A Simple Alternative to Antihistamines

Last updated on January 2nd, 2024 at 01:11 pm

Does your favorite rose bush leave you sneezing, or a bug bite cause an itchy welt on your arm? Chances are you’ve popped a little pink antihistamine pill looking for help. Antihistamines block the body’s histamine receptors. Histamine is a substance released by cells when something harmful is detected like an allergen such as a flower’s pollen or the sting of an insect. These drugs provide some relief, but your symptoms will come roaring back once they’ve worn off. They also come with that one big drawback you know all too well — excessive sleepiness — because they inhibit other essential functions that histamine has in your body.

Fortunately, homeopathy has a simple answer for those suffering from allergies. Histaminum hydrochloricum is a versatile remedy that works for a range of allergic conditions.

How Histamine Works

Histamine is present in the cells and tissues throughout your body, and it’s also naturally occurring in the venom of wasps, bees, and jellyfish. People with allergies may view histamine as the enemy, but it serves a necessary purpose.

On a basic level, histamine helps protect the body and get rid of things that bother you. For instance, histamine gets released during injuries and infections. It works to increase blood flow in the affected area for the benefit of healing. It’s this blood flow effect (vasodilation) that unfortunately causes you to itch, sneeze, or tear up in response to an allergen, which your body perceives as a threat and attacks. As a neurotransmitter, histamine also sends signals to your stomach to produce acid and to your brain to keep you alert, which is the reason antihistamines can leave you feeling sluggish.

Issues arise when histamine levels are excessive, as is the case with allergic conditions. In these situations, harmless substances like food or pollen can set off rapid production of more histamine. As you continue to encounter these triggers, histamine production stays high and leads to those well-known and annoying reactions in our eyes, nose, and skin.

Histaminum Hydrochloricum for Allergies

Histaminum hydrochloricum is prepared from a salt of histamine called histamine dihydrochloride. Unlike antihistamines that block the body’s response, a microdose of histamine dihydrochloride can help your body regulate how much histamine it naturally makes. Therefore, you’ll get all the benefits of allergy relief without feeling drowsy.

This “blue tube” medicine is so versatile that you’ll want to keep it always stocked in your first aid kit. It relieves symptoms of allergic conditions, including hay fever.* You can find it as an active ingredient in AllergyCalm for this purpose. It’s also a useful remedy for hives and reactions to insect stings.*

Want to learn more about the homeopathic uses of Boiron Histaminum hydrochloricum? Watch this video featuring pharmacist Gary Kracoff, NMD, R.Ph.

*Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.

 

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86 thoughts on “A Simple Alternative to Antihistamines”

  1. Hello, My husband is in ICU right now but not on a ventilator,, but on high flow oxygen.. The Dr. is saying he doesn’t have a lot of mucous but has inflammation.. Would Histamine 30 CH help him in any way..

    1. Hello Linda, so very sorry about your husband and we wish him a speedy recovery. Homeopathic treatments for chronic conditions are very specific to each patient. There may be a homeopathic treatment that addresses your condition, but we recommend consulting a practitioner knowledgeable in homeopathy. You can contact the National Center for Homeopathy at (856) 437-4752 or visit http://www.homeopathycenter.org to find one in your area.

  2. I am having a rash spreading over my body from exposure to two covid vaccinated people..
    what homeopathy could I use for this?

    1. Thanks for your question, Annie. At this point, not much is known about the effect of the COVID-19 vaccine on homeopathic medications and vice versa. For information about specific drugs, check with your health care provider.

  3. I have narrow angle glaucoma , and I want to know if this is safe to take it …. I have always take them and I love them …… I know I can’t take over the counter ,regular Medicine for allergies …. This is my only hope
    Thanks
    Maria

    1. Hello Maria, yes it is safe to take. Histaminum doesn’t contain decongestants or conventional antihistamines, which, in allopathic medications, are responsible for the interference with glaucoma. Additionally, Histaminum has no known interactions with other medications.

