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| | | From: Rene (Original Message) | Sent: 10/11/2006 11:53 PM |
Drug-Free Ways to Treat Fall Allergies Many people associate fall allergies with piles of wet leaves. Truth is, the barrage of runny, stuffy and itchy noses and eyes, sneezing and wheezing that make millions of Americans miserable each fall begins at the end of summer when the ragweed blooms. Ragweed pollen is by far the most common autumnal culprit, although mold spores that grow in piles of wet leaves also prove troublesome for many. When plant growth is "supersized" by extra wet and rainy summers, the fall discomforts that follow are even worse. While many people turn to the array of conventional treatments of prescription or over-the-counter antihistamines, there are a growing number of allergy sufferers who would prefer to avoid the use of pharmaceutical drugs. For tips on how to cope with fall allergies pharmaceutical free, I consulted Robert S. Ivker, DO, past president of the American Holistic Medical Association and author of Sinus Survival: The Holistic Medical Treatment for Allergies, Colds and Sinusitis (Tarcher/Putnam). He shared a wealth of strategies for beating nasty allergy symptoms... SUPPLEMENTS AND OTHER HERBAL REMEDIES For those who want to avoid the uncomfortable side effects of antihistamines, Dr. Ivker recommends a wide variety of supplements that act as "natural antihistamines." Work with your doctor or someone properly trained in natural treatments to find the combination that works best for you. According to Dr. Ivker, those that are most highly effective are... Euphorbium nasal spray. According to Dr. Ivker, this homeopathic remedy may help reduce sinus pressure and allergy related headaches while it improves breathing as part of a natural treatment plan. It is available at most health food stores. Vitamin C. Take as ester C or the ascorbate form at high levels (3,000 to 6,000 mg/day) to help reduce inflammation caused by allergies. Grape seed extract. This herb, with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties -- should be taken in dosages of 100 mg to 300 mg daily, though sometimes more may be used depending on the individual. It is best taken first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Stinging nettle. An average dose consists of 300 mg of the freeze-dried herb in capsule form three times daily. Quercetin. This bioflavonoid, which is usually found in red wine and onions, should ideally be started before the allergy season begins and continued throughout the season. For optimal absorption, take it with the digestive enzyme bromelain and on an empty stomach. The total daily dosage of quercetin is 1,000 to 2,000 mg divided into three to six doses. Homeopathic remedies. There are several homeopathic "allergy" remedies in tablet form that can be taken in conjunction with some or all of the above. These are also best taken on an empty stomach several times a day. Nazanol and Sinupret. These products are combinations of Chinese herbs that are highly effective in reducing inflammation of the mucous membranes, which lessens hypersensitivity and decreases allergy symptoms, explains Dr. Ivker. Both are available through health-care practitioners and should be used under their supervision. Caution: Because these therapeutic doses often exceed standard recommendations, it is best to consult your health-care practitioner before taking them. PRACTICE GOOD NASAL HYGIENE Good nasal hygiene can also help reduce allergy symptoms by removing the pollen and reducing inflammation and hypersensitivity of the mucous membrane. Dr. Ivker recommends the following daily practices... Saline spray. Saline spray -- preferably one containing aloe vera - can be used frequently throughout the day, especially in the early morning when the pollen counts are highest. Pollen particles rise during the heat of the day and allergy symptoms are generally not quite as severe. Steam inhalation. Steam acts as an effective decongestant and is best delivered with a device called a steam inhaler that can be found in most pharmacies. Adding a medicinal eucalyptus oil to the steam helps to reduce inflammation. Practice three or four times daily, preferably followed by nasal irrigation. Nasal irrigation. There are a wide variety of irrigation methods -- Neti Pot, SinuCleanse and perhaps the most effective is the HydroPulse Nasal Irrigator. Irrigation is best after steaming, three to four times daily. ADJUST YOUR DIET A nutritious, hypoallergenic diet can be quite helpful in dealing with allergies of all kinds. Simply avoid the foods that you know or suspect you are sensitive to, along with foods that increase mucus and inflammation and reduce immune function. Dr. Ivker recommends... - Reduce or eliminate milk and dairy products, which can often increase mucus drainage.
- Avoid sugar, which multiple studies have shown can weaken immunity.
