Lemon Balm and Nettle Tea for Allergies: A Natural Remedy for Seasonal Relief

As the seasons change and pollen fills the air, many of us find ourselves reaching for tissues, sneezing and feeling run-down from allergies. While over-the-counter medications can provide relief, nature offers a host of herbs that can help soothe allergy symptoms naturally. One such herbal remedy is a delicious, calming tea made with Lemon Balm and Nettle, two herbs known for their powerful anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.

Lemon Balm and Nettle Tea Recipe for Allergy Relief

This herbal tea blend not only provides allergy relief but also promotes relaxation and supports overall health. You’ll love the fresh, slightly tangy flavor of Lemon Balm paired with the earthy, mild taste of Nettle.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon dried Lemon Balm leaves (Melissa officinalis)
• 1 tablespoon dried Nettle leaves (Urtica dioica)
• 1 teaspoon dried Elderflower (Sambucus nigra)
• 1 teaspoon dried Peppermint leaves (Mentha piperita)
• 1 teaspoon dried Chamomile flowers (Matricaria chamomilla)
• 2 cups of water
• Honey or Vermont Maple Syrup (optional)
  (for sweetness, to taste)

Instructions:

In a teapot or a heatproof glass container, combine the dried Lemon Balm, Nettle, Elderflower, Peppermint, and Chamomile.

Boil 2 cups of water and pour it over the herbs.

Cover the container and let the herbs steep for about 10-15 minutes to fully extract their medicinal properties.

Strain the tea using a fine mesh strainer or tea infuser.

Add honey or maple syrup to taste if you’d like a touch of sweetness.

Pour into your favorite mug and enjoy the soothing benefits!

Health Benefits of Each Herb:

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Lemon Balm, a member of the mint family, is known for its calming properties. It’s often used to reduce stress and anxiety, which can be especially helpful during allergy season when your immune system is on high alert. Lemon Balm has also shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce the swelling and irritation caused by allergens.

• Benefits: Calming, anti-inflammatory, mild antihistamine, helps with respiratory symptoms such as congestion.

• Use for: Soothing irritated nasal passages, calming seasonal allergy symptoms, and promoting overall relaxation.

Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Nettle is a powerhouse when it comes to allergy relief. It acts as a natural antihistamine, helping to stabilize mast cells and reduce the body's allergic response. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, iron, and magnesium, which support overall immune function.

• Benefits: Natural antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, rich in nutrients, supports the immune system.

• Use for: Reducing sneezing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion caused by allergens.

Elderflower (Sambucus nigra)

Elderflower has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for respiratory issues, including seasonal allergies. It helps to relieve sinus congestion and acts as an anti-inflammatory to reduce swelling in the airways. Elderflower also has mild diuretic properties, which can help flush out toxins that may be exacerbating your allergy symptoms.

• Benefits: Antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory, helps reduce sinus congestion and mucus production.

• Use for: Clearing the sinuses, soothing a runny nose, and calming allergy-induced respiratory issues.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Peppermint is another herb that supports respiratory health by opening up airways and helping with congestion. Its cooling, soothing properties provide immediate relief for irritated throats and sinuses. Peppermint also has a mild decongestant effect, making it an excellent herb to include in your allergy-fighting tea.

• Benefits: Decongestant, soothing for the throat, helps open up airways.

• Use for: Easing nasal congestion, soothing a scratchy throat, and promoting clear breathing.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Chamomile is a gentle, calming herb that is often used to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation. Chamomile can help with the irritation that accompanies seasonal allergies, such as itchy eyes and a scratchy throat. It also helps to calm the nervous system, which is particularly helpful if allergy symptoms are causing you stress or anxiety.

• Benefits: Calming, anti-inflammatory, helps with skin irritation and inflammation.

• Use for: Easing eye irritation, soothing inflammation, and promoting relaxation.

Why This Tea Works for Allergies:

• Natural antihistamine: Nettle and Lemon Balm act as natural antihistamines, helping to reduce the body’s reaction to allergens.

• Anti-inflammatory: Lemon Balm, Nettle, and Elderflower all reduce inflammation, which can help relieve the discomfort associated with swollen nasal passages, congestion, and itchy eyes.

• Respiratory support: Peppermint and Elderflower open up the airways and clear congestion, making it easier to breathe during allergy season.

Tips for Best Results:

• Drink this tea regularly during allergy season to keep symptoms at bay.

• You can drink it hot for soothing relief or cold for a refreshing, hydrating iced tea option.

• For added benefits, consider adding raw local honey to the tea. Honey can help desensitize your body to local pollen over time, providing additional allergy relief.

Lemon Balm and Nettle Tea is a tasty, natural way to support your body during allergy season. With the added benefits of Elderflower, Peppermint, and Chamomile, this herbal blend can help reduce inflammation, ease congestion, and calm allergic reactions. Incorporate this tea into your daily routine for a holistic approach to allergy relief, and enjoy the soothing effects of nature’s finest herbs.