Herbal & homeopathic remedies for allergies from food, dust, pollen, animal dander etc.

Allergies
HEALTH HERBS & NUTRITION - REMEDIES - ALLERGIES - ALLERGIES

· General Description · Symptoms · Causes · Herbal & Homeopathic Remedies · Helpful Dietary Habits · Dos and Don'ts

Allergies are a result of an abnormal reaction of the body’s immune system when it comes into contact with a particular substance called allergen. Allergens are minute particles of matter, found in the environment or in food, which the body regards as alien and potentially harmful. An allergen does not provoke the same reaction among non-allergic people. Equally, the same allergen may cause entirely different reactions in different people.

Allergens cause over production of histamine which culminates into most of the symptoms of the allergic reaction.

Allergies can strike at any age, but the susceptibility and response of human body to certain allergens changes, particularly in the case of diet related allergies.

· Asthma (wheezing), coughing, difficult breathing

· Rashes, itching

· Running nose, sneezing, chronic rhinitis (constantly blocked nose)

· Conjunctivitis: Watery, sore and red eyes

· Diarrhea

· Some insect stings and nuts may cause swelling of the lips, tongue and throat. This anaphylactic shock is basically
  due to extreme sensitiveness towards a substance and is potentially life-threatening.

· Plants, metals, fabric etc. may cause contact hypersensitivity.

· Respiratory allergies are triggered by pollen (see Hay-Fever), animal hair and house dust.

· Food allergies are caused by numerous types of foods (see table below). They may affect specific parts of the body.
  Sometimes susceptibility to allergies is genetic also.

Common foods that cause Allergies:

Certain herbal and homeopathic remedies have been found to be beneficial in the treatment and prevention of allergies. These remedies are not only much safer to use than the traditional antihistamine drugs but also gentler for the body. Herbs such as Urtica urens and Plantago lanceolata (also known as plantain) contain effective anti-inflammatory and astringent properties and have a long history of treating inflammation, allergies and respiratory complaints.

Quercitin is a highly effective herb that contains antioxidants and helps to boost the immune system and improve circulation while Euphrasia officinalis (Eyebright) maintains eye health and good vision. In addition, homeopathic ingredients such as Arsen alb. (15C) and Nat. mur. (D6) help to control allergy symptoms such as sneezing, wheezing chest, inflammation in the eyes and irritability.

Together in a formula, these herbal + homeopathic remedies can:

• Keep noses, sinuses, chest and eyes clear and healthy

• Maintain the health of the respiratory system

• Maintain skin integrity and health

• Support the immune system

• Maintain natural histamine levels within the normal limits

• Soothe and support the health and functioning of mucous membranes

Similarly, when it comes to the most difficult times of the year - i.e., when you are most prone to allergies - herbs such as Urtica urens, plantain, Allium cepa & Ars. Iod when used in a formula can support normal levels of systemic histamine; maintain clear eyes and noses; promote respiratory health & support and soothe the immune system.