Fighting Allergens Naturally: A Holistic and Natural Approach

Eyes feeling itchy? Watery? Throat kind of scratchy? Nose running constantly? Sneezing every few minutes? If so, you're not alone. According to the Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, Allergic rhinitis affects 20% of adults and 40% of children. Allergic disease is the fifth leading chronic disease among people of all ages, and the third most chronic condition among children. A recent nation-wide survey discovered that more than half (54.6%) of all U.S. citizens test positive to one or more allergens (AAAI). Allergic rhinitis and asthma are the two leading causes of absenteeism due to chronic illness, resulting in an average of four days of work missed per year per affected employee. 82% of allergy sufferers report "not being themselves" or "just wanting to be alone" (McMenamin, The Cost of Hay Fever). Daily lives are impacted; productivity suffers. In short, allergic reactions are no small issue.

What is an allergic reaction?

At its core, an allergy is an overreaction of the immune system. The allergen, whether it's pollen, dander or a food, reacts with the immune system, causing the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause inflammation. It is these chemicals that cause the symptoms of allergies. If the allergen is in the air, it will most likely cause symptoms of inflammation in the nose, eyes and lungs. If the allergen is a food, the reaction often occurs in the mouth, throat or digestive system.

From a holistic point of view, immune system function may also be assisted by restoring the health of the mucous membranes. Allergens enter the body via the mucous membranes lining the respiratory tract or the digestive tract; they are literally the first line of defense. Naturopathic physicians recognize the role of these tissues in allergic individuals and heal the entire body rather than just mask the symptoms.

An allergic reaction is often not just an overreaction to an allergen (trigger substance); sensitivity to an allergen is, many times, merely the very tip of the proverbial iceberg. Only an organism with a disturbed internal milieu reacts allergically. The internal milieu disturbance is usually not noticed, since it is chronic and tends to build up gradually over time. The solution, then, is to address not just the symptoms of allergies, but the immune system as a whole. This can be accomplished in a variety of ways.

Toxins and the immune system

Reducing the toxic load in the body calms the immune system. A calmed immune system produces fewer antibodies. Reducing toxins decreases inflammation in the intestines, which helps the body and the immune system react less vigorously to potential allergens. There are many detoxifying herbs which support the liver and elimination of toxins: Milk Thistle, Dandelion Root, Burdock and Artichoke.

Nutritional Support

Specific nutrients will restore a healthy inflammation response in the body and stabilize allergen-reacting mast cells so they are slower to release histamines.

• Omega-3 fatty acids, found in cold water fish, help to improve respiratory function by reducing the amount of inflammation-causing messengers that the body produces.
• Antioxidants, as well as many vitamins and minerals found in vegetables and fruit, protect the lungs and stabilize mast cells.
• Magnesium, found in whole foods, helps by relaxing and opening the windpipe and lungs. It also reduces histamine release and inflammation of the airways and lungs by stabilizing key cells of the immune system.
• Increased consumption of vegetables, fruits and whole grains, and decreased consumption of synthetic chemicals can be helpful in reducing asthma and allergy symptoms.

Natural Ways to Manage Allergy Symptoms

• Keep an Eye on the Weather: Low humidity or high winds result in more airborne pollen. Try to stay indoors when pollen counts are high, or take some natural antihistamine precautions before heading outside, especially in the morning when airborne pollen is often the worst.
• Keep Allergens Away: Pollen can accumulate on your clothes, hair, and skin and be brought into your home. Showering before bed and changing your clothes when you get home for the day can help reduce the chances of pollen sticking around and getting comfortable, mixing in with your household dust. Keeping windows closed and/or the air conditioner on can also help keep pollen out or filter what's already there.
• Relieve Irritated Eyes: Histamines released during an allergy attack cause blood vessels to dilate, making eyes watery and swollen. Cold compresses and eye creams can offer quick relief.

Herbs Supporting the Immune System and Offer Relief During Allergen Exposure

Stinging Nettles

Nettles (Urtica dioica) have a long history of use during allergen exposure. A tea made from the leaves has been traditionally used as a tonic, but the herb is also available freeze-dried, in capsules.

Quercetin

Quercetin, a flavonoid, is widely used during allergen exposure. Preliminary research suggests that Quercetin inhibits the production of histamines in the body. Studies show that the efficacy of Quercetin is boosted when combined with Vitamin C, which also modulates histamine levels.

NAC and Vitamin C

As reported in a review of the medical literature in Alternative Medical Review, Nettles and Quercetin along with N-acetylcysteine, and Vitamin C are safe, natural nutrients that may be used alone, or in conjunction with conventional methods. N-acetylcysteine is a natural amino acid derivative, which has the ability to break down mucous. N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is so effective in breaking up and helping alleviate excess mucous that it has been used in conventional medicine. Other benefits of using NAC include its ability to help sustain the natural glutathione production within the body, and its potent protection as an antioxidant for the respiratory tract. In turn, Vitamin C also serves to help the body in controlling the adverse effects of histamine while supporting enhanced immune function and providing antioxidant protection.

Can We Help?

Natural Antihistamines and Other Nutrients Work Together Synergistically

The synergy of blending the powerful therapeutic effects of freeze-dried stinging Nettles, Quercetin, NAC and Vitamin C provides effective overall support so that the body can better withstand and fend off the allergic symptoms associated with the arrival of spring and summer. The best natural support for the body during allergen exposure incorporates both lifestyle modification, diet changes, and supplements. Fueling and nourishing the body's natural defenses is essential when combating allergies and enjoying the beauty that comes with the arrival of spring and summer.

With a little bit of preparation, detoxifying, and nourishing the body with nutrients which aid the allergic response, allergen reactions can be effectively, and naturally, managed. Nettles, Quercetin, NAC and Vitamin C just might be the tools that create an effective allergen-fighting arsenal for you this season.

More Information:

• Organic Nettle (Freeze-dried) Vegetarian Capsules
• Nettle (Freeze-dried) and Quercetin Vegetarian Capsules
• Aller-Aid with Quercetin Vegetarian Capsules

*Statements herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and are not intended to treat or diagnose any disease or health condition. It is also recommended that patients check with their doctors before taking herbs, to ensure that there are no contraindications with prescription medications.