    1. Hello Cheryl, yes, Histaminum works with your body to relieve allergy symptoms brought on by the overproduction of histamine. It doesn’t mask or suppress, so it makes a great alternative to conventional antihistamines that only work by blocking histamine.

  4. Hello! I am looking for a homeopathic option for an antihistamine that will clear up postnasal drip/congestion. I am currently breast-feeding. I purchased Histaminum Hydrochloricum – is this the correct one for what I am trying to accomplish? And is this breast-feeding safe? Thanks so much!

    1. Hi Emily, Histaminum is a great first choice for allergy relief and there is also Hydrastis canadensis if postnasal drip is your main symptom. You can take both together during an allergy flare-up if needed; however if pregnant or breastfeeding, please ask your health care professional before taking any medicine, including Boiron homeopathic medicines. If your health care professional needs more information on our medicines, they can contact us at 1-800-BOIRON-1.

  5. I started taking boiron histamine hydrochlorium 30 c three pellets under the tongue for nasal allergy it has a lot of side effects like cold sweat, drowsiness, excessive sleep all daywith n throat dry mouth and gets your body temperature down even if you don’t have fever. But the medicine says a different story that it has no side effects. So I stopped it immediately.

        1. Hi Chloe, can you please give us a call at 1-800-264-7661? We would like to learn more about what happened and gather more information, thank you.

  6. Our older teenager has allergies and a hand eczema breakout including blisters and red spots. Is it safe to take Histaminum hydrochloricum 30c and Sulfur 200ck together?

    1. Thank you for your question, David. Yes, it is safe to take more than one homeopathic medicine at the same time. They can be taken together and there’s no need to stagger or alternate the doses.

      1. I’m allergic to birch pollen. I don’t sneeze or have a runny nose, but the pollen causes my bronchi to constrict so I can’t take a breathe after a while outside and then I suffocate. Is there any remedy which could help me? Thanks

        1. Hello Jana, if you are experiencing the inability to take a breath caused by your allergy, we recommend consulting with a healthcare provider to advise treatment. Be well!

  7. I was recently stung by a yellow jacket wasp, and a few days later have a about a 2 inch rash that itches. Is Histaminum Hydrochloricum what I need to take? And is it safe to take during pregnancy?

    1. Hi Keri, Histaminum relieves symptoms of allergies, including reactions from insect stings. You can try that on its own or take it alongside Urtica urens if needed for additional relief from skin rashes with itching due to allergies. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, we recommend you speak to your health care professional before taking any medication, including Boiron medicines. Thank you!

    1. Hello JJ, it’s best to talk with your medical provider before taking any medications, including Boiron homeopathic medicines, while pregnant or breastfeeding.

  8. I’ve been using Afrin to open nasal passages in order to breathe due to allergies and sinus issues. I want a more natural remedy for these issues. What pellet recommendations can you suggest to relieve my continuous nasal congestion.

  9. Hello,
    Does Histaminum hydrochloricum work for a stress induced histamine intolerance? It is not allergy, but a condition of Mast Cells Activation Syndrome.
    Does it work in people who have histamine overproduction due to exposure to different factors?

    1. Hi Eve, because of the nature of your condition, it would be best to speak to a practitioner knowledgeable in homeopathy about your treatment. Histaminum or other homeopathic medicines may be beneficial and they would be able to develop a medicine regimen just for you. Contact the National Center for Homeopathy at info@homeopathycenter.org or http://www.homeopathycenter.org to find one in your area.

    1. Hi Mika, yes, you can safely take Sinusalia and Hydrastis at the same time. Homeopathic medicines have no known interactions with other medicines, herbs, or supplements as well.

