Haaaaa-chooo! The nose knows. Spring has arrived. If you're finding yourself sneezing multiple times a minute, with eyes watering, or a chronically scratchy throat, 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, allergies are no small issue.

What is an allergy?

At its core, an allergy is an overreaction of the immune system. From a holistic point of view, the immune system is an extremely complex system, comprised of the white blood system (lymphocytes, granulocytes, macrophages, mast cells), as well as the entire system of mucous membranes. It also is intimately connected to the normally present bacterial colonies in the mucous membranes.

An allergy 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.

Certain coloring agents commonly used in food and drugs, along with many synthetic preservatives, cause non-specific inflammation because they are dangerous and the body needs to eliminate them. The workload of the immune system is reduced when it is exposed to fewer synthetic food additives, such as artificial dyes and preservatives. Herbs that can aide with reducing toxicity include those that support the liver and elimination of these toxins: milk thistle, dandelion root, burdock and artichoke.

Specific nutrients that reduce symptoms

Specific nutrients will reduce inflammation in the body and stabilize 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 inflammatory leukotrienes the body produces.

Antioxidants, as well as many minerals, protect the lungs and stabilize mast cells. These vitamins and minerals are abundant in vegetables and fruits. Magnesium, found in whole foods, prevents smooth muscle tissue from a hyper-tendency to spasm. Increased consumption of vegetables, fruits and whole grains, and decreased consumption of synthetic chemicals can be helpful in reducing asthma and allergy symptoms.

Support for the immune system, offering relief from allergy symptoms:

Stinging Nettles -- A powerful study that included ninety-eight individuals that took part in a double-blind randomized study comparing the effects of a freeze-dried preparation of Urtica dioica (stinging nettles) with placebo on allergic rhinitis showed that the patients that used the Stinging Nettles had greater relief than the control group when it came to allergic nasal symptoms. Over the decades, freeze-dried stinging nettles have been used to help patients suffering from sinus and overall allergy symptoms.

The synergy of blending the powerful therapeutic effects of freeze-dried stinging nettles, quercitin, 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 treatment for allergies 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.

 

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The Contraindications and Potential Drug Interactions information provided on this website is not intended to be all-inclusive. A health care professional should be consulted regarding the use of herbal products. Always keep your Doctor or other healthcare professional informed about the herbal and other dietary supplement products that you are taking.