A delightful, refreshing drink with herbs traditionally used for hay fever.
The pollen season can really be tough. It’s no fun having to suffer from itchy eyes, a stuffy nose, and a fatigue that never seems to go away.
You may have tried medications and maybe they helped. But many want to find a way to support the body more naturally. Not necessarily as a replacement but a good way to complement.
This herbal blend is based on classic plants long used to soothe inflammation, support the immune system, and influence the body’s handling of histamine.
What happens in the body during hay fever?
Hay fever is actually an overreaction from the immune system.
When the body encounters pollen, it interprets it as a threat. In response, histamine is released, a substance that triggers several symptoms many recognize:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy eyes
- Brain fog
- Fatigue
So it’s not the pollen itself that is the problem, but how the body reacts to it.
How herbs can help you
Herbal teas have been used for centuries to reduce inflammation, calm the nervous system, and support the body’s natural cleansing.
Several of the herbs in this recipe contain substances that can affect how histamine is released and broken down in the body, making them an interesting complement during pollen season.
And perhaps most importantly, it’s an easy way to consume them. And who doesn’t love a refreshing iced tea on the warmer days of the year?
Why these ingredients?
Nettle leaves – Have long been used as a natural antihistamine and for inflammation. Can support the airways and help reduce sneezing and nasal congestion.
Peppermint – Cooling and refreshing. Can feel opening for the airways and also supports digestion, which is important for the body’s handling of histamine.
Chamomile – A mild and calming herb with anti-inflammatory properties. Often used to support both the immune system and nervous system.
Ginger – A root with both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Can support the immune system and help reduce inflammation in the sinuses.
Lemon balm – Has calming properties and can help reduce stress in the nervous system, which can sometimes intensify allergic reactions.
Rooibos – Caffeine-free tea rich in quercetin, an antioxidant linked to reduced histamine release.
Turmeric – An anti-inflammatory root that also supports liver processes, which can help the body handle histamine more effectively.
What you need
- 1 tbsp dried nettle leaves
- 1 tbsp chamomile flowers
- 1 tbsp lemon balm
- 1 tbsp rooibos tea
- 1 tsp peppermint (or a fresh sprig)
- A piece of fresh ginger
- 1 tsp turmeric (or fresh)
- Juice from ½ a lemon
Optional: a little raw honey
Serving: ice and fresh mint
How to make it
Boil 1 liter of water and let it cool slightly.
Place all the herbs, ginger, and turmeric in a heatproof jug or teapot.
Pour over the water and let steep for about 15–20 minutes.
Strain and add lemon juice, and optionally honey.
Let cool and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Serve cold with ice and fresh mint or lemon slices. And enjoy!
