Rhinitis: 5 teas to treat the symptoms of this allergy

In this article you will know 5 teas to treat the symptoms of rhinitis , how to prepare them and when and how to consume these recipes. See tips on how to treat this problem and how to prevent it. Check it out below!

Rhinitis is an inflammation of the mucosa that lines the nasal cavity and causes symptoms such as stuffiness, itching, discharge and sneezing. The Brazilian Association of Allergy and Immunology – ASBAI estimates that around 10 to 25% of people suffer from allergic rhinitis.

However, according to medical allergist Camila Ventura , contrary to what many people think, not all rhinitis is allergic.

“Allergic rhinitis is usually caused by dust mites, fungi, pollen and animal epithelium. Other common rhinitis are: infectious, caused by viruses and bacteria; seasonal caused by changes in the relative humidity of the air; medication; among others less common such as cholinergic, hormonal or caused by anatomical variants”, he explains.

5 teas that treat rhinitis

Although rhinitis is a very uncomfortable problem, the good news is that drinking teas can help alleviate symptoms. Camila says the teas help in the feeling of well-being they provide.

“In cases of infectious rhinitis, which are the well-known colds, when taken hot, tea helps to increase body temperature, causing sweating and improving symptoms of cold and weakness. In addition, drinking tea is a way to increase water intake; and water will never be too much in these cases”, adds the doctor.

Here are some teas that can help relieve rhinitis symptoms:

1- Lemon tea with ginger

The allergist says that this tea provides vitamin C and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, reducing the discomfort of rhinitis.

Fill a pot with the amount of water equivalent to a cup of tea and bring the fire. Allow to heat up to create small air bubbles, turn off before bringing to a boil.

Add a slice of ginger to the water – it should be about a finger wide. Soak the ginger for about 5 minutes, then strain to remove the root. Once that’s done, just squeeze the juice of a lemon into the water.

2- Licorice tea

Licorice has very powerful anti-inflammatory properties and, therefore, it is indicated for the treatment of allergies. It also helps to fight coughing and phlegm.

The potent part against rhinitis is the licorice root. Boil a liter and a half of water. Turn off the heat and add two tablespoons of the herb root. Smother it for 10 minutes, strain and then you can drink.

3- Echinacea tea

Echinacea is also used to treat inflammatory processes and upper respiratory problems. Furthermore, it is an excellent regulator of the immune system.

Place a teaspoon of chopped root or echinacea leaves in a cup of boiling water. Cover the cup and let it stand for 15 minutes. Then, just strain and it’s ready to drink. It is also effective in capsule or liquid extract form.

4- Calendula tea

Calendula’s properties include its anti-inflammatory, soothing and anti-allergic action, which is great for alleviating the symptoms of rhinitis.

Put a teaspoon of the marigold flowers in a teacup of boiling water. Let it sit for 10 minutes. Then strain and drink.

5- Butterbur Tea

Butterbur provides many benefits to the respiratory system as it helps to clear the congested sinuses and airways. It also has a powerful anti-allergic effect.

Place a teaspoon of burr leaves in a teacup of boiling water. Let the infusion sit for 10 minutes, then strain and drink.

But beware, always consult your doctor before consumables any type of herb. They can be harmful for those who suffer from certain health problems or are pregnant, as well as causing side effects if consumed in excess.

Honey and apple cider vinegar are also great allies

In addition to teas, Camila recommends using honey . “Honey is a natural food with excellent anti-inflammatory action in the upper airways. Remembering that it cannot be used in children under 1 year and has its restrictions in patients with diabetes”.

Herbalists also recommend ingesting 2-3 tablespoons per day of natural apple cider vinegar , diluted with a little water. In case of children, only one teaspoon should be used.

How to treat rhinitis?

In addition to the consumption of teas, it is essential to follow up with a specialist doctor. Camila points out that the treatment of rhinitis can be done in three stages: environmental hygiene, drug treatment and anti-allergy vaccines.

“The conventional treatment of rhinitis is done by controlling the environment, reducing exposure to what causes inflammation; use of saline solution for cleaning; use of antihistamines and nasal anti-inflammatory medication in some cases. In allergic rhinitis, we can associate immunotherapy, which are known allergy vaccines , to stimulate immunological tolerance”, explains the allergist.

See also: Teas against sinusitis

Beware of dust mites and dust

According to ASBAI, in Brazil, the main cause of allergic rhinitis is dust; and the main factor of dust that causes allergy is the dust mite. There are several mites, and the one most frequently related to allergy is Dermatophagoides ssp ., as one of its food sources is skin peeling.

These mites live in the deep layers of tissues, hugging the fibers. Thus, mattresses and upholstery are the places with the highest concentration of mites, as this is where we find a lot of skin peeling. In winter time, this is even worse, as during this period, blankets and clothes that have been kept for a long time are used, and may be full of mites and fungi.

Therefore, some care with the environment is essential to avoid a rhinitis crisis. “Keep the house airy , free from mold and moisture; avoid using brooms, giving preference to a vacuum cleaner with HEPA filter or a damp cloth; Avoid strong and irritating smells, avoid dust accumulation and always sanitize your nostrils with saline solution , regardless of the symptoms”, guides Camila.

The use and contact with pillows and pillows made of feathers or other materials that may cause allergies should also be avoided. The use of protective covers for mattresses and pillows, as well as substances to eliminate mites from the environment, are effective when applied.

Other recommendations and precautions

The simple way to avoid allergy is to avoid contact with substances that trigger symptoms. Camila also adds that allergic rhinitis has a genetic inheritance and lifestyle habits can also minimize flare-ups.

“Avoid crowded environments and prefer outdoor activities. Having contact with nature, having good eating and hygiene habits at home, and exercising will bring an immune booster, reducing the chances of more serious symptoms”, advises the professional.

In the case of food, if you notice nasal obstruction, runny nose and sneezing when you eat a certain food, it will be necessary to stop consuming it, or, at least, reduce its consumption. Cigarettes should also be avoided as smoke is extremely harmful.

In addition, the house, and especially the bedroom of people who suffer from rhinitis, must be cleaned frequently and must have access to good ventilation and sunlight. Ideally, it doesn’t have carpets, rugs, curtains, stuffed animals or other furniture and utensils that can accumulate dust.