Allergic rhinitis is a health condition which refers to allergic reaction to airborne particles that usually affect the eyes and nose.
According to health experts, there are two types of allergic rhinitis; one is seasonal allergic rhinitis which is also known as hay fever, and perennial allergic rhinitis, which occurs all year-round. The substances which cause these allergic reactions are primarily the source for the occurrence of this ailment, and usually enters the body by inhalation. Seasonal rhinitis is primarily caused by outdoor allergens, and perennial allergic rhinitis is caused by indoor allergens.
Symptoms and Causes
The common symptoms of this allergic reaction resemble a cold, except that they occur only during certain seasons or weather patterns, which usually is the case for hay fever. For perennial allergic rhinitis, it usually occurs around certain animals or small household pests. Millions of people are affected by this condition, and those who are affected generally have asthma too. Among the allergies' other symptoms include stuffy nose, sneezing, post-nasal drip, red, itchy, and watery eyes, swollen eyelids, sore throat, itchy mouth, throat, ears, and face, and dry cough.
The body's immune system is designed primarily to ward off harmful substances like bacteria and viruses. However in the case of rhinitis, the body's immune system overresponds to the substances or particles that are generally harmless to most individuals, like pollen, mold, and pet dander, and launches an assault, which is called an allergic reaction. In the event of an allergic reaction, some substances called histamines are released, among other chemicals, and these contribute to the uncomfortable symptoms