- Eat a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, organic non-gluten whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, millet, amaranth), beans, legumes, nuts and seeds. Choose nondairy sources of protein such as fish and organic chicken or turkey.
- Drink plenty of bottled or filtered water. Increased water intake helps hydrate the mucous membranes and thin the mucous, making it easier to drain, explains Dr. Ivker. The average daily recommended amount for adults is a half-ounce per pound of body weight.
MORE LIFESTYLE CONSIDERATIONS If you could only do one thing to control your allergies, it would be to avoid their triggers. To that end, Dr. Ivker advises measures such as... o Stay indoors on high pollen count days (which your local TV or radio station will warn you about), with the windows closed and the air conditioner on. Dr. Ivker notes that it is especially important to avoid outdoor exercise on these days, particularly in the early morning hours when pollen counts are highest. o Use an air conditioner rather than window fans to cool your home. o Invest in a negative-ion generator for the bedroom. Choose one that does not emit ozone. These devices are highly effective in removing pollen from the air, notes Dr. Ivker. o Get seven to nine hours of sleep nightly. This will help keep your immune system fully charged. o If you must mow the lawn or rake leaves, wear a mask. Better yet, get someone else to take care of these chores. o Regularly clean moldy surfaces (e.g., the AC, humidifier and dehumidifier). o Shower and wash your hair when you come in from outdoor activities. o Wash clothing and bedding regularly in hot water. o Be a good housekeeper and keep your home as clean as possible. All in all, when it comes to fall allergies, your best offense is usually a good defense. The best way to beat runny noses and itchy eyes is to maintain a balanced immune system with a few key supplements... eat a healthy, hypoallergenic diet... close the windows, etc. Using these simple strategies, chances are you'll breathe more easily this fall. Be well, Carole Jackson, Bottom Line's Daily Health News September 25, 2006, dhn.bottomlinesecrets.com Sources: Drug-Free Ways to Treat Fall Allergies Robert S. Ivker, DO, former assistant clinical professor, department of family medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, past president of the American Holistic Medical Association (AHMA), co-founder and past president of the American Board of Holistic Medicine (ABHM), and author of Sinus Survival: The Holistic Medical Treatment for Allergies, Colds and Sinusitis (Tarcher/Putnam). Dr. Ivker currently maintains a holistic medical practice in Denver. For more helpful tips on how to cope with allergies, visit Dr. Ivker's website at www .sinussurvival.com. |
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Reply
| | | From: Rene | Sent: 10/12/2006 5:59 AM |
Seasonal Allergies:
A Natural Approach to Treating Seasonal Allergies
By Dr. Ben Kim DrBenKim.com
If you suffer with seasonal allergies, you are well aware of how a sudden onset of scratchy and watery eyes, violent sneezing, and a constant runny nose can hamper your activities of daily living. Sometimes called hay fever or allergic rhinitis, seasonal allergies affect tens of millions of people throughout North America every year. What causes seasonal allergies? When an outdoor or indoor allergen comes into contact with your body, your immune system may trigger the production of an antibody called immunoglobin E, also called IgE. If this happens, the next time that you are exposed to that allergen, IgE antibodies in your body release a chemical called histamine, which sets off a series of chemical reactions that can result in any of the following eliminative reactions: Sneezing
Swelling of the mucous membranes in your sinuses, nose, and eyes
A runny nose
Watery eyes
All of these eliminative reactions are in place to preserve your health. You want these mechanisms to be sharp and fully functional all of the time, ready to react to substances that are harmful to your cells. What you don't want is for these eliminative mechanisms to swing into high gear in response to substances that don't pose a real physiological threat to your cells.
