TREATING ALLERGIES HOLISTICALLY ©Deborah Barr In modern times people are experiencing increased sensitivity to nearly every imaginable substance from food to animals, dust, water, sunlight, environmental pollutants, and more. As spring and warmer weather approach, with new growth of plants and grasses, many people suffer with allergies and hay fever. This is especially true from spring through fall, but can occur anytime of year, especially in warm climates. We’re exposed to more than 60,000 different chemicals that accumulate in the body’s tissues and organs, weakening immunity and organ health. Pollen, molds, foods, chemicals, etc. are external sources of the problem. The root of allergies is organ disharmonies. Allergies represent poor immunity and a major malfunction in the antigen-deactivating capacity of the liver. The primary organ affected is the Lung. When the Qi (energy) of the lung is deficient its function is impaired and immunity is weakened. When external pathogens attack the already weakened Lungs and immune system, the result is often allergies, sinusitis, and asthma. Symptoms from allergic reactions range from frequent colds, hay fever, sore throats, itchy eyes, mucus problems, irritability, malaise, fatigue, depression, skin diseases, insomnia, headache, and digestive disturbances. Candida overgrowth is also implicated in extensive allergies. Allergic reactions to foods are our body’s way of telling us that certain foods are not appropriate. Reactions to highly refined, denatured and chemical foods and otherwise imbalanced foods are helpful since we know those foods are compromising our health. We now have no choice but to avoid them. Allergic reactions also occur from wholesome foods such as soy, whole wheat and other unprocessed foods. Reactions to certain foods are often not real allergies, but reactions to poor food combinations. Combine whole wheat with leafy greens and low-starch vegetables rather than with high protein like peanut butter or cheeseburgers on a bun, or toast with eggs. Please seek professional guidance on proper foods and combining for your specific health condition. Many people with allergies have complex problems that are best addressed with the help of a qualified practitioner. Congestion of the liver is often a significant pathogenic influence in allergy conditions. Qi (energy) stagnation of the liver and liver heat suppress the digestive and assimilative functions which, in turn, inhibit the Qi (energy) circulating functions of the Lung. Digestive weakness leads to dampness and phlegm in the stomach, throat and chest. Treatment should include foods and herbs that tonify digestion and decongest the lung and liver. Chronic asthma is a common pattern along with allergies and sinusitis. In this case there is deficiency of lung and kidney that must be addressed to reverse the symptoms and strengthen the health of these organs. These are issues too complex to be fully addressed in this article. Psychologically, the symptoms of allergies may be related to feelings of isolation, separation, arrogance, and an inability to accept the world as it is. Releasing emotional attachments is vital to lung health. Grief and sorrow are the associated emotions. These states congest the lungs. When they are identified, expressed and transformed, repression is cleared. Appropriate diet can assist in clearing grief along with Attitudinal Healing work and/or counseling. It’s helpful to work toward fewer feelings of separation and self-importance. Meditation practices can help one gain a sense of unity and wholeness. The following are some remedies for relieving allergy symptoms and improving overall health. To improve immunity, use chlorophyll-rich foods including all dark leafy green vegetables such as kale, boy choy, collard greens, watercress, mustard greens and dandelion greens. Supplement with algae, chlorella, spirulina, or cereal grasses. These help clear allergies because of their immune-enhancing, anti-inflammatory properties, and their abundance of omega-3 and GLA fatty acids. Irrigate sinuses with a saline solution or use a neti pot with warm sea salt water. This removes pollen from the nasal mucosa where it generates an allergic response. Natural antihistamines suppress the production of histamines and can reduce symptoms of seasonal allergies. Vitamin C and bioflavonoids are immune-enhancing antioxidants that provide natural antihistamines and anti-inflammatory effects. Bioflavonoids stabilize cell membranes so histamines aren’t easily released. They are found in berries of all kinds, some herbs, spices and citrus fruits. Green tea contains flavonoids called catechins and prevents cell receptors from triggering an allergic response. Drink several cups a day. Grape Seed Extract is high in antioxidants. Quercetin is a potent flavonoid and is found in apples, berries, grapefruit, onions and cabbage family vegetables. Quercetin is also available as a supplement. A quality formula is called Quercenol. Coenzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant with immune-boosting properties that enhances the effects of anti-allergy supplements. Xanthium is an herb well known to modern research and TCM. It opens nasal passages, expels dampness (mucus) and other symptoms. Health Concerns makes a formula that combines Xanthium with other herbs to increase its effectiveness without the side effects that are found in Western medications. Some research shows that milk thistle may inhibit the release of histamines. This potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory herb, known as an herb for liver health, contains flavonoids that protect cells by neutralizing the effects of free radicals. Probiotics such as PB8 Acidophilus are friendly bacteria that help normalize immune function and minimize allergic responses. Stinging nettle contains anti-inflammatory substances and flavonoids, vitamins and minerals and studies report significant reduction in hay fever symptoms with nettle leaf. Acupuncture and shiatsu stimulate points that support immune function and organ health. Significant improvement has been seen. Peppermint tea helps to break up congestion thereby relieving nasal symptoms. Garlic is rich in flavonoids and can reduce mucus and congestion. Thyme can loosen phlegm and calm a cough. A DIET high in omega-3 fatty acids which is abundant in some fish, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, nuts and whole grains, can benefit those who suffer with allergies and asthma. Pungent foods help clear mucus. They include onions, garlic, turnip, ginger, cabbage, horseradish, radish, daikon, and seaweed. Use basil, fennel, marjoram, rosemary, caraway, dill and bay leaf. The rich beta-carotene content of golden-orange and dark green vegetables helps protect lungs and immunity. They include carrot, winter squash, broccoli, parsley, and the above mentioned chlorophyll rich foods. High fiber foods cleanse the colon and lungs and whole grains are the best source, including brown rice, barley, quiona and millet. Avoid foods that inflame symptoms. Red meat and dairy products influence allergies by setting the stage for inflammation. Refined foods, white flour and sugar weaken immunity and worsen inflammation. Avoid spicy and greasy food, alcohol and sugar to reduce symptoms and improve health. Many allergy sufferers are finding that prescription and non-prescription drugs not only cause uncomfortable side effects, but also lose their effectiveness in time. The above remedies are safe and effective. However, unless fundamental changes are made in one’s diet and lifestyle that rebuild the strength of the organs, and support the health of the “whole” person, natural remedies will become another symptomatic treatment used to manage a crisis. Holistic suggests that all problems are urging us to make important new choices that will give us even greater health than we have imagined.
©Deborah Barr, 2000-08. All rights reserved.
|
"Deborah
Barr founded Whole Health Resources in 1985 and works with national
clientele to help them realize radiant health of body, mind/emotions
and spirit, as well as joyful, abundant living. WHR provides
a wide range of services including Holistic Health Counseling,
Natural Weight Loss Services, Whole Health Coaching, Shiatsu
Therapy and Yogatherapy, and a wide range of workshops and seminars.
Deborah is a sought after speaker and writer sharing her Holistic
message to audiences of regional and national scope." She
can be reached by calling 412.361.8600, e-mailing 
 |
|
 |
|
| Home | |
| Natural Weight Loss | |
| Presentations & Workshops | |
| Yoga with Adrienne | |
| Articles | |
| Newsletters | |
| Recipes | |
| Products | |
