Natural Antihistamines for Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Natural Antihistamines – Treatment for Dog Allergies

With the approach of Spring, comes the increased likelihood of our dogs suffering from allergic reactions including rhinitis, flea and other insect bites, skin and environmental allergies, like pollen and grass seed reactions.

This extensive guide delves into the world of antihistamines, focusing on their natural sources and their roles in managing canine allergies. It highlights the mechanisms through which these natural remedies exert their effects and discusses considerations and cautions for their use.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
   • Overview of Allergic Reactions in Dogs
   • Importance of Understanding Antihistamines
2. What are Antihistamines?
   • Definition and Importance in Allergy Management
3. How Do Antihistamines Work?
   • H1 Receptor Blockade
   • Histamine Release Inhibition
4. What Allergies Can Antihistamines Treat?
   • Atopic Dermatitis
   • Seasonal Allergies (Pollens)
   • Food Allergies
   • Reactions to Flea Bites
5. Pharmaceutical Antihistamines
   • Common Options and Their Applications
     • Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
     • Loratadine (Claritin)
     • Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
6. Natural Antihistamines
   • Sources and Properties
     • Quercetin
     • Ginger
     • Turmeric
     • Stinging Nettle
     • Butterbur
     • Probiotics
     • Black Pepper (Piper nigrum extract)
     • Bromelain
     • Vitamin C
     • Perilla
     • Sea Buckthorn
     • Yarrow (Achillée)
     • Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA and EPA)
     • Black Cumin Seed Oil
     • Vitamin D
     • Echinacea
     • Chamomile
     • Liquorice
7. Mechanism of Effect of Natural Antihistamines on Allergies
   • Detailed Analysis of How Each Natural Antihistamine Works
8. Considerations and Cautions
   • Dosage and Preparation
   • Interaction with Drugs
   • Individual Allergies
   • Underlying Health Issues
9. FAQ: Antihistamines for Allergies in Dogs
   • What Can I Give My Dog as an Antihistamine?
   • How Can I Treat My Dog’s Allergic Reaction Naturally?
   • What Allergies Can Natural Antihistamines Treat?
   • What Is the Best Natural Antihistamine for Dogs with Skin Allergies?
   • What Is the Most Powerful Natural Antihistamine?
   • Is Turmeric an Antihistamine?
   • Is Honey an Antihistamine?
   • Which Herbs are Natural Antihistamines?
10. Conclusion
    • Summary of Key Points

What are Antihistamines?

Antihistamines are agents that inhibit the action of histamine, a compound released during allergic reactions that causes symptoms such as itching, swelling, and inflammation. By interfering with histamine’s ability to bind to its receptors, antihistamines help alleviate these allergic symptoms, making them crucial in allergy management.

How Do Antihistamines Work?

There are two primary actions of antihistamines: (1)

1. H1 Receptor Blockade: Most antihistamines work by blocking the H1 histamine receptors on cells, preventing histamine from triggering allergic responses.
2. Histamine Release Inhibition: Some natural antihistamines reduce the amount of histamine released from histamine-storing cells (mast cells and basophils).

What Allergies Can Antihistamines Treat?

Antihistamines are versatile in treating a variety of allergic conditions in dogs, such as:

• Atopic dermatitis
• Seasonal allergies (pollens)
• Food allergies
• Reactions to flea bites

Pharmaceutical Antihistamines

Common pharmaceutical antihistamines include:

• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): Fast-acting, suitable for acute allergic reactions.
• Loratadine (Claritin): Less sedating, used for chronic allergy management.
• Cetirizine (Zyrtec): Preferred for skin allergies due to fewer side effects.

Natural Antihistamines for Dogs

These are substances derived from natural sources that exhibit antihistamine properties:

• Quercetin: Found in apples and onions, quercetin stabilises mast cells, helping to reduce the release of histamine and other inflammatory agents.
• Ginger: Contains gingerols, which inhibit histamine release and enhance immune response.
• Turmeric: The active component curcumin helps reduce inflammation by blocking enzymes involved in the inflammatory pathway.
• Stinging Nettle: Acts as a natural blocker of histamine receptors.
• Butterbur: Known to inhibit leukotrienes and histamines, which are part of the allergic response.
• Probiotics: These beneficial bacteria can modulate the immune system, potentially reducing allergic reactions.
• Black Pepper (Piper nigrum extract): Enhances the bioavailability of turmeric and other supplements.
• Bromelain: An enzyme from pineapples that can increase the absorption of quercetin and reduce nasal swelling.
• Vitamin C: Found in citrus and baobab, it supports the immune system and can help degrade histamine.
• Perilla: Reduces allergic reaction through anti-inflammatory and antiallergic effects.
• Sea Buckthorn: Contains Omega-7, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Yarrow: Traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory effects.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA and EPA): Found in seaweed, algae (and fish oil like salmon oil), they are known for reducing inflammation.
• Black Cumin Seed Oil: Modulates the immune response, reducing allergy symptoms.
• Vitamin D: Regulates the immune system and can decrease the risk of allergic reactions.
• Echinacea: Enhances the immune response and may help combat allergies.
• Chamomile: Contains flavonoids that inhibit histamine release.
• Liquorice: Its active compound glycyrrhizin has a corticosteroid-like effect that helps reduce allergic reactions.

