Goodbye allergies – how CBD can help with allergies
It’s that time of year again… for many of us, springtime means runny noses and swollen eyes. Almost 10% of Germans in urban areas suffer from pollen allergies. And pollen aren’t the only allergens we’re reacting to, either.
But there’s a light at the end of the allergy-tunnel: cannabidiol. CBD can work as a natural antihistamine and help to reduce or even relieve annoying symptoms.
What actually is an allergy?
Simply put, allergies are a malfunction of the immune system. Our immune system is tricked by substances in our environment that are technically harmless, so the body thinks that substances such as pollen, animal hairs, foods, personal hygiene products or medicines are damaging to the body, and reacts with a disproportionate defensive reaction.
When the immune system reacts hyper-sensitively, it releases histamines, and unpleasant symptoms of an allergic reaction manifest. These can be as varied as the substance that causes them, and include nose and eye irritations, hay fever, sneezing, coughing, constipation, diarrhea, dermatitis, skin inflammations or infections.
Allergens (the trigger of the allergic reaction) exist pretty much everywhere – so escaping them is almost impossible. This can make life somewhat complicated for allergy sufferers, both physically and mentally. Anyone who has experienced an allergic reaction can relate to this. And those who suffer from pollen allergies for several months a year truly know that the struggle is real.
Which remedies help against pollen and other allergies?
The most common therapy for allergies is taking antihistamines. They keep the body’s histamine production in check, and are taken to reduce allergy problems. Most antihistamines can be bought over the counter at pharmacies. However, they can have a series of negative side effects, such as extreme tiredness, nausea or difficulty seeing.
Especially for those affection by pollen allergies, “nose spray addiction” is an issue in acute phases. And this is where cannabidiol (CBD) comes into play! As an immune strengthening remedy and natural antihistamine, it can help reduce or even completely replace the need for common antihistamines.
How does CBD help against allergies?
CBD, which is short for cannabidiol, is one of more than a hundred cannabinoids, and – in contrast to THC – does not have a psychoactive effect. This means it doesn’t create a “high”. CBD oils are produced from legal types of hemp which contain less than 0,2% THC.
Cannabinoids, which include CBD, can actually be produced in our own bodies, too! They stimulate a part of our nervous system call the endocannabinoid system (ECS for short). Our ECS in charge of pain reduction and our immune system. It also tries to keep the body’s natural balance in check, and rebalances it if needed. This is how CBD can work as a natural antihistamine against allergies, too.
- CBD strengthens the immune system
When allergies are present, the immune system is under a lot of stress. CBD is a fantastic way to strengthen the immune system because it is absorbed as a messenger from the body itself, which has a positive effect on the immune and nervous systems. The ECS can help prevent histamines, the trigger for many allergic reactions, from being released.
- CBD is anti-inflammatory
Cannabinoids are very helpful in the treatment of infections and inflammation, a further typical symptom of allergies. When supported by CBD the ECS can suppress the release of inflammatory substances such as histamines. This makes CBD an ideal remedy for pollen allergies. Allergy sufferers can actively combat stuffy noses and annoying coughs by taking CBD drops. CBD is especially beneficial against respiratory problems and can also help asthma-patients get relief.
- CBD has antimicrobial
Many allergy sufferers have problems with their skin, from eczema to itching and even pain. CBD has an antimicrobial effect and can help affected areas of skin to heal more quickly. A healthy skin barrier protects the body from allergens in the air.
- CBD calms the nerves
People who suffer from allergies also know the unpleasant stress, anxiety and even depressive moods it can bring. Here to the ECS plays a role as it regulates our emotions. With enough cannabinoids, our serotonin levels rise, too. This means increased wellbeing and happiness, which makes the body more resilient to stress.
Better sleep with CBD
A restful night’s sleep can also be dependent on the ECS. The calming effect of CBD can give us deeper sleep, which strengthens the immune system and overall wellbeing. How? People who sleep better are more relaxed, have better self awareness and have a better start in the day.
The right CBD dosage for allergies
There are so many CBD products for allergies available that you can choose from a wide range of administration forms. CBD drops, which also work as a remedy for pollen allergies, are especially popular because they are so precise to dose. There are many ways to take CBD drops.
Usually the oil is absorbed orally, and drops are placed directly under the tongue. From there it is absorbed by the oral mucosa. Since some people don’t enjoy the taste, the oil can also be taken with different foods, such as CBD cookies.
Everyone has a different reaction to CBD oil. So it’s best to start with a low dosage, and if it’s working well, gradually increase. If no improvements are happening, the amount can be adjusted, or you could also choose a CBD oil with a higher concentration of CBD.
Depending on the type and severity of the allergy, CBD oils with 5 or 10% are recommended. The so-called microdose is between 0,5 and 20mg CBD per day. People with light allergies should take CBD as a natural antihistamine by consuming 3 drops of a 5% CBD oil twice per day.
In the following week, the dosage can be increased to three drops twice a day. In the third week, you could increase to 5 drops twice a day, if you wish. If your allergy symptoms are heavy, you might choose a 10% CBD oil and take between 3 and 5 drops twice a day. To determine the ideal dosage, it’s important to pay attention to body weight.
Each dosage should be individual as the results can vary from person to person. Once the right dosage is found, CBD can work as a natural antihistamine and have positive effects on the immune and nervous systems.
To counteract pollen allergies or hay fever, start daily treatment with CBD oil before the peak season begins. The amount of drops can be increased throughout the allergy season between one or two drops every 2 or 3 days, if needed. In acute cases the dosage can be increased and even doubled without needing to worry.
Hemp tea also contains CBD and can be used for throat infections. Add a little coconut oil or honey to your tea for a calming and soothing warm drink. And of course it’s tasty, too!
CBD can also be used externally
Many allergies and allergic reactions are experienced on the skin – which is stressful for your skin and can weaken the skin’s natural barrier. CBD oil can be placed directly on affected areas to treat skin irritations. Even when using it externally, make sure to start your CBD oil therapy with a small dosage of a CBD oil with a low CBD percentage.
Conclusion: CBD is an important aid in the treatment of allergies
As you can see, CBD can be a valuable support in treating allergy symptoms, and is proven to improve everyday life for allergy sufferers. And there’s a wide variety of CBD products out there, so you can find the CBD product that works best for you! Wave allergies and annoying side effects of commonly used antihistamines goodbye. No more allergies, no more chemicals!
Photo: Yaroslav Danylchenko / Stocksy
