Protocol · Immune & Inflammatory
Allergic Rhinitis (Seasonal Allergies / Hay Fever) Protocol
Butterbur and Quercetin are the core of this stack, with 2 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Allergic Rhinitis (Seasonal Allergies / Hay Fever).
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
4 supplements · 3 graded · 3 confirmed studies
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Butterbur | Amount listed: 75 mg twice daily (PA-free extract) | Petasins inhibit leukotriene synthesis and block histamine receptors, reducing allergic inflammation
| Grade B for Allergy Symptoms500 people | ||
| Quercetin | Amount listed: 500 mg twice daily | Stabilizes mast cells and inhibits histamine release while reducing inflammatory cytokine production | Not graded yet | ||
Confirmed studies for Quercetin (titles as PubMed lists them) | |||||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| Spirulina | Amount listed: 2 g daily | Phycocyanin inhibits IgE-mediated histamine release and modulates Th1/Th2 immune balance
| Grade B for Allergy Symptoms2 studies · 194 people | ||
Confirmed studies for Spirulina (titles as PubMed lists them) | |||||
| Stinging Nettle | Amount listed: 300–600 mg daily (freeze-dried) | Contains bioactive compounds that inhibit prostaglandin synthesis and reduce histamine-induced inflammation
| Grade C for Allergy Symptoms1 study · 69 people | ||
Confirmed studies for Stinging Nettle (titles as PubMed lists them) | |||||
Shop the evidence-backed picks
The collection holds the supplements we grade A or B for its theme, in third-party tested products where the catalog has them. It opens in our Fullscript store. You can look through it without signing in; Fullscript asks for a free account to order.
Or shop one supplement
The 2 supplements in this protocol graded A or B. Each opens third-party tested products, matched to the dose above where we can.
- Grade B
- Grade B
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How this protocol works
In plain language
Allergic rhinitis occurs when your immune system overreacts to harmless substances like pollen, dust, or pet dander. Upon exposure, mast cells release histamine and other inflammatory chemicals, causing sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes.
- Butterbur is as effective as antihistamines like cetirizine in clinical trials but without causing drowsiness. It blocks both leukotriene and histamine pathways. Only use PA-free (pyrrolizidine alkaloid-free) extracts to ensure liver safety.
- Quercetin is a natural mast cell stabilizer—it prevents cells from releasing histamine in the first place. It works best when taken consistently before and during allergy season.
- Spirulina modulates the immune response that drives allergies. It reduces IgE antibodies (the antibodies that trigger allergic reactions) and shifts immune balance away from the allergy-promoting Th2 pathway.
- Stinging nettle has natural antihistamine properties. It works similarly to some over-the-counter allergy medications, reducing nasal swelling and mucus production.
Expected timeline: Butterbur provides relief within 1-2 weeks. Quercetin works best with 4+ weeks of consistent use before allergy season. Start supplementation 2-4 weeks before expected allergen exposure for preventive benefits.