Natural remedies for anaphylaxis: what to know

Anaphylaxis is a rapid, severe allergic reaction that can affect breathing, blood pressure, skin and the digestive system. Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, wheezing, widespread hives, faintness or sudden vomiting may occur. Symptoms can worsen quickly, and a tea, essential oil, supplement or food cannot reverse the underlying reaction.

Use the person’s prescribed adrenaline auto-injector without delay, following its instructions, and call emergency services. Lay the person down with legs raised if comfortable; allow sitting only if breathing is difficult, and do not let them stand or walk. If symptoms continue and another prescribed injector is available, follow the emergency plan. Do not give food or drink to someone struggling to breathe, and do not rely on antihistamines as a substitute for adrenaline. Emergency observation is still needed after symptoms improve.

Treat suspected anaphylaxis as an emergency whenever breathing becomes noisy or difficult, the throat or tongue swells, the person feels faint, or several body systems react together. Call emergency services immediately, even if the trigger is uncertain or symptoms start to settle. After recovery, arrange specialist review to identify triggers and create a written action plan. Allergy testing may be considered when clinically suitable.

Ask which symptoms should trigger adrenaline, how to use the auto-injector, whether you need more than one device, how to record suspected triggers and when follow-up testing is appropriate.