Not everyone looks forward to spring – especially when it comes with sneezing and itching.
What is an allergy?
An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances such as pollen, pet dander, grasses, and other environmental triggers or foods. A seasonal allergy is a reaction to a trigger that is typically present only during specific times of the year. For Canadians, seasonal allergies tend to flare during spring (pollen), summer (grass), and fall (weeds). Allergies that are consistent all year round may be reactions to triggers such as pet dander, dust mites, or food.
Signs of seasonal allergies are similar to a common cold, however allergies tend to be associated with the following:
- There is no corresponding fever or muscle aches
- Any mucous is clear and runny
- Sneezing is frequent and often occurs in multiples
- Itching of ears, eyes, nose, and throat is relentless
- Symptoms do not necessarily get worse or better and last longer than a typical cold
An allergic reaction requires exposure to a trigger, which is then recognized by the immune system as “foreign”. The immune system goes into high gear, triggering the release of histamine from immune cells called mast cells. Histamine is part of the inflammatory response and causes the range of symptoms associated with allergies.
Seasonal allergies affect millions of Canadians every year and this number is increasing annually. According to a Consumer Health Report, sales of antihistamine/allergy medications increased by 3% in one year to $222 million in 2013. These medications effectively block the release of histamine and/or work as decongestants but many produce unwanted side effects. Obviously people are suffering and looking for effective, natural ways to reduce the pain of seasonal allergies.
Probiotics
There are many published studies indicating the benefit of probiotics in treating allergy symptoms. They do so by down regulating the inflammatory response and immune markers involved in the allergic process. Probiotics help to quench the overreaction of the Th2 immune response and positively alter the balance of pollen-specific immune proteins. This immune modulation has shown beneficial impact for people suffering from allergic airway diseases including asthma. Your naturopathic doctor can help determine which strain and potency are best suited to address your symptoms.
For more information about probiotics, see one of my previous blog posts: http://drmblake-nd.blogspot.ca/2014/01/let-them-eat-dirt-benefits-of-probiotics.html
Nettles (Urtica dioica)
An herb with a long medicinal history, nettle (aka stinging nettle) has been used effectively for painful muscles, skin conditions, and benign prostatic hyperplasia. For allergy sufferers, stinging nettle has been shown to reduce the amount of histamine produced in response to an allergen. Nettles grow easily in this area and can be used fresh or dried. Many over-the-counter options are of the freeze-dried variety. Any form can be used preventatively prior to allergy season as well as during peak times to reduce symptoms. Nettle is also high in minerals and makes a wonderful, nutritive tea.
Butterbur (Petasites hybridus)
Butterbur is a plant native to northern Asia, Europe, and parts of North America. It has a long history of medicinal benefits but is best known for its use in prevention of migraine headaches and management of allergy symptoms.
Studies done comparing butterbur extract to antihistamine drugs have shown that both treatments are more effective than placebo and produce equal results, making butterbur an excellent alternate for those sensitive to the side effects of antihistamine medications.
Naturally, butterbur contains plant components that may be toxic to the liver. Fortunately, these compounds can be removed from butterbur products to improve benefits and increase safety.
Quercetin
A bioflavonoid that naturally occurs in many foods, including garlic, onions, and apples, has been shown stabilize the mast cells that release histamine and initiate the allergic cascade. Especially when used in conjunction with vitamin c, quercetin supplementation can be extremely helpful in reducing allergy symptoms without any side effects such as drowsiness.
Naturopathic medicine offers a whole person approach to allergies and works to quench the over-response of the immune system, stabilize mast cells that release histamine, and address other underlying imbalances that cause allergic reactions.
For a tailored naturopathic allergy plan, call The Pear Tree to discuss your options with a naturopathic doctor.
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