures for hay fever as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that help alleviate allergy symptoms.
- Stems: The stems of Galphimia glauca are another part used in tinctures for hay fever, possibly due to the presence of bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and relieve allergy symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow flower for hay fever.
- Harvest 50 grams of galphimia glauca roots and leaves on a dry day using sharp tools.
- Clean the herb material with a soft brush to remove dirt and debris from the surface gently.
- Combine 50 grams of the cleaned herb material with 750 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks while shaking the container daily.
- Strain the liquid mixture through cheesecloth into another container and discard the solids immediately.
7. Stellaria media
Chickweed tinctures helps with hay fever because of its anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which effectively alleviate symptoms such as congestion, itching, and sneezing.
The tincture's ability to calm the respiratory tract and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses also helps to ease discomfort and relieve pressure.
Additionally, chickweed's natural antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate hay fever symptoms, providing a holistic approach to managing this common allergy.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Stellaria media tinctures that help with hay fever.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate hay fever symptoms by acting as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, reducing the release of histamine and other allergic mediators.
- Saponins: These natural glycosides in Stellaria media tinctures may help reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system's response to allergens, thereby alleviating hay fever symptoms such as congestion and itching.
- Essential oils: The terpenic compounds present in the essential oils of Stellaria media may exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with hay fever, while also providing antimicrobial effects to prevent secondary infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chickweed used to make tinctures for hay fever.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and contain flavonoids, which help in reducing inflammation and alleviating allergy symptoms.
- Flowers: They are a primary source of sesquiterpene lactones, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that help in alleviating hay fever symptoms.
- Roots: They contain triterpenoid saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, helping to reduce allergy symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chickweed for hay fever.
- Gather 1 part dried stellaria media flowers in a clean glass jar with a lid.
- Combine the dried flowers with 2 parts high-proof vodka in the jar.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass jar.
- Discard the solids and transfer the tincture to a dropper bottle for storage and use.
8. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with hay fever because its main active compound, mucilages, soothes and calms irritated mucous membranes in the nose, throat, and sinuses.
By providing a protective coating to the inflamed tissues, it reduces inflammation and congestion, allowing for easier breathing and drainage of mucus.
Additionally, marshmallow tincture's anti-inflammatory properties help alleviate sinus pressure and headaches associated with hay fever, offering natural relief from seasonal allergies.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with hay fever.
- Mucilages: Mucilages, which are complex polysaccharides, help with hay fever by forming a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms such as congestion and sneezing.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to mitigate the effects of histamine release and other allergic responses, thereby providing relief from hay fever symptoms.
- Polyphenols: Polyphenols, which are a diverse group of compounds found in Althaea officinalis, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes, reducing the severity of hay fever symptoms and promoting overall respiratory health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for hay fever.
- Roots: Roots are the primary source of mucilage in Althaea officinalis, which can help soothe and calm irritated nasal passages and sinuses associated with hay fever.
- Leaves: Leaves contain flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of hay fever, such as itching and swelling.
- Flowers: Flowers of Althaea officinalis contain anthocyanins and other bioactive compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of hay fever.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for hay fever.
- Harvest approximately 2 cups of fresh root of althaea officinalis in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Cleanse the root material by gently brushing off debris and then washing it with cold water.
- Chop the root material into small pieces and combine it with 2 cups of vodka or 80 proof grain alcohol.
- Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the container occasionally.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
9. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with hay fever because its anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties alleviate symptoms such as congestion, sneezing, and itchiness.
The tannins present in pot marigold help to reduce swelling and calm irritated tissues, while its flavonoids have a natural affinity for binding to histamine receptors, blocking the effects of allergens on the body.
Additionally, pot marigold's antioxidant properties help to combat oxidative stress caused by pollen exposure, further contributing to relief from hay fever symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with hay fever.
- Trichosanthes saponins and flavonoids: These compounds may help reduce inflammation and alleviate allergic responses associated with hay fever.
- Flavonoids: These may help alleviate symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and runny nose by reducing histamine release and modulating the immune system.
- Triterpenoids: These may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help alleviate symptoms such as congestion, sinus pressure, and itchy eyes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for hay fever.
- Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and carotenoids, the flowers are used to make tinctures due to their potent anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.
- Leaves: Containing calendulin, a glycoprotein with anti-inflammatory properties, the leaves are used to make tinctures to help alleviate hay fever symptoms.
- Seeds: Rich in saponins and flavonoids, the seeds are used to make tinctures due to their ability to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for hay fever.
- Gather 250 grams of dried calendula officinalis flowers and 500 milliliters of 80% ethanol.
- Combine the dried flowers and ethanol in a clean glass jar and seal it tightly.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Discard the solids and transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids for storage.
10. Plantago major
Plantain tinctures helps with hay fever because it is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that soothes irritated tissues in the nose, sinuses, and eyes.
Its anti-allergic properties also reduce histamine release, alleviating symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and congestion.
Additionally, plantain's mucilaginous properties help to protect and heal the mucous membranes, making it an effective natural remedy for hay fever sufferers looking to alleviate their seasonal allergies without relying on pharmaceuticals.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major tinctures that help with hay fever.
- Apolipoproteins: These proteins help alleviate allergic reactions by inhibiting the release of histamine from mast cells, which is a key player in hay fever symptoms.
- Flavonoids: Specifically, flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin in Plantago major exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and swelling associated with hay fever.
- Saponins: These compounds have been shown to have anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially helping to mitigate the symptoms of hay fever by reducing the body's allergic response.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make tinctures for hay fever.
- Leaves: These are rich in antihistamines and anti-inflammatory compounds that help alleviate hay fever symptoms.
- Stems: The stems of Plantago major are believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and itching associated with hay fever.
- Roots: The roots of the plant are thought to contain compounds that help stabilize mast cell membranes, reducing the release of histamine and other allergens that trigger hay fever symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for hay fever.
- Harvest 250 grams of fresh plantago major leaves and flowers on a dry sunny morning when dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested leaves and flowers at 40 degrees celsius for 2 hours to reduce moisture content.
- Chop the dried leaves and flowers into fine pieces and store them in a clean glass container.
- Combine 250 grams of chopped dried herb with 750 milliliters of 95% ethanol and stir gently for 10 minutes.
- Store the mixture in a dark glass container for 2 weeks then strain and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for hay fever?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with hay fever is often a blend of Nettle leaf, Quercetin, and Local plant pollen.
Nettle leaf helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms, while Quercetin is a natural antihistamine that targets allergic reactions. Adding Local plant pollen to the blend can help your body build up a tolerance to the allergens that trigger hay fever, making it a powerful natural remedy for seasonal allergies.
Consult with a healthcare professional before use.
What ailments similar to hay fever are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to hay fever that are treated with herbal tinctures are allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, and bronchial asthma.
Herbal tinctures containing ingredients like butterbur, stinging nettle, and sage have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms such as congestion, itching, and wheezing.
These natural remedies can also reduce the severity of reactions to environmental allergens, providing relief for those who suffer from these conditions.