Natural Allergy Relief for Pets: The Power of Adaptogens & Mushrooms
As pet parents, few things are harder to watch than a dog or cat constantly itching, licking, or struggling with inflamed skin. Allergies—whether environmental, seasonal, or food-related—can wreak havoc on our pets’ comfort and overall health. Unfortunately, many conventional allergy medications like Apoquel, Cytopoint, or long-term steroids simply suppress the immune system without addressing the root cause. In some cases, they may even contribute to long-term immune dysfunction or side effects.
Thankfully, there are natural options that work with the body, not against it. Adaptogens and functional mushrooms offer a holistic approach by supporting the immune system, calming inflammation, and helping the body respond appropriately to allergens.
Why Adaptogens for Pet Allergies?
Unlike pharmaceuticals that target one pathway, adaptogens help regulate multiple systems in the body, promoting balance and resilience under stress—including the stress created by allergies. Adaptogens don’t force the body to behave in a certain way; instead, they gently support the body’s ability to adapt, heal, and maintain homeostasis. This is especially valuable for pets whose immune systems are overreacting to allergens.
Key Adaptogens That Support Pets with Allergies
While there are many adaptogens available, some stand out for their ability to support pets suffering from allergies, skin irritation, respiratory sensitivities, and chronic inflammation:
Full Spectrum Hemp Extract
Hemp extract interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a regulatory system found throughout the body that plays a role in immune balance, inflammation, and skin health. For pets with allergies, hemp extract can help calm the overactive immune responses that trigger itching, redness, and inflammation. Through its effects on CB2 receptors and mast cells, hemp extract supports immune stability and helps regulate histamine release, making it valuable for both seasonal and chronic allergy support.
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Often called the “Mushroom of Immortality,” Reishi is a powerful adaptogen with both immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory properties. In pets experiencing allergies, Reishi helps stabilize immune cells like mast cells, which are often responsible for histamine-driven itching and inflammation. Reishi’s triterpenes and beta-glucans not only calm histamine responses but also support liver detoxification—crucial for pets dealing with ongoing exposure to allergens through food, environment, or medication.
Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris)
Cordyceps helps support healthy respiratory function—an important factor for pets whose allergies impact breathing and airway inflammation. In addition to its respiratory support, Cordyceps has immune-balancing effects that may help reduce hypersensitivity reactions while promoting energy and endurance. Pets who experience seasonal respiratory issues alongside allergies may benefit from its broad adaptogenic actions.
Artist Conk (Ganoderma applanatum)
Known for its immune-modulating properties, Artist Conk supports a balanced immune response and offers anti-inflammatory benefits. By supporting the proper functioning of immune cells, it helps maintain equilibrium for pets whose immune systems are reacting excessively to allergens.
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)
Rich in antioxidants and betulinic acid, Chaga supports cellular health, helps counteract oxidative stress, and contributes to immune balance. Its powerful antioxidant activity can be particularly helpful for calming inflammatory cycles triggered by allergies, while also supporting the skin, gut, and overall immune system.
Ashwagandha
Known as one of the most widely used adaptogenic herbs, Ashwagandha helps regulate the body’s stress response while supporting balanced immune function. Because stress can worsen allergic flare-ups, Ashwagandha’s calming, anti-inflammatory properties can help pets better tolerate environmental or seasonal triggers.
Turmeric
Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, is one of nature’s most powerful natural anti-inflammatories. For pets with allergies, turmeric helps soothe inflammatory skin responses, joint discomfort, and gut irritation commonly associated with chronic allergic conditions. Turmeric also supports liver detoxification, helping the body eliminate allergens and metabolic waste more efficiently.
Frankincense
Boswellic acids, the active compounds in frankincense, help calm inflammatory pathways that often become overactive in allergic pets. Frankincense also supports joint comfort, respiratory function, and may help soothe inflammatory responses in both skin and gut.
A Whole-Body Approach to Allergy Relief
The goal in managing allergies naturally isn’t just symptom control — it’s supporting the body’s ability to regain balance and resilience. Adaptogens and functional mushrooms offer a multi-targeted way to calm immune overreactions, support detoxification pathways, and help pets find lasting comfort without the risks that come with long-term pharmaceutical use.
When used alongside a clean, species-appropriate diet and a toxin-free lifestyle, adaptogens can be powerful allies in helping your pets heal from the inside out — allowing them to thrive even in the face of environmental and seasonal allergens.
For a chart with more food, plants, and fungi that help support pets experiencing allergies, Download Here!
About Angela Ardolino
Angela Ardolino, a certified cannabis and fungi clinician, brings over 20 years of expertise to the field of holistic pet wellness. As a graduate of the inaugural Medical Cannabis for Therapeutic Use program at the University of Vermont School of Medicine, she is a passionate advocate for safe, natural, and ethically-grown whole plant and fungi medicine tailored for pets.
Committed to the highest standards, Angela continues to educate and inspire pet parents through her popular podcast, Your Natural Dog, where she hosts experts to discuss holistic pet care, natural remedies, nutrition, and training. Follow Angela Ardolino on her website, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to stay updated on her mission to educate and empower pet parents everywhere.