Toxins that are produced by mold - also called mycotoxins - are examples of substances that you want to react to by sneezing and having watery eyes and a runny nose. Regular exposure to mycotoxins can contribute to the development of a wide variety of health challenges, including cancer, nervous system dysfunction, immune system dysfunction, diarrhea, and even rapid death. Pollens from various types of grasses, weeds, and trees are examples of substances that don't pose the same physiological threats to your cells that some mycotoxins do; there is no real need for your body to activate a histamine-mediated response when exposed to pollens. Beyond different types of pollen, there are many other common allergens that are not directly harmful to your cells, and yet, if you suffer with seasonal allergies, your body may react to these allergens by producing the eliminative reactions listed above. Why is this? Why does your body use up energy and sometimes exhaust itself in responding to allergens that are not directly harmful to your cells? Conventional medicine and science do not have an answer for this question. All we know for sure is that allergens induce an IgE and histamine-mediated response. We don't know with absolute certainty why only a small percentage of the human population suffers with seasonal allergies. My personal and clinical experiences have led me to believe that seasonal allergies come about because of a hypersensitive nervous system and a dysfunctional immune system. All sub-optimal lifestyle factors - poor stress management, lack of rest, poor food choices, and regular exposure to toxins - can gradually create both a hypersensitive nervous system and a dysfunctional immune system in people who are genetically susceptible to developing these health challenges. What follows are dietary and lifestyle recommendations that I have used to help many people successfully overcome seasonal allergies. Apply deep massage to the following acupressure points for a few minutes, two times a day:
Spleen 10 (SP-10): located in a tender region of the inner side of the thigh, approximately three finger widths above the upper and inner border/corner of the knee cap.
For Clinicians: this point corresponds with the anterior cutaneous branches of the femoral nerve, the muscular branch of the femoral nerve, a portion of the great saphenous vein, the muscular branch of the femoral artery and companion vein, and the articular branch of the descending genicular artery.
Spleen 6 (SP-6): located approximately three finger widths above the inner ankle bone, in a tender region of the lower calf muscle.
For Clinicians: this point is found in between the medial margin of the tibia and the soleus muscle. As you go deeper, this point corresponds with the flexor digitorum longus and flexor hallucis longus muscles. This point also corresponds with a cutaneous branch of the saphenous nerve, motor branches of the tibial nerve, and the deeper trunk of the tibial nerve. A superficial branch of the great saphenous vein, the posterior tibial artery, and a companion vein to the posterior tibial artery are also in this region.
Large Intestine 4 (LI-4): located in the soft, fleshy web that sits between your thumb and forefinger.
For Clinicians: this point corresponds with a muscular branch of the median nerve, the deep branch of the ulnar nerve, proper palmer digitial nerves from the first common palmar digital nerve, and the superficial branch of the radial nerve. Tributary branches of the cephalic vein, the radial artery, and the first dorsal metacarpal artery and companion veins can also be found in this region.
Liver 3 (LR-3): located in the soft flesh that sits between your big and 2nd toes, the equivalent of LI-4 on your foot.
For Clinicians: this point corresponds with the medial dorsal cutaneous nerve, the medial branch of the deep peroneal nerve, and a muscular branch from the deep branch of the lateral plantar nerve. The dorsal venous network of the foot , the first dorsal metatarsal artery, and a companion vein are also found in this region. Some Notes Regarding Acupressure: in general, you should feel around for a tender spot in each of the regions described above. You should apply enough pressure to feel a mild, dull, achy pain. If you have varicose veins, do not massage any of your muscle groups without first consulting with your family doctor. It is best to massage each point on both sides of your body. If you are not sure about the location of each of the points listed above, I highly recommend that you take a look at the following book, the best of its kind: Acupressure's Potent Points: a Guide to Self-Care for Common Ailments. Avoid all sources of MSG and artificial sweeteners.
Take a high quality probiotic on a daily basis.
Consider doing a juice fast to help remove stored toxins from your tissues, particularly from the insulating sheath that surrounds your nervous system.
Ensure adequate vitamin D status. Vitamin D is essential for optimal nervous system and immune system health.
Following the recommendations listed above as a means to addressing seasonal allergies requires a lot more effort than taking an over-the-counter drug like Claritin. Please keep in mind that in addition to helping you overcome seasonal allergies, following these recommendations can also help you improve your overall health without a number of "side" effects like dizziness and drowsiness.