Mechanism of Effect of Natural Antihistamines on Allergies in Dogs

Each natural antihistamine has a unique mechanism:

• Quercetin: Stabilises mast cells, preventing them from releasing large amounts of histamine.
• Ginger: Suppresses histamine release and enhances the immune system.
• Turmeric: Inhibits the synthesis of inflammatory prostaglandins.
• Stinging Nettle: Blocks histamine receptors on target cells.
• Butterbur: Acts to inhibit the synthesis and actions of inflammatory leukotrienes.
• Probiotics: Potential to shift immune system responses from a Th2-dominant to a more balanced Th1 response, reducing sensitivity to allergens.
• Black Pepper: Enhances the absorption and systemic effect of other antihistamine agents like Turmeric.
• Bromelain: Helps in the absorption of quercetin and reduces inflammation of the mucous membranes.
• Vitamin C: A potent antioxidant that can degrade histamine.
• Perilla: Contains rosmarinic acid, which has been shown to suppress allergic immune response.
• Sea Buckthorn: The fatty acids help reduce systemic inflammation.
• Yarrow: Contains sesquiterpene lactones that reduce inflammation.
• Omega-3s: Alter cell membrane composition and inhibit inflammatory pathways.
• Black Cumin Seed Oil: Helps in balancing the immune system.
• Vitamin D: Modulates immune responses.
• Echinacea: Potentially boosts immunity and reduces inflammation.
• Chamomile: Antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties help reduce allergic symptoms.
• Liquorice: Mimics the effects of corticosteroids in managing allergic reactions.

Considerations and Cautions

While natural antihistamines offer safer alternatives to pharmaceuticals, they are not without risks. It is crucial to consider the following:

• Dosage and Preparation: The correct dosage and preparation method are key to ensuring safety and efficacy.
• Interaction with Drugs: Natural antihistamines can interact with other medications.
• Individual Allergies: Dogs may be allergic to the very substances intended to treat their allergies.
• Underlying Health Issues: Some ingredients, like liquorice, can exacerbate certain health conditions, such as heart disease.

FAQ: Antihistamines for Allergies in Dogs

What can I give my dog as an antihistamine?

• Natural options include quercetin, turmeric, and omega-3 fatty acids. Always consult a veterinarian before starting any new supplement.

How can I treat my dog’s allergic reaction naturally?

• Consider natural antihistamines such as stinging nettle or butterbur, alongside a nutritionally balanced diet and proper veterinary care.

What allergies can natural antihistamines treat?

• They are effective for skin allergies, environmental allergies, and food sensitivities.

What is the best natural antihistamine for dogs with skin allergies?

• Omega-3 fatty acids and quercetin are highly effective for skin conditions due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

What is the most powerful natural antihistamine for dogs?

• Quercetin is considered one of the most potent natural antihistamines due to its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Is turmeric an antihistamine?

• Yes, turmeric acts as an antihistamine primarily through its anti-inflammatory effects.

Is honey an antihistamine?

• Honey has anti-inflammatory properties and can provide relief, but it’s not primarily an antihistamine.

Which herbs are natural antihistamines for dogs?

• Herbs like nettle, butterbur, chamomile, echinacea and yarrow are considered natural antihistamines.

With increasing interest, and success, in treating allergic reactions naturally, the use of phytotherapy, is gaining momentum with significant success. (2, 3, 4) This guide aims to provide a definitive understanding of natural and pharmaceutical antihistamines, their mechanisms, and their safe use in managing allergies in dogs. Always consult with a veterinarian before beginning any new treatment to ensure it is safe for your specific pet.

Bonza Superfoods and Ancient Grains is a plant-based, vegan and vegetarian friendly dog food. It has been formulated to provide natural, holistic support for your dog against the most common health issues they are likely to suffer from, including allergies.

The formula includes the following natural antihistamines to provide support in combatting allergic reactions that benefit from antihistamine treatment:

• Turmeric
• Chamomile
• Echinacea
• Ginger
• Omega-3 with DHA, EPA and DPA
• Probiotics
• Baobab (for Vitamin C)
• Pineapple (for Bromelain)
• Vitamin D
• Black Pepper (Piper negrum)

Bonza also offers a highly effective natural antihistamine supplement for dog allergies, Bonza Block, that targets the causes of the most common dog allergic responses – food, environmental and fleas.