Histamine is a compound that is released by cells in response to injury and in allergic and inflammatory reactions, causing contraction of smooth muscle and dilation of capillaries.

Histamine is an inflammatory chemical involved in our local immune response as well as regulating physiological function in the gut, acting as a neurotransmitter. During the time of seasonal allergies, the body's immune system recognizes pollen as an invader. Our body produces histamine, as a defense mechanism, which is what we call an "allergic reaction." Histamine attaches to the cells in our body and causes irritation. It is the deficiency of systemic proteolytic enzymes that triggers an allergic reaction as histamines gather in the synapses.

An antihistamine serves to reduce or eliminate the effects brought on by histamine, a chemical mediator released during allergic reactions. Antihistamines are commonly used for allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, contact dermatitis, urticaria (hives), angioedema and pruritus (atopic dermatitis, insect bites).

Symptoms: Inflammation of the nasal passages, sinuses and eyelids that causes sneezing, runny nose, watery, red, itchy eyes, and wheezing.

Essential Oil Suggestions:
Lavender – internally and topically
Basil – internally and topically
German Chamomile – internally and topically
Thyme – internally and topically
Oregano – internally and topically
Caraway Seed
Clove – internally and topically *Caution: Anticoagulant properties
Oregano – internally and topically
Fennel – rich in Quercetin, a strong antihistamine. Make as a tea 2-3 times daily
Ginger – works especially well with hives. Make as tea 2-3 times daily
Strength - topically
Balance – topically, inhalation
Mountain Top – topically, inhalation

Application:
Diffuse: 5 minutes every 30 minutes or as needed
Topical: as needed
Capsule: 00, diluted, 2 times daily *See HEO's Comment below.
Tea: Heat water, add local raw honey and a couple drops of essential oil (Ginger, Fennel). Use a ceramic cup ~ never put essential oils into plastic.

Other considerations:
- Papaya juice can be taken internally as well as applied topically
- Jewelweed topically
- Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) taken internally via capsule or as a tea from fresh leaves
- Echinacea
- Vitamin C when used at high doses (3,000 to 5,000)
- Ginger – boil a sliced ginger root in 8 cups water for 30 minutes. Allow the herbs to steep for another 30 minutes. Strain and drink as a tea 2-3 cups daily. This "tea" can be added to a hot bath and soak for 20-30 minutes or dip a wash cloth in the tea once it has warmed to a temperature that is safe for your skin, and use as a compress.

Testimonies
The following anecdotal testimonies have not been reviewed by the FDA.
The products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, prevent, treat or cure disease.
Information shared on the HEO website is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice given by your trusted health care provider.
We believe that essential oils are provided by the Lord to support our health and well-being.
The Lord is our wisdom, protector and healer.
(Genesis 1:29-30, Ezekiel 47:12) 

1. I used to have very bad pollen allergies and regularly took over-the-counter and prescription antihistamine meds to stop the symptoms, but a friend convinced me to try using Lavender instead. I filled ½ of an 00 capsule with Lavender and swallowed it. Just before doing this I was really suffering with my sinuses, had a runny nose and frequent sneezing. I was totally miserable. After taking that one capsule, the entirety of my symptoms disappeared, and that was that. I didn't have to take another capsule. Lavender is a great antihistamine!!!

Please see our Allergies section for more information and testimonies.

[HEO's Comment: Oral use should only be considered with respect for how concentrated the oils are. HEO does not advocate internal use of essential oils without appropriate knowledge and understanding of how to administer, for what purpose, how much, which essential oils, safety concerns and so on. Kurt Schnaubelt Ph.D. notes that "French aromatherapy literature contains many references to using oils orally." He goes on to note that "generally 1 drop is always enough when ingesting essential oils." A potential toxicity hazard could occur when untrained people use essential oils orally and ingest too much. Keep in mind that while medical doctors or health care practitioners may prescribe essential oils for internal use, they are trained and experienced in the safe application of essential oils.]