http:// chetday.com/seasonalallergies.htm |
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Reply
| | | From: Rene | Sent: 10/9/2007 6:01 PM |
Treat Seasonal Allergies Naturally October 9, 2007:- Actifed, Benadryl, Claritin... you could make an alphabet book with the names of allergy medications drugstores sell to soothe seasonal symptoms. But all have side effects that can be as annoying as the sniffles and sneezes they treat. So, with the autumn allergy season upon us, I thought it might be helpful to review some natural therapies for treating allergy symptoms. As regular readers have heard before, using "natural" treatments for anything -- allergies included -- doesn't make this a do-it-yourself solution. Natural doesn't automatically mean safe and dosages must be adjusted to your individual needs by your own naturopathic physician. That said, for broad advice on this topic I called Jamison Starbuck, ND. She practices natural and holistic medicine in Missoula, Montana, is a past president of The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, and had lots of helpful, interesting suggestions you can discuss with your own doctor. SOME TREATMENTS THAT HELP Dr. Starbuck recommends assorted supplements to quell her patients' symptoms: Quercetin. Abundant in apples, citrus fruits, raspberries, black and green tea, grapes and red wine, this bioflavonoid has the capacity to strengthen the capillaries in the upper respiratory tract to make them less reactive to the airborne particles, including pollens or spores from grasses, weeds, trees and ragweed that trigger many allergic symptoms. Its anti-inflammatory capacity is especially helpful, Dr. Starbuck told me, because some people prone to allergies simply have highly reactive mucus membranes, meaning they have a low tolerance for irritation. "Quercetin supports the immune system at the same time it helps to decrease inflammation," she said. "Patients have told me that using quercetin alone has made a huge difference in their symptoms and suffering." This super bioflavonoid is inexpensive and widely available in capsule form at health food stores. Remember that quercetin may interact with certain drugs, so check first with your prescriber. Vitamin C. The anti-inflammatory, free-radical-quenching capacity of vitamin C decreases the release of histamines, which our bodies generate to manage allergic insults like pollen. Dr. Starbuck cautions that at higher dosages of this super-power vitamin, some people may notice a loosening of the bowels -- if you're among them, ask your doctor to cut you back to a lower dose. GARDEN VARIETY TREATMENTS Stinging nettle. This flowering plant is gaining popularity in its freeze-dried form as being moderately effective in soothing allergy symptoms. There's not much research supporting this -- a 1990s study from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland indicated it might have a mild helpful effect -- but stinging nettle has a long history in traditional medicine as treatment for allergies, among other conditions. The fact that it also has an anti-inflammatory effect leads many practitioners to prescribe stinging nettle as part of a total natural treatment for allergies. It's most effective if taken at the first sign of symptoms, said Dr. Starbuck, who has used it for years and finds it helps her patients. If you are taking blood thinners like coumadin or if you have diabetes, stinging nettle should be used very carefully. A small percentage of people are allergic, so if stinging nettle makes you feel worse, talk to your doctor. You can be tested for a nettle allergy. Pregnant women should avoid it. Eyebright (Euphrasia). This herb has been used as a compress to treat eye infections and irritation for hundreds of years and Dr. Starbuck points out that it's also quite effective when taken orally in a tincture for treatment of inflammation of nasal mucus membranes and sinuses. AND NOW TO THE KITCHEN Food allergies. Though seasonal allergies and food allergies seem to be distinctly different entities, Dr. Starbuck explains that it is important to realize that they're not unrelated. "Seasonal allergies are definitely aggravated by food allergies and sensitivities," she told me. Allergy sufferers should be aware that problem foods can amplify seasonal allergies so you should try eliminating the usual offenders, at least temporarily. "Dairy, wheat, corn and soy are all mucus-producing foods," she told me. They can make seasonal allergies like hay fever worse -- avoiding them can make a big difference. Also avoid foods that contain mold (such as blue cheese) since these, too, can trigger allergy symptoms. Chamomile tea. This sleepy-time favorite soothes mucus-membrane activity, which will help allergy victims feel more comfortable. Note: Chamomile tea can cause allergic reactions in those allergic to ragweed. Decongestant snack. Finally, Dr. Starbuck offered her own recipe for a homemade decongestant snack. Mix water and organic honey together (in a 50-50 mix), bring it to a simmer. Add to this the peels of organic grapefruit, lemons and oranges. These, she says, "are absolutely loaded with bioavailable quercetin and other bioflavonoids." Leave to simmer for 20 minutes. Once they've simmered and cooled, the peels are sweet, soft, and beyond delicious -- keep them in the fridge for a sweet and healthy treat. The remaining liquid can be reheated and enjoyed as a beverage. Source(s):
Jamison Starbuck, ND, practices natural and holistic medicine in Missoula, Montana. She is a past president of The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. ....... From Bottom Line's Daily Health News; bottomlinesecrets.com |
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