Take a naturopathic approach to allergies
(My recent article in the Times & Transcript)

Just as Mother Nature graces us with warmer temperatures and the promise of summer around the corner, she also offers us an abundance of allergy-inducing pollen. Whatever seasonal allergy you suffer from, you understand all-to-well how much your symptoms of runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, sneezing and sinus congestion can dampen even the nicest Spring day. In order to fully understand allergies, it is important to first look at the immune system:

The immune system is a very tightly regulated mechanism whose key role is to recognize self from non-self. For example, it recognizes cells that contain harmful viruses or bacteria and is able to destroy them in order to keep us healthy. Allergies, however, are one example of how the immune system makes errors. If hypersensitive, the immune system can overreact and recognize innocuous substances as harmful. On first exposure to tree pollen, for example, a hypersensitive immune system will recognize the pollen as foreign (i.e., harmful) and procede to mount an allergic response. White blood cells will produce IgE antibodies against the allergen that will act as the body’s defense mechanism the next time that allergen is encountered. This process is known as sensitization, and while there are no immediate allergic symptoms during first exposure, the IgE antibodies will attach to mast cells and on subsequent exposure will create a chemical reaction, releasing histamine and causing the classic allergic symptoms. 

It is not clearly understood why some people develop allergies and others do not, however, there does appear to be a familial connection.

Conventional approaches often include decongestants, anti-histamines and nasal steroids. While these do offer immediate symptomatic relief for some, they are not long-term solutions and do not address the underlying cause of the allergies.

Some key naturopathic approaches to treating allergies include addressing the underlying cause of the allergy (the immune system) as well as reducing potential aggravating factors (such as diet and lifestyle). While it is best to start your allergy prevention program several months before allergy season starts, it is never too late to start addressing your health overall. Here are some general guidelines:

Reduce your exposure. This can be easier said than done but you can take steps to make sure your indoor air is as clean as possible by using an air purifier, a dust cover for your mattress, avoiding fresh cut flowers inside and washing your clothes in warm water to kill off any residual pollen. 

Eat a whole-foods, anti-inflammatory diet. Avoiding foods like dairy products (milk, butter, cheese, ice-cream), fried foods, processed foods, animal products including eggs will decrease inflammation throughout your body and decrease allergic symptoms. Avoiding dairy will also prevent excess production of mucous thereby decreasing sinus pressure and runny nose symptoms. Focusing on whole foods including plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains and fish will promote a decrease in inflammation and provide plenty of anti-oxidants, flavonoids, vitamins and minerals (including EPA and DHA), all of which are needed to build a healthy immune system. Consider adding a “green drink” that contains spirulina – a substance that has shown promise in recent research for decreasing cytokine production in allergic rhinitis patients. 2000mg/d was the most effective dose.  

Use a neti pot. This is an ayurvedic technique for nasal irrigation that involves rinsing the nasal passages with saline water to eliminate residual allergens that contribute to allergic symptoms. It is most effective when used daily.

Address stress. Stress weakens your immune system and makes you less able to handle the onslaught of allergic triggers.

Consider supplements including quercetin, a naturally occuring antihistamine and antiinflammatory, vitamin C, bromelain and probiotics. There are also several botanicals that are known to help modulate the immune system and decrease symptoms of allergies including butterbur (Petasites hybridus), perilla (Perilla frutescens), nettle (Urtica dioica), Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) American ginseng (Panax ginseng), albizia, skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) and feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium).

If these strategies alone do not help address your symptoms, consider seeing a naturopathic doctor to help assess your overall health and to obtain an individualized treatment plan. There are many options including botanicals, homeopathic remedies, acupuncture, nutrition and lifestyle advice that can be offered to help alleviate allergy symptoms.

Dr Nicole Basque, Naturopathic Doctor, practices at The Pear Tree Naturopathic Clinic located at 1067 Champlain Street in Dieppe (857-1300). Fluent in French and English, Dr. Basque practices family medicine and is currently accepting new patients. Call for an appointment today and join us on facebook.