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Seasonal Allergies By Dr. Siobhan Bleakney (http://www.innersourcehealth.com/Siobhan.aspx )

08-14-2012

For many people, the change in seasons isn't only about watching the beautiful changing leaves or enjoying the cooler temperatures. Instead, it’s more about fluctuations in their immune system as they begin the battle of seasonal allergies or hay fever.

Sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, itchy, watery eyes, coughing and breathing trouble are some of the symptoms that more than 40 million Americans1 will experience this fall. Seasonal allergies are considered a type 1 immune reaction. These reactions happen immediately after being exposed to the allergen and result in the body releasing histamine. This inflammatory response leads to an array of symptoms that can range from life threatening breathing issues and swelling (called anaphylaxis), to the more common symptoms mentioned above. Natural Remedies that Work While Mother Nature may be the cause of allergies, she also may hold the key to prevention and treatment. Natural treatments are proven to be just as effective in preventing and treating allergies as the OTC medications are, and come with fewer if any, negative side effects. Homeopathic remedies are safe and effective for treating allergies. The specific remedy is chosen by the specific symptoms you may be experience. Allium cepa is used for burning nasal discharge, bland tears and a nose “running like a faucet”. Euphrasia helps with burning tears and bland nasal

discharge. Apis is effective for allergies associated with hives. Herbal supplementation can have a direct effect by lowering inflammation. Frankincense, Turmeric, Eyebright and Chamomile are inflammation-modulating herbs that can be effective in

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decreasing the histamine-induced inflammation. Stinging nettle leaf (pictured above) can be used as a tea and is known for its anti-allergic effects. Quercetin is a natural compound the belongs to the flavonoid family of healthy plant molecules, and is especially concentrated in the skins of fruit. Quercetin stabilizes mast cells, the cells responsible for histamine release, thereby inhibiting their degranulation (aka: the ability to release histamine) which causes the allergy symptoms we experience. Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant and natural anti-inflammatory. Foods high in quercetin are apples, red or black grapes, blueberries, blackberries, cherries, onions, and green tea. Other naturally helpful tips include running an air purifier, using a nasal rinse or neti pot, ingesting local honey and acupuncture. Not all supplements or remedies will work for everyone as we are all unique and our medicine should be as well – this is why it is helpful to work with naturopathic doctor, or other knowledgeable practitioner. In addition to the above, it is very helpful to also make sure you are getting plenty of sleep, eating a healthful diet, and avoiding foods that may contribute to inflammation in your body. Overall, the natural world has many choices to help with seasonal allergies and in most cases, can help you avoid medications, and make your body healthier in the process.

* Dr. Siobhan Bleakney is a naturopathic doctor practicing at Inner Source Health in Huntington, Long Island. You can schedule an appointment with her by calling 631.421.1848 or emailing at info@innersourcehealth.com

Note from Inner Source editorial: also, please check out our blog discussion about the wonderful results of butterbur for seasonal allergy (which is shown to be as good as the drugs, but with less side effects): http://www.innersourcehealth.com/news_blog.aspx?EntryID=417 Reference 1. Asthma and Allergy Foundation, www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=9&sub=30