Natural Treatments for Springtime Allergies

     Seasonal allergies are very common. Contrary to popular belief allergies can affect people of all ages, although they tend to develop in childhood or adolescence. Sometimes people can develop an allergy in later years. There is a genetic component to those who suffer from allergies. However, newer studies have linked them to obesity in women (Vieira VJ et al 2005). Allergic symptoms occur because of an over reactive immune response to a substance called an allergen which may in itself be a harmless substance. Common inhaled allergens are pet dander, pollen, grass, dust and mould. Symptoms of seasonal allergies are many and include:

• runny nose
• watery, burning, or itching eyes
• red and swollen eyes
• itching (nose, mouth, throat, skin, or any other area)
• wheezing
• coughing
• difficulty breathing
• hives and skin rashes
• headache

     Typical pharmaceutical allergy treatment is a very lucrative business for drug companies. Medicines sold in pharmacies for allergies are antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids. While these medicines are effective in reducing the symptoms of allergies, they may have significant side effects. Antihistamines, for example, can cause drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and many other unwanted effects (NIH 2005a). Oral corticosteroids taken for more than three or four weeks are associated with significant side effects, including a weakened immune system and many other unwanted consequences (NIH 2005b).

     Fortunately, it nutritional supplements and homeopathy can help reduce allergic symptoms without the side effects. Some newer herbs such as perilla seed extract, butterbur, rosemaric acid and quercitin have been used with great success. The standard homeopathic remedies for allergies always are useful during the allergy season. Herein are a few natural remedies for allergies: 

Homeopathic Remedies for Allergies

     Homeopathic remedies are many to manage allergy symptoms. For prevention I recommend people use a remedy called "Pollens 19 30CH", four pellets once per week in between meals. It helps to desensitize people to the common allergens in the environment. 
     Remedies that are useful for acute allergies are Allium Cepa (itching watery eyes and nose), Sabadilla (runny watery nose), Euphrasia (runny, watery eyes), Wyethia (itching palate and throat). Because homeopathic remedies are suited to symptoms, one can call their homeopath to have a remedy prescribed to their specific unique symptom picture. 

Supplements for Allergies

Perilla seed extract Perilla frutescens is a plant whose leaves are commonly used as a garnish with raw fish in Japan. It is also used in Chinese herbal medicine. The functional components of perilla are flavonoid aglycones such as luteolin, apigenin, and rosmarinic acid, all of which have been studied for their anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory potential. One study assessed the clinical features of patients with asthma who had been given perilla seed oil for 4 weeks and found that breathing measurements were significantly increased compared to asthmatics who had not been treated. Another study observed the effects of perilla seed extracts in volunteers with allergic symptoms such as sneezing, nasal obstruction, and itchy skin and eyes. 20 participants were given perilla seed extracts for 2-4 weeks, and their change in symptoms was evaluated. Symptoms were improved in all 20 patients, with significant improvements in sneezing (almost 40%), stuffed nose (over 60%) and itchy eyes (50%).  

Fish oil Fish oils contain the omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). EPA and DHA exert anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic effects because omega-3 fatty acids compete with arachidonic acid, which serves as a substrate for conversion into pro-inflammatory eicosanoids (Leaf A 2002; Connor WE 2001; Calder PC 2001).

GLA Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 (n-6) fatty acid found in borage seed oil, evening primrose oil, and black currant seed oil. GLA serves as a substrate for prostaglandins, including the anti-inflammatory prostaglandin-1, and as a precursor in the synthesis of EPA.

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) Stinging nettle leaf contains carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, potassium, and flavonoids such as quercetin and rutin. This herb has anti-inflammatory effects (Riehemann K et al 1999). Historically, nettle has been used as a laxative and diuretic. Nettle may be beneficial for the treatment of allergic rhinitis, possibly because of the quercetin content (Blumenthal M 1998).

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) NAC has a powerful effect on raising glutathione levels in the body. Glutathione is a naturally occurring antioxidant that protects cells from the damage inflicted by free radicals. It prevents oxidative cell damage and is involved with immune system function. Glutathione depletion is linked to many chronic diseases. Studies suggest that it may be poorly absorbed and that supplementation with precursors may be more effective in raising glutathione levels (Witschi A et al 1992). NAC has been shown to increase lung function by decreasing inflammation in experimental asthma models (Blesa S et al 2003). Additionally, NAC has been found to enhance T cell function. One in vitro study showed that NAC increased levels of IL-4 (Monick MM et al 2003). IL-4 enhances the ability of T cells to regulate pro-inflammatory cells, which further suggests that NAC can help reduce inflammation. (source www.lef.org) 

Book an Appointment for a Spring Health Tune Up

 To book an appointment with Caruso Homeopathic Clinic, please call the office at 519 827 9237 or book online, click here.

Free Upcoming Workshop on Preventing the Major Killers of Our Time!

     On Thursday March 24th from 7pm till 8:30pm in Guelph, we are having a much awaited workshop that will impact the quality of your health. Over the years I have had many clients suffering from a variety of diseases such as autoimmune conditions, cancer, heart disease and digestive disorders. I have found many overlapping similarities in research and treatment protocols for a lot of conditions which can be addressed effectively with prevention. This seminar is a must for those who want to:

• improve the quality of their life
• prevent the major killers of our time, heart disease and cancer
• feel fit and healthy
• optimize your health via diet and natural remedies
• look your best and reduce your weight
• why and how you need to move your body to stay in shape
• extend your life span

     I am offering this seminar for free if you bring a friend with you. Both you and your friend are welcome to come no charge.     Round up a friend and learn how to preserve your health and vitality. Please note there are only 20 spots available for this talk. Please pre-book as it will be filling up quickly. Don't delay call the office today at 519 827 9237

Nail Health, What Your Nails Say About Your Health?    

     Nails are a marker for health. They are composed mostly of the protein keratin. Healthy nail beds are pink and nail disorders can be an indicator for health issues in both the nails of the fingers and the toes. Simple grooming practices can improve the condition of dry and brittle nails. Always cut your nails after they have soaked to prevent further cracking. Use nail polish remover as little as possible or choose a non drying variety. Keep your nails no longer than a quarter inch long because longer nails are more apt to break. Apply hand cream to your hands and nails each time you wash them.

     Some nutritional deficiencies are linked to poor nail health such as:

• a lack of protein, folic acid and vitamin C leads to hangnails
• a B vitamin deficit can cause fragile nails and a tendency to horizontal ridges
• low digestive juices such as hydrochloric acid leads to breaking and chipping nails
• a lack of B12 can cause dryness and curved nails
• low beneficial flora (acidophilus and bifidobacteria) can lead to fungal growth under and around the nails
• an iron deficiency can cause spoon or concave shaped nails
• a lack of zinc can cause white spots on the nails

     Problems can range from thickness, discoloration, horizontal ridges, brittle, peeling nails and fungal infections. What is going on in the inside reflects on the outside. "As within so without" some wise person once said.

Brittle and Peeling Nails

     Brittle and peeling nails are an issue for many. As people age our nails become drier and may crack and break easier. Those who have low thyroid levels and hormone deficiencies tend to suffer more with this condition. It can also be an occupation hazard for those who have to wash their hands frequently. Applying moisturizer to the hands and nails each time one washes them or does the dishes can help prevent breaking. Some nutritional deficiencies contribute to this problem as mentioned above. A lack of protein, B vitamins and low digestive juices can contribute to weak nails. Some supplements that help to improve the strength of nails and improve keratin production are B complex, Silica or horsetail extract, black currant seed oil (contains GLA which is great for skin, hair and nails) and calcium and magnesium.

Fungal Infections

     Typically the toenails suffer from fungal infections. Those tend to suffer from toenail fungal infections are the elderly, diabetics, those who eat a diet rich in sugar and refined carbohydrates and those who have had toe injuries that damage the nail bed. Fungal infections can be spread so if someone in your family has a toenail fungus be sure to disinfect your shower area and clean your feet after swimming. Symptoms of toenail fungus are thickened, discolored and brittle nails. This condition can be very difficult to treat naturally and with drugs. It is a tenacious condition that requires much patience. One home remedy that has worked for many is simply applying vick’s vapour rub on the nails twice a day. Natural remedies include capryllic acid, probiotics, grape fruit seed extract, olive leaf extract, undecyclic acid and thyme.

Nail Shapes

     Curved nails where the nail curves in the right direction but excessively can indicate a heart or lung condition. When the nails are curved up like a spoon it can indicate an iron deficiency or a fungus. Nails that are ridged vertically indicate stress, infections, nutritional imbalance, heart disease or major illness. Thick nails can be related to thyroid conditions, nail bed injuries or fungus. Ridges that run up and down the nail can be an indicator for a tendency to develop arthritis. Dented or pitted looking nails may be found in those with psoriasis or a protein deficiency.

Nail Colour

     Yellow nails may be a result of nail polish, fungal infections or disorders of the lymphatic, respiratory or hepatic system. Black nails are a result of injury or fungal forms. A dark blue line in fair skinned people may be an indicator of melanoma. Greenish coloured nails is a sign of a bacterial infection or fungus. White spots on the nails may be a result of a zinc deficiency or injury. When the nail bed is missing the moon it can be a sign of lupus or autoimmune disease. Dark nail beds are a sign of poor circulation, heart disease or shock.