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The Correlation Between Histamines & Allergies
Spring is here! The snow has melted, temperatures are rising, and birds are once again singing, but unfortunately it's not a season that everyone looks forward to. For those with seasonal allergies, spring only marks the beginning of misery— dealing with a runny or itchy nose, sneezing, and general irritation. During this time when the air is thick with microscopic plant particles, allergy sufferers experience immune imbalances from mast cells that cause excess histamine and the annoying symptoms of allergies. Histamine is a chemical made by the immune system to get rid of allergens. It has an irritating affect that causes us to sneeze, itch, or get teary-eyed, all in an effort to drive out the triggering allergens. This is how it works. An allergen first sends a signal to specific immune cells called mast cells, telling them to release histamine. Histamines increase blood flow to the areas that are affected by the allergens, which leads to inflammation. Other immune chemicals then jump in to help get rid of the allergens and repair the inflamed area. An example of this process that most of us are familiar with is when we get a stuffy nose or sneeze a lot. That excess production of mucous was triggered by histamine. Over-the-counter "anti-histamines" are medications that attempt to counteract histamine release in order to decrease allergy symptoms. If you're looking for natural products to counteract allergic reactions, look for herbs or nutrients that stabilize the mast cells. Some effective products also help improve the integrity of the mucous membranes in the nasal passage or provide general immune support. The majority of the natural options are most effective if you take the product daily, even before seasonal allergies start as a preventative measure. Natural options may not be as potent or quick-acting as over-thecounter anti-histamines, but they are preferred because they act preventatively and have no unwanted side effects like drowsiness. One great natural option is Natural D-Hist, a targeted blend of flavonoids, antioxidants, proteolytic enzymes, and botanicals designed to provide comprehensive support for seasonal challenges caused by common environmental allergens. Natural D-Hist includes quercetin, a powerful flavonoid that supports healthy histamine levels. Bromelain enhances the absorption of quercetin and supports mucosal tissue health. Stinging nettle leaf balances the hyper-immune response and NAC (N-acetyl cysteine) clears the airways by promoting normal viscosity of mucus. This powerful combination actively promotes healthy nasal and sinus passages for individuals with elevated histamine and respiratory irritation. You can also take stinging nettle leaf (Urtica dioica) alone. It's a plant that has been shown to balance immune response, specifically in the airways and nasal passages. Studies have shown that the extract of stinging nettle leaf balances a variety of inflammatory activities that affect respiratory health. Stinging nettle leaf controls mast cell degranulation, prostaglandin formation, and histamine action all contributing to a balanced inflammatory response. Combining herbs, such as turmeric, nettle, bayberry, eyebright, yarrow, and goldenseal is also an excellent choice to help stabilize mast cells and shore up mucous membranes. Turmeric Supreme Allergy from Gaia Herbs combines turmeric with other herbal extracts to support a healthy response to allergens. Quercetin, a flavonoid found in many plants, is especially effective for allergy symptom overload because it stabilizes mast cell membranes and prevents the release of histamine and other inflammatory agents. Black pepper extract is included to increase absorption and the bioavailability of curcumins. QBC Plex from Solaray contains a synergistic anti-inflammatory combination of quercetin, bromelain, and vitamin C. These flavonoids are intended to provide nutritive support to help maintain normal capillary permeability. Bromelain is the enzyme from pineapple that helps break down irritating proteins. Quercetin is one of the most well-known noncitrus bioflavonoids. Vitamin C is an important nutrient intended to provide nutritive support for healthy collagen synthesis, development of cartilage and bone, capillary and blood vessel integrity, healthy skin, and nerve impulse transmission. If you dread spring every year because of your seasonal allergies, try taking a preventative approach with natural options. This spring, you may finally be able to enjoy the smell of fresh cut grass and flowers in bloom! These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. |
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