Allergies occur when one’s immune system overreacts to a foreign substance such as pollen or mold. This triggers a release of histamines.
Traditional medicine treats allergies with drugs such as antihistamines. There are numerous ways of modulating the immune system and inflammation caused by allergies.
Herbs:
Herbs such as Feverfew and Stinging Nettle have been used by traditional Greek and European herbalists for many conditions including allergies and asthma. They contain flavanoid-like compounds and phenolic acids which help reduce inflammation and help tone down one’s over-reaction to irritants.
Supplements:
Activated Quercetin is a bioflavanoid found in many fruits and vegetables. When “activated” (combined with Vitamin C and Bromelain) it can reduce inflammation and help with allergies and asthma.
Curcumin, Boswellia and Black Seed Oil
These can be taken individually or found together in supplement form. All are anti-inflammatory. Curcumin has COX-2 (an enzyme linked to inflammation down regulating effects.) Boswellia & Black Seed Oil can inhibit 5-LOX (an inflammatory marker) which make them valuable for treating asthma and allergies.
*Other supplements to consider are colloidal silver, MSM and whole leaf Aloe concentrate.
Local Raw Honey or Bee Pollen:
These can help modulate your immune response to pollen. Be careful to start very slowly and speak with a Health Care practitioner first if your allergies are severe.
Homeopathy:
Rather than traditional medicine, Homeopathic Remedies work as “Like Cures Like”. Working with the body rather than against it. There are no side effects. Consider remedies such as Histimanum, Hydrastis Canadensis or Nat. Mur. There are also combined remedies from Boiron.
Medicinal Mushrooms:
Cordyceps mushroom is known to be oxygenating by dilating the bronchials. Reishi is an adaptogenic mushroom. By balancing immune response to things such as pollen, mold, dander, etc- it may help with allergies. Chaga Mushroom is beneficial to the epithelial cells found in the lining of the lungs.
All three mushrooms are found in Host Defense “Breathe”.
Please visit us at the Apothecary Desk!
Information in this newsletter is is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. The information is intended for general consumer understanding and entertainment only. The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice.
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