Spring has sprung! The long awaited change of winter into spring is among us bringing the season of rebirth filled with flowers, greenery, and warmer weather. For many folks, the changing of the season brings more than just sunshine—it signals the onset of seasonal allergies.
Hay fever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, can appear as early as February and last throughout the summer or throughout the year. Physiologically, exposure to an allergen, such as pollen, elicits a massive release of IgE antibodies by white blood cells signaling mast cells. These cells are mostly located in the lungs and upper respiratory tract, the lining of the stomach, and the skin. When mast cells are stimulated, they release chemicals including histamine and leukotrienes which produce the allergy symptoms.
While many over-the-counter remedies promise symptomatic relief, naturopathic doctors believe that addressing the causes of allergies, treating the whole person, and focusing on balancing the immune system leads to substantial long-term health benefits.
Avoiding the allergen - The first step in the natural approach to allergies is to reduce contact with the allergen. Airborne allergens, such as pollen, dander, and dust mites are often too difficult to avoid, but measures can be taken to reduce exposure. For example, reducing surfaces where allergens collect like carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, or encasing your mattress in allergen-proof plastic. Installing an air purifier in your home is another approach to reducing your exposure
Quercetin - This supplement is believed to work by stabilizing cell membranes, reducing the release of histamine, so the cells are less reactive to allergens. Adding the supplemental enzyme bromelain increases the amount of quercetin absorbed in the digestive tract.
Butterbur - Butterbur (Petasites hybridus) contains the active ingredient petasin, which exhibits antileukotriene and antihistamine activity. Research has shown butterbur to be as effective as some conventional treatments without the side effects.
Nettle Leaf - Nettle leaf has a long history of traditional use for allergies. An initial scientific study with an extract of the herb nettle leaf (Urtica dioica) was made during the peak season for allergic rhinitis. The extract gave a slight reduction in symptoms of hayfever within just 7 days.
Vitamin C – By stabilizing mast cell membranes, Vitamin C prevents the secretion of histamine and therefore decreases allergies. Studies have shown that doses of 2 grams daily increase the ability of white blood cells to respond to an infection and lower blood histamine levels if taken over time.
Food Intolerance - Some researchers suggest that people who react to pollens may also have a hypersensitivity to certain foods. For example, people allergic to grass pollens also reacted to tomatoes, peanuts, wheat, carrot, peach, eggs, and pork. Elimination diets have been successful at finding out which foods aggravate symptoms of allergic rhinitis in an individual. These diets involve the removal of suspected foods for at least two weeks followed by systematic re-introduction of the foods in order to identify what specifically causes the aggravation.
Nasal Lavage – This classic hydrotherapy technique is used in cases of chronic infections and/or irritations in the nose and sinuses. The goal is to reduce or eliminate the recurrent irritant so that the body can be given a chance to heal itself. For acute problems, perform the nasal lavage up to four times per day until resolved. For chronic problems, use one or more times daily, continuing for several months. If your condition continues to worsen after a week of treatment, see your doctor.
Allergies affect more than twenty percent of the US population. Natural therapies provide an alternative to medications that can sometimes have unpleasant side effects. Seek out a naturopathic physician today to develop an individualized plan that works for you.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Since 2005, Dr Fey has helped women, men, and children find real solutions to their health concerns. She truly believes that giving the proper care and nutrients your body has an amazing ability to heal. She is committed to finding the root cause of illness by utilizing a whole body approach not just focusing solely on presenting symptoms. With her scientific background, Dr Fey uses science based natural approaches to treating disease.
Dr. Amanda Fey is the owner and practicing Naturopathic Doctor at Complementary Medicine & Healing Arts, the Southern Tiers Center for Natural Healthcare located in the Binghamton NY area. The office website is www.naturallywell.us. Dr. Fey is currently offering telemedicine for patients all across the US. To contact the office, call 607-729-0591 or email cmhahealth@gmail.com.