An allergy is a response from the immune system that a foreign substance or allergen has invaded the body. These substances can be a variety from molds, to foods, chemical additives, drugs, animal dander and many other irritants. When a person comes into contact with an allergen, the immune system reacts by creating protective antibodies.
If a person’s body is receptive to an allergen, the immune system responds by creating special molecules called antibodies that trigger an alert to the specific immune cells called “mast cells”. They are a type of white blood cell that reacts when the body has allergic reaction. When contacted with the allergen, the mast cells react by releasing histamine, a protective substance that can cause swelling of the skin, rashes, or inflammation of the airways.
Natural herbal medicine can offer many treatments for reducing the body’s allergic reaction. The safest way to prevent an allergic reaction is to stay away from the allergen itself. This is only possible for some allergies. Food allergies can be preventable but others like pollen may be impossible to avoid.
There are many herbal treatments that will help the immune system and prevent allergic reactions. Treatments can be applied externally to the skin for rashes or itching. Reducing the intake of dairy for the allergy sufferer can help as dairy can create trouble breathing or increases mucus especially if you have asthma.
Drinking Nettle leaf tea can help with allergies, asthma and circulation. The tea enhances the immune system and helps reduce inflammation, runny nose, itchy eyes and sneezing. It works as anti-histamine. Stinging Nettle tea is a flowering plant that is grown all over the world. It is rich in vitamin K, iron, and calcium. You can purchase it loose or in tea bags and it is recommended to drink 2-3 cups a day to receive the benefits.
Cayenne pepper contains an anti-inflammatory called “capsaicin”. It also helps relieve allergies. Just sprinkle generously over your food for a few days and see the results. Homeopathic treatments can adjust the immune system of allergies however these treatments should be done under the guidance of a professional because sometimes these treatments can actually cause flare ups of the symptoms.
Vitamin C is considered to be a natural antihistamine because it stops the release of histamine by the mast cells. Excellent sources of vitamin C are bell peppers, red meat, kale, orange or grape fruit, broccoli cauliflower, papaya and strawberries.
Acupressure has been known to be very helpful in restoring the immune system and relieving allergies. One technique is to apply pressure to the center of the webbing of your hand, between thumb and index finger. Squeeze and maintain pressure for 2 minutes then do the same procedure on the other hand. Do this as soon as you start to have an allergic reaction.
Herbal extracts have been effective as well, by adding to your bath water, or applying to a compress for allergic skin reactions. For eczema you can use oak bark or witch hazel to fight against the oozing or other skin inflammations. Bran or oatmeal baths are very effective and works quickly with burning and itchy rashes.
Chamomile can be applied to a compress and will help with skin swelling. It contains anti-inflammatory agents which sooth the skin. If you are prone to allergies, try on a regular basis a juice fast. Drink nothing but perseverative free herb and vegetable juices for 2-5 days. This helps cleans out waste products and will help stimulate healing.
As always, check with your doctor before trying any new supplements
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