With this spring predicted to be one of the worst on record for allergies across the U.S., seasonal allergy sufferers are seeking relief anywhere they can find it. If you've tried everything when it comes to allergy medications, only to find yourself drowsy, dry-mouthed and out of it, you may be looking into natural remedies that can help you manage your symptoms without all the side effects associated with traditional pharmaceutical medications.
One of the best natural remedies for allergy symptoms is a relatively little-known herb with the scientific name Perilla frutescens, known colloquially as perilla. Perilla is traditionally grown in China, Japan, Korea, India and Thailand, which is why it's not as well-known in the U.S. If you've ever encountered a shiso leaf at a Japanese restaurant, that's perilla. It's also called "purple mint" and "Chinese basil".
Several studies have shown that perilla can be effective in fighting allergy symptoms, especially allergic rhinitis, asthma, sinusitis and skin and eye irritation. One study from the Hokkaido College of Pharmacy in Japan found that perilla was a more effective treatment than the allergy drug tranilast (known by its brand name Rizaben) for allergy symptoms. Another study published in the International Journal of Molecular Medicine found that perilla worked to treat allergy-related skin conditions.
Perilla is available crushed, dried and sold in tablets, and in extract form. The proper dosage depends on the particular product you use, and of course, you should make sure to consult with your doctor before using it, especially in place of other medications.
To prepare for this spring and summer's especially bad allergy season, stock up on allergy solutions from Allergy Be Gone today.
