September Newsletter HealthyLife.Net Radio Show Archive

FEATURE ARTICLE

ALLERGIES
by Linda Mackenzie, C.H.T., Ph.D. (c)

The Greek meaning of allergy is "abnormal response." Allergy occurs when normally harmless substances produce an abnormal response in the body. Some of these substances include food, dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, plants, textiles, cosmetics, insect bites, animal fur, feathers, smoke, chemical pollutants, and drugs.

An "allergen", sometimes called an "antigen" is the cause of allergy and symptoms will vary. Some of the symptoms associated with allergy include watery eyes, runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, rash, hives, upset stomach and breathing difficulties.
When the immune system mistakes a normally harmless substance as something harmful to the body an allergic reaction occurs. The immune system detects this allergen or antigen and begins to manufacture an antibody - Immunoglobin E. The antibody then combines with the allergen and causes the release of active compounds, one of which is histamine. This histamine interacts with the blood vessels and mucous membranes which then cause leakage, swelling and congestion in the body.

Typically when someone is first exposed to an allergen no symptoms will occur. The immune system logs the initial contact of the allergen into it's memory and when re-exposure occurs it reacts to produce an allergic reaction. Heredity plays a role in allergy and this is called "atopic". Some examples of atopic allergy are food allergies, asthma, eczema, and hay fever.
If an allergen is identified, avoidance of the cause is the best prevention. For example if you find out that you are allergic to a specific food, don't eat it. Of course some allergens can't be avoided so other steps need to be taken. Medical doctors and pharmacies use three types of medication: antihistamine which blocks the histamine, anti-inflammatory agents such as corticosteroids and decongestants. Ask your pharmacist for the insert from the manufacturer and read about the possible side effects. The reason why should do this is not only should you be aware of what you are putting inside your body, but you will be able to get additional facts that can provide you with an intelligent choice. For example, decongestants can help for the short term, but it has been proven to be counterproductive for long term.

Naturopathic doctors can help with allergies, as well as, homeopathic medicines stimulate the body to heal itself and can be used without side effects.

Allergy Relief Remedies

Mental Attitude
Cause: Rejecting the new.
Cure: Act and say what's in your mind. Take time for you.

Foods & Diet
Avoid: milk, wheat, beef, flavorings, artificial colors flavorings, food preservatives.
Good Foods: rice bran, vinegar, artichokes, garlic, olive oil, rosehips, cherries, papaya,
lemon, squash, cashews, corn, pecans, soybeans, cabbage, and beans.

Vitamins & Supplements
Vitamin C, Vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, bromelain, pycnogenol, bee pollen, NAC, probiotics.

Herbs
Tumeric, quercetin, eyebright, goldenseal, echinacea, marigold, stinging nettle, gingko
biloba, muellin, slippery elm, ginger root, licorice root, sage, oregano,

Aromatherapy
Chamomile, melissa