Seasonal allergies are no fun for sufferers; itchy eyes, sneezing fits and a constant runny nose can make the springtime miserable. Pharmaceutical medications with antihistamine and anti-inflammatory agents are often effective but can have undesirable side effects. Perhaps those of use suffering should consider CBD. Research and experience show that CBD has both antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties and can be used as a natural alternative to alleviate allergic symptoms.

A recent study looking at CBD’s immune suppressing action concluded CBD acts as an antihistamine when ingested, controlling immune responses when the body comes into contact with potential allergens. The working theory is that CBD may prevent some allergic reactions before they occur by suppressing responses from the immune system. This indicates that CBD acts as an immunoregulatory agent and may deter allergic response.

CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties are well documented. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (an important series of receptors located throughout the body). When interacting with these receptors, CBD triggers an anti-inflammatory response. This could make CBD a valuable tool for those suffering from inflammation of the nose, throat, face, eyes, and skin.

The science suggests daily CBD may also work as a preventative treatment in seasonal allergies, preventing or rolling back the onset of unpleasant symptoms. Dosage will vary from person to person and, as always, it is important to record your dose, track efficacy and titrate up/down accordingly.

Using broad spectrum CBD products for allergies is best. The terpenes present contain other potential helpers. A 2009 study discovered that pinene (a terpene found in cannabis and hemp) reduced allergic symptoms in mice. The study suggests that pinene is an extremely promising anti-allergenic agent. Another important terpene found in our full spectrum products is beta caryophyllene, which research has found to be very anti-inflammatory. Our philosophy is to let the wisdom of nature guide us. We do not remove terpenes or any of the minor cannabinoids from our products, we extract and enhance all of what is present in the plant knowing it will make for the most effective remedies.

If you are curious about trying CBD for seasonal allergies we suggest trying a high CBD tincture. Valentine X and Ringo’s Gift are both recommended for daytime use, with no drowsiness. To establish an effective dose, start with 10 drops in the morning and see if symptoms abate. If symptoms persist try adding incrementally to the dose, it may take a week or two to find your dose.

Dr Moscowitz recommends using a CBD rich vaporizer, if you are sensitive to a particular environment or feel the onset of an allergic reaction. Vaporizing is the quickest method of getting CBD into the bloodstream via the lungs.

There is no guarantee that CBD will alleviate seasonal allergies, but following the current research and anecdotal reports, it certainly has potential as a natural remedy for exaggerated immune response, inflamed membranes and the dreaded sniffles and sneezes.

Synergy Wellness recommended products:

Ringo’s Gift CBD-rich tincture available three ways: #141 in sesame oil, #142 in organic alcohol, #143 in olive oil.

Valentine X CBD-rich tincture : #110 in organic alcohol, #111 in olive Oil, #112 in sesame oil

AC/DC CBD-rich vaporizer cartridge #351

Small-Howard, A. L., Shimoda, L. M., Adra, C. N., & Turner, H. (2005). Anti-inflammatory potential of CB1-mediated cAMP elevation in mast cells. Biochemical Journal, 388(2), 465-473.

Atalay, S., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2020). Antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of cannabidiol. Antioxidants, 9(1), 21.

Nam, S. Y., Chung, C. K., Seo, J. H., Rah, S. Y., Kim, H. M., & Jeong, H. J. (2014). The therapeutic efficacy of α-pinene in an experimental mouse model of allergic rhinitis. International immunopharmacology, 23(1), 273-282.