Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies aren’t fun but there are ways to reduce your symptoms severity. Always consult your health care professional before starting supplements but here are some you may like to ask your practitioner about.

Vitamin C is a key nutrient in supporting the immune system. It plays a role in stabilising mast cells, these are they cells that release histamine. Not only does vitamin C work on mast cells but it always plays a role in breaking down histamine. Histamine is the substance that causes symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing and headaches. Doses depend on the individual and other factors like diet, lifestyle and stress levels. approximately 2g in separated doses throughout the day may be beneficial.

Quercetin is a flavonoid which is a major anti-inflammatory in the body and has shown to be an effective anti-allergic agent. Quercetin has been shown to inhibit the release of histamine as well as reduce the production of other inflammatory mediators in the body.  

Nigella sativa is a herbal medicine which has been shown to reduce the severity and occurrence of nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy nose and sneezing attacks in those with common and chronic allergic diseases. Nigella sativa has been shown to reduce gastric mucosal histamine and work as a bronchodilator meaning it can play an important role in conditions like asthma.

Naturopathic Recommendations to reducing allergy severity and managing histamine:

Dietary considerations: what you ingest can have a big role on histamine levels within the body. Certain foods contain higher levels of histamine some of these include aged cheeses, beer, wine, fermented foods, spinach, tomatoes, eggplant, canned food and left over food. If you are already prone to seasonal allergies considering a low histamine diet when your symptoms are most sever may be beneficial.

Support your gut health: allergies and intolerances have been closely linked to impaired gut barrier function. Nutrients like zinc carnosine, vitamin A, quercetin and turmeric have been shown to support and repair gut barrier function. Other enzymes within the gut such as DOA enzyme help to break down histamine. Nutrients like vitamin C, zinc and B6 support the activity of the DOA enzyme.  

 Reduce your stress: elevated stress levels have been shown to impact the function of the immune system and utilise our anti-histamine nutrients like vitamin C rapidly. Finding ways to manage your stress is essential in support immune function.