  10. Hi I was wondering whether Oscillococinum would negate the effect of the Covid or Flu vaccine? I experienced prolonged effects from the first two vaccines like fatigue, nausea, headaches…. and for the first two days, flu like symptoms. I found that Arnica and Hypericum helped with the body aches with the first two vaccines. The side effects from the second jab was worse than the first. I’m due to get the Booster jab next week and thought I might try to alleviate the side effects. Thanks

    1. Thank you for your question, Karen. At this point, not much is known about the effect of the COVID-19 vaccine on medications and vice versa. For information about specific drug use and the vaccine, check with your health care provider.

  11. Hi boiron. I am suffering from allergic rhinitis in winter season from 13 years.i have tried so many medicines.but no permanent treatment is there.it has runy nose, nasal blocked,sunizing,itching symtoms.
    Can you suggest me medicines.
    So it can be treated.

  12. Hi I have itchy throat and cough and it’s getting worse because of the cold season I guess does Boiron Histaminum Hydrochloricum will work ?

  13. Hi, my 17 year old had been coming up with Urticaria type skin rash for last 4-5 months. Have ruled out food groups but still cannot really figure out what the problem is. He has been taking antihistamines and steroidal creams to releive the itchiness.
    Will Histaminum help?
    Could this sudden occurrence of urticaria be because of hormones at this age. Has anyone had this experience with their teenagers?

    1. Hi Vandy, if the rash is caused by an allergy, then Histaminum is indicated. Urtica urens is another popular remedy for allergic skin reactions. However, these medicines are only for over-the-counter use for up to three days. If you wish to use them for longer, we recommend reaching out to a homeopathic practitioner who can prescribe a treatment regimen tailored to your teen. Find one in your area by contacting the National Center for Homeopathy at info@homeopathycenter.org or visit http://www.homeopathycenter.org.

    2. Yes, my first time breaking out with random hives I was 16 and I am now 44 and still have them. They come when my body gets too hot. I was told by a doctor the nerves can be triggered by a crises in your life. At the time that made since. Why I still suffer from them I don’t know. I have no food allergies or anything. It’s horrible they break out and itch so bad. I’ve been on Claritin and Zyrtec for years to keep it away. It helps, but I’m afraid I am having side effects of those meds now that I’ve been on them so long. That’s why I’m looking into this now.

    1. Hello Nishi, Rhus tox and Bryonia are two main homeopathic medicines for joint pain. Use Rhus tox if moving helps improve your knee pain, or choose Bryonia if your knee is better when rested. You will find both medicines in our Arnicare Arthritis formula, which is easy to use and address multiple symptoms of joint pain.

  14. Dear all,
    I have tried Histaminum 30ch and 200ch for trying to get relieve for the moments where my histamine levels are over the expected and, due to my *histamine intolerance* ground, affects to my sleeping a lot.
    I know that “every patient a different treatment” BUT, is there a way to counteract or nullify the histamine levels in blood given that Histaminum 30ch or 200ch does not give relief in my case ? (only affects to sleep)
    thanks! 😉

    1. Hi Pedro, it would be best to speak to a practitioner knowledgeable in homeopathy about your condition. They will work to get to the root cause of your intolerance and can recommend which medicines and in which dosages will help you the most. To find one in your area, please visit the National Center for Homeopathy. There is a tool to help you locate a homeopath under the Resources section.

    1. Hi Delane, yes you can safety take Histaminum pellets alongside other medications including those for blood pressure. There are no known interactions between homeopathic medicines and other drugs, supplements, or herbs.

  15. Redness in face and almost a sunburn feeling- can this be a side effect after taking the Histaminum pellets?

    1. Hello Jenna, as a manufacturer, we offer over-the-counter medicines for acute, self-limiting conditions. However, health care professionals may instruct their patients to use the medicine for other conditions. Homeopathic treatments for chronic conditions like Mast Cell Activation Syndrome are very specific to each patient. There may be a homeopathic treatment that addresses your condition, but we recommend consulting a practitioner knowledgeable in homeopathy. If you do not have a practitioner, please contact the National Center for Homeopathy at info@homeopathycenter.org or visit http://www.homeopathycenter.org.

