Time to Spring into Action Against Seasonal Allergies
Spring is traditionally the main season when allergies blossom because of new growth on trees and weeds. People who are allergic to pollens may also be allergic to dust mites, which are microscopic insects that feed on human skin cells. Animal dander and molds, which may lurk indoors in any season, may also be contributing factors. An allergy is the body's inappropriate response to substances that are not normally harmful. Allergic reactions range from mild itching, sneezing or eczema, to severe reactions such as hives, hay fever, wheezing and shortness of breath. An extreme allergic reaction can result in anaphylactic shock, which is a life-threatening situation where a person's airway shuts down and blood pressure drops. The most common symptom of seasonal allergies is allergic rhinitis and can mimic the common cold causing watery eyes and runny nose.
The changes in weather and temperature can impact your immune system causing your resistance to lower and making you susceptible to cold and flu symptoms. Smoking and food allergies can also increase your sensitivity to these seasonal allergens.
The Amazing Five - Vitamin C helps reduce runny nose and fluid drainage. It can also act as a natural antihistamine and soothes nasal passages. 1,000-4,000 mg per day per bowel tolerance and lower the dosage once you start to a loose stool or diarrhea. Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) helps reduce nasal leakage and steady mast cells, which will decrease the histamine release by stimulating the adrenal glands. Therefore aim for 300mg/day of B-complex divided into three 100 mg doses. Licorice root tea is beneficial because it helps to elevate cortisol levels to even out mast cell. Preferably 2-3 cups from deglycyrrhizinated root/powder and is not suggested for people with high blood pressure.
Quercetin is a bioflavonoid shown to diminish mast cell and basophil histamine release. Excellent for hay fever, hives and eczema, 300 mg daily allowing 3 weeks for therapeutic results. Nettle is an old folk medicine to help prevent hay fever one should take 300 mg two to three times per day when symptoms are visible. In addition, Sinuplex helps with symptoms and Andrographis plus helps to boost immune system. Colon cleansers are helpful and when combined with aloe vera juice helps to balance the digestive tract. If you are susceptible to allergies avoid the following foods: bananas, beef products, caffeine, chocolate, citrus fruits, corn, dairy products, eggs, oats, oysters, peanuts, processed and refined foods, salmon, strawberries, tomatoes, wheat and white rice. Also, avoid F, D, and C yellow #5 dyes.
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