When I was in my second year of university, I discovered I had multiple food allergies. Some of the symptoms such as sneezing and itchy nose, I had thought was due to hay fever. I saw a naturopath and underwent IGE testing. I found out I was allergic to apples (and I was consuming apples on a daily basis at the time).
Through self elimination I have since isolated many other allergens including spices (clove, turmeric, etc), herbs (rosemary, lavender, etc), tapioca starch, strawberries, and many other foods. On exclusion of these foods my symptoms have gradually resolved until even my hay fever disappeared.
So this week in the blog, I wanted to discuss symptoms of allergy and some simple treatments you can use to assist this.
Process of the allergic response:
Allergens can be many things such as foods, dust mites, pollen, mould, insects or pet dander.
Allergen binds with IGE receptors on mast cells and causes degranulation.
This causes release of histamine.
Histamine dilates blood vessels, increases heart rate, affects the nerves to cause itching, and constricts the lungs and intestines.
Allergies can present as symptoms such as:
Rashes
Urinary frequency
Abdominal pain
Pounding headaches
Diarrhoea
Itchy hives
Itchy eyes, ears or nose
Sneezing
Coughing
Swelling hands
Severe anxiety and palpitations
Insomnia
Increased mucous production after eating
Treatments:
My number one tip is to treat the cause of the allergy and avoid contact. Therefore, if you don't know what is causing your allergy see a natural healthcare practitioner experienced in dealing with allergies and get tested. That said some of these methods may work for those who have already identified the cause of their allergies.
A low histamine diet - reduces the amount of histamine in the body (high histamine foods consist of spinach, alcohol, fermented foods, eggplant, etc).
Quercetin - increases clearance of histamine in the body and is anti-inflammatory
Vitamin C - increases clearance of histamine in the body
Vitamin D - known to be anti-inflammatory in the body
Probiotics - those with ailing gut health will suffer more from allergies
Bromelain - found in pineapple - helps breathing and is anti-inflammatory
Omega 3 - found in oily fish such as salmon or mackerel - is anti-inflammatory
Nettle tea - anti-inflammatory - however, can cause allergy in sensitive individuals
Chamomile tea - anti-inflammatory and known to be good for allergies - however, can cause allergy in those sensitive to salicylates
Horsetail - drop dose tincture or herbal tea for those with low silica and multiple food allergies
Homeopathic Belladonna - for severe reactions (hot, red and swollen)
Having an air purifier (HEPA filter) in the house is excellent for those with pollen allergies and living in areas with high pollution such as highways.
I hope that helps those of you who are struggling with allergic symptoms.
Remember that you don't have to suffer with these symptoms. If you are finding that nothing is working it may be best to see a health practitioner and get some advice.
I am available for short 15 minute appointments via my website for anyone wanting to discuss their symptoms and find out what I can do for you.
Love and light,
Branwen
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