Allergies
An allergy is created when the body’s immune system reacts improperly to a normally harmless substance. The immune system defends the body from infections. It identifies foreign substances and organizes the white blood cells to fight against the foreign matter. When the immune system wrongly identifies a harmless substance it causes the white blood cells to attach, damaging the body more than the invader. This results in the allergic response.
Some typical allergies include nasal congestion, coughing, itching, headaches, fatigue, hives, and rashes. Any substance (aka allergen) can cause an allergic reaction, but some common allergens include pollen, dust, nickel, cosmetics, animal hair, penicillin, aspirin, benzoic acid, sulfur dioxide, and some chemicals found in soap and cleaning supplies.
Some very important nutrients that will help with allergies include the following:
- Acidophilus – immune enhancer, improves digestion
- Calcium & Magnesium – reduces stress, adds balance
- Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) – contains anti-allergic properties
- Quercetin – increases immunity, decreases reactions to some foods, pollens, and allergens
- Vitamin B complex – needed for proper digestion and nerve function
- Vitamin C – protects body from allergens, decreases inflammatory response
Some herbs that may be helpful with allergies include the following:
- Boswellia - relieves discomfort, speeds healing, relieves dryness
- Eucalyptus and/or Thyme leaves – antiseptic properties, painkiller, promote healing
- Eyebright tea – minimizes stinging and pain
- Goldenseal root – helps tissue repair
- Nettle – reduces inflammation in the sinuses and an antioxidant, aids in allergy attach prevention
Some recommendations for avoiding and helping with allergies include the following:
- Avoid the following foods until you find your allergy: bananas, beef products, caffeine, chocolate, citrus fruits, corn, dairy products, eggs, oats, oysters, peanuts, salmon, strawberries, tomatoes, wheat, and white rice
- Avoid dairy products, sugar, wheat, and food additives
- Keep rooms free from dust, shut your windows, and use a dehumidifier
- Avoid being outdoors during 5:00am and 10:00am which is when there is the highest pollen counts in the late summer
- Do not smoke, and avoid secondhand smoke
- Avoid taking aspirin within three hours of eating