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Allergy
An allergy is an abnormal reaction of the body's immune system to a foreign
substance. Well known foreign substances include pollen, food, animal hair, dust
mites and certain drugs. Initially the trigger substance does not cause any
symptoms but the immune system is put on alert. Antibodies are produced by the
immune system against the allergen and certain types of white blood cells become
sensitive to it. Later contacts stimulate specialized cells (mast cells), to
release histamine which triggers the allergic response. A typical allergic
response involves runny nose, itchy red eyes, sneezing, itchy skin, rash, chest
congestion and difficulty breathing. These symptoms can be seen in allergic
rhinitis, hayfever, asthma, urticaria and allergic eczema. Severe allergic
reactions involve anaphylactic shock and angioedema, the symptoms being swollen
face, lips and tongue, wheezing and difficult breathing, itchy, red rash and
intense anxiety. Allergies can also affect the digestive tract with symptoms
being bloating, flatulence, inflammation, indigestion, heartburn, nausea, loose
bowel motions or constipation.
In herbal medicine allergies can be treated with immuno-modulating herbs,
anti-histamine, demulcents, anti-inflammatory, decongestant, anti-tussive herbs.
Every individual is treated uniquely and holistically. Reducing the amount of
contact with the allergen is important also. This can include elimination diets,
air purifiers, HEPA filter vacuums, allergen proof bed covers etc. Some herbs
used are very powerful and are therefore only acquired through a qualified
medical herbalist. |