  16. I take Singular and want to stop. I have tree and grass pollen allergies., but I am also lethargic all summer into fall. Can you recommend something? I use Arnica for arthritis and like it a lot. Allergy season is starting and I need help. Thank you

    1. Hi Linda, we recommend non-drowsy RhinAllergy medicine. It relieves symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies, including itchy and watery eyes, runny nose, and spasmodic coughing in easy-to-use meltaway tablets, no water needed. Singular is a prescription medication, so please speak to your doctor before stopping it. RhinAllergy has no known drug interactions, so it’s safe to take with Singular or other medications you may already be using.

    1. Hi Richard, homeopathic medicines are available in various dilutions, but C, X, and CK are the most common. The letter indicates which dilution process was chosen, while the number indicates how many times that dilution process was used, and consequently, which symptoms the medicine is meant to treat. You can read more about that here on this page.

      Low dilutions, such as 6X or 6C, will relieve local symptoms such as those can point a finger at (e.g., an insect bite or bruise). High dilutions, such as 30X or 30C, will relieve general symptoms, which is more than one symptom in more than one location with possible behavioral or emotional symptoms (e.g., a very high fever and chills, accompanied by agitation or sleeplessness). If a person has the right medicine, no matter what the dilution, he will see a lessening of symptoms.

  17. Bidisha chaudhuri

    Does histamin hydro..cure permanently the allergy symptoms like hey fever,rhinitis ,allergy cough etc?plz help me..

    1. Hi Bidisha, Histaminum provides temporary relief of allergy symptoms. It is not a permanent cure. Call us at 1-800-BOIRON-1 if you have any more questions, thanks.

  18. I have horrible congestion and have been trying to make sure that the Histaminum Hydrochloricum or sinucalm won’t raise my blood pressure, I am on blood pressure medication and know they can be taken together but will it raise blood pressure ? Thank you

    1. Hi Courtney, homeopathic medicines will not raise your blood pressure or interact with blood pressure medication. SinusCalm and Histaminum do not contain conventional decongestants (like phenylephrine), which are the ingredients responsible for increasing blood pressure and heart rate in allopathic over-the-counter sinus and allergy medicines.

  19. I may have mast cell activation syndrome blood test shows allergies of ragweed, pollen, cedar, dust mites.. Will Histaminum hydrochloricum help
    Homeopathic practitioners are so expensive in my area..
    Can you help/suggest what can I take for these..

    1. Hi Puja, Histaminum relieves symptoms of all allergic conditions, including indoor/outdoor and seasonal allergies, as well as hives. However, we do recommend consulting a homeopathic practitioner who can provide you with an individualized treatment plan.

    1. Hi Tim, Histaminum is not contraindicated with your condition, but be sure to consult with your healthcare provider regarding OTC medications including homeopathics. Thanks!

  20. Hi, I am taking metphormin, zenuvia for diabetes, also taking weekly pen injection Trulicity for diabetes. I am taking Singulair for bronchitis, Astrovastatin for cholesterol, Remipril for blood pressure, potassium citrate for kidney. I recently have hives, I bought Histaminum hydrochlorocium 30c, is it okay for me to take it? Please let me know.

    1. Hi hj, there are no known interactions between Histaminum 30C and the medications you listed. In general, homeopathic medicines above 4C and 8X have no risk of interfering with other drugs, herbs, or supplements. You can always call us at 1-800-BOIRON-1 if have any questions, thanks.

  21. Does the Kids rhinallergy have benadryl in it ? My son has Epilepsy and benadryl can make seizures worse .

    1. Hi Samantha, no RhinAllergy Kids does not contain diphenhydramine or any conventional antihistamines such as cetirizine, chlorpheniramine, fexofenadine, or loratadine. You will find a full listing of RhinAllergy’s active and inactive ingredients on the back of the box. Please call us at 1-800-BOIRON-1 if you have any more questions, thank you.

    1. Kelly Olsen-Stanko

      Hi Dierdre, there are no known drug interactions between Zyrtec and Histaminum. Homeopathic medicines in general are safe to take with conventional medications and even herbs or supplements without the risk of interacting.

  22. Can this product be taken along with standard, over the counter medicine such as Zyrtec? This product alone isn’t relieving all of my symptoms in the Spring. Thank you.

    1. Hello Sheila, there are no known drug interactions between Zyrtec and Histaminum. Homeopathic medicines in general are safe to take with other medications or supplements without the risk of interacting.

  23. Hi. Can I take Histaminum hydrochloricum 30C as a daily preventive during allergy season? I started taking 5 pellets, 3 times a day when my allergy symptoms started. It was a great relief but I fear that they will return if I stop usage. Can I continue taking a daily dosage?

    1. Hello Val, the duration of use is listed on the product label. For Histaminum, the length of use is 3 days. We recommend that you consult with your health care professional on any medicine that you intend to take for a longer period of time. Thanks!

  24. Hello. I am taking histaminum hydrocloricum 30c and euphrasia 30c for chronic allergies. Stopped Zyrtec after taking for two years and had withdrawal symptoms. I have used two blue tubes of each HH 30c and EO 30c
    I am feeling better after using these homeopathic pellets. Can I continue to take throughout the allergy season. This is the worst allergy season I’ve ever had. These are the only things that have helped me along with genexa amd aller-calm. Thank you! My family had been using BOIRON products for years..

    1. Hi Kelly,
      We’re happy to hear that our medicines have been helping your allergy symptoms!
      We recommend stopping use of our medicines and seeking the advice of a healthcare provider if your symptoms persist for more than 3 days or worsen.
      Thanks!

  25. Hi. I’ve been dealing with an allergic reaction (to what, I don’t know) that makes my tongue and lips hurt and slightly swollen. It has happened a few times over the past few years and on two occasions it was bad enough that I took Benadryl, which got rid of it after using it for a week. However, I am 72 years old and Benadryl is hard on me. My body responds with fibromyalgia symptoms, including bad headaches and vertigo. Recently I learned of Histaminum Hydrochloricum and tried it with some success about 10 days ago. Then, a week later the tongue and lip symptoms came back, so I am once again taking doses of the HH. This time it is apparently not working, or hasn’t after two days. I noticed on your website that skin reactions can be treated with 5 pellets every hour until symptoms lessen. Does that seem like something I could do with with this allergic reaction? Anything else you can recommend? Thank you!

    1. Hi Jennifer, we recommend getting immediate emergency help if you experience hives along with swelling in or around your mouth. We like to know more about your experience. Can you please call us at 1-800-264-7661? Thank you.

  26. Hello, i have an allergy to some foods and also with alcohol.. my immunoglobulin is high 240 and eosinophils is 800.. bcz of this i have breathlessness problem and nose gets blocked … I can take this medicine please answer

    1. Hi Petrina,
      Histaminum Hydrochloricum is indicated for allergies. If your red, sore eyes are a result of allergies, it should be helpful.
      Thanks!

  27. Taking histamum for seasonal allergies the first time and my symptoms are worse. Is this normal to be worse before better?

    1. Hi Jessica, yes sometimes symptoms get worse before they get better when starting a homeopathic medicine. That’s because homeopathic medicines don’t suppress symptoms like conventional medications do. However, if you don’t see a lessening of symptoms within three days, you should discontinue use and consider switching to a different medicine more suited to your symptoms. If you need help finding the right medicine, you can call us at 1-800-BOIRON-1 or use our free Medicine Finder app.

    1. Hi JJ,

      Histaminum hydrochloricum is prepared from synthetic Histamine dihydrochloride, a salt of histamine. This substance comes in two forms: an odorless, colorless crystal or a whitish crystalline powder that has an acidic salty taste.

      Thanks!

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