Allergies Health Article

Allergic rhinitis

The following can help to relieve the symptoms of airborne allergies:

• Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) has antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. The common dose is 300 mg four times daily.
• Grape (Vitis vinifera) seed extract has antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. The usual dose is 50 mg three times daily.
• Ephedra (Ephedra sinicia), also called ma huang, has anti-inflammatory activity and is proven effective in treating allergies. Taken as a tea thrice daily or 12.5–25 mg in capsule form. Ephedra should not be used for prolonged periods of time, as it can raise blood pressure, cause rapid heartbeat, and interfere with adrenal gland function.
• Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has cortisone-like activity which is anti-inflammatory, stimulates the adrenals, and relieves allergy symptoms. Can be taken as a tea or 100–300 mg in capsule form. Long term use can result in sodium retention or potassium loss.
• Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) has bronchodilator activity, is an anti-inflammatory, and prevents allergic reactions. It is taken in combination with other herbs.
• Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) seeds are used in Chinese medicine for wheezing and coughing.
• Echinacea (Echinacea species) may have antiinflammatory activity and boost the immune system.
• Khellin (Ammi visnaga) has bronchodilator activity.
• Cramp (Viburnum opulus) bark has bronchodilator activity.
• Traditional Chinese medicine treats allergic rhinitis with various species. Patent combination medicines are: Bu Zhong Yi Qi Wan (Tonify the Middle and Augment the Qi) and Yu Ping Feng San (Jade Windscreen) are used for preventing allergies, and Bi Yan Pian (Rhinitis Infusion) is often prescribed for syptoms affecting the nose.
• The homeopathic remedies Rhus toxicodendron, Apis mellifica, and Nux vomica have decongestant activities. They are taken internally.
• Vitamin C has antihistamine and decongestant activities.
• Vitamins A and E are antioxidants and help to promote normal functioning of the immune system.
• Coenzyme Q₁₀ may help to promote normal functioning of the immune system.
• Zinc may boost the immune system.
• N-acetylcysteine may have decongestant activity.
• Acupuncture has been shown to be as effective as antihistamine drugs in treating allergic rhinitis. It is also used to help prevent allergic reactions by strengthening the immune system.