Natural Relief From Allergies

ProHealthNetwork.com

03-15-2004 By Judy Tidwell

Allergies are the result of an imbalance in the immune system. There are enzymes, fatty acids, herbs, minerals, and vitamins available that can play an important role in maintaining good immune system health, and can sometimes relieve allergic reactions.

Enzymes

Co-enzyme Q10 stimulates the immune system function and is a powerful antioxidant. It moves energy throughout the body, increasing the efficiency of cellular metabolism and is also beneficial for allergies, asthma, and a lowered immunity. A natural substance, Co-enzyme Q10 is found in all healthy tissues in the body, and not found in diseased or infected ones.

Fatty Acids

Essential fatty acids are important to the immune system because they reduce inflammation associated with allergic response by aiding in the production of prostaglandins that counter inflammation.

Herbs

Echinacea stimulates the immune system and may also protect against infection and stimulate tissue repair and healing.
Commonly referred to by its Chinese name, ma huang, Ephedra has both an upside and a downside. It constricts the blood vessels which makes it a useful nasal decongestant, but it also raises blood pressure and increases heart rate.

Garlic has antibacterial properties that are beneficial in healing a chronic runny nose.

Goldenseal, goldenrod, and stinging nettle have been used for anti-viral and anti-inflammatory response amd help remove excess mucus. Nettle can be very helpful for drying out the sinuses.

An herbal extract derived from the bark of the white oak tree, quercus alba, Quercetin is a very safe and effective treatment for all kinds of sinus reactions, including allergies, asthma, and hay fever. It stabilizes the membranes of the cells that release histamine which is what triggers allergic reactions.

Minerals

Calcium and magnesium are important nutrients for the allergy sufferer. They help to relax an overreactive nervous system. This mineral helps people with allergies to help with the stress caused to the body by allergic reaction.

When combined with Vitamin E, Selenium is an excellent anti-oxidant, which will in turn protect the body from free radicals. Selenium has a targeted role in allergic activity and is important for its help in utilizing vitamin E, another important immune system nutrient.

Sulfur aids in the treatment of allergies, both environmental allergies (house dust, animal hair, etc.) and with food and drug allergies. People who are allergic to certain foods and who have allergic reactions to medications (non-steroidal anti-arthritic medications and antibiotics) show either a decreased reaction or a complete tolerance to the particular foods or medications when taking sulfur.

Zinc is an anti-oxidant and boosts immunity. It helps the body to maintain healthy cell function. It helps the body to build new immune system cells to help fend off viral infections and heal cuts and wounds. It's important for the production of collagen. It also combines with vitamin A to maintain healthy eye function.

Vitamins

Zinc and Vitamin A are key to immune system health. They play a role in the production of IgA, an antibody that coats allergens in the intestinal tract, preventing their absorption in the blood supply and forcing their elimination from the body.

Beta-carotene is used by the body to make vitamin A. It also heals and soothes irritated mucus membranes.

One of the B vitamins, Pantothenic acid plays an important role in the proper functioning of the adrenal glands and helps your body produce natural cortisone that counteracts allergens that can reduce allergic symptoms. Improving how the adrenal glands work reduces allergic reactivity.

Vitamin C's natural antihistamine properties make it a classic allergy treatment. A daily dose of 1000 to 4000 milligrams should help reduce the severity of sinus stuffiness and runny nose.

A very powerful antioxidant Vitamin E protects the body from free radicals. It alleviates respiratory problems and boosts your immune system's ability to fight off infectious diseases.

Source: About.com

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