The present invention relates generally to a composition for the treatment or prophylaxis of allergic and inflammatory reactions such as but not limited to Type I hypersensitivity reactions in mammals. More particularly, the present invention is directed to compositions comprising herbs or extracts of herbs or botanical or horticultural equivalents of the herbs or chemical or functional equivalents of the herbal extracts useful in the treatment or prophylaxis of allergic and inflammatory reactions such as but not limited to respiratory disorders. The present invention further contemplates a method of treating allergic and inflammatory reactions in mammals and in particular Type I hypersensitivity disorders and even more particularly respiratory disorders by the administration of a herbal composition or its chemical or functional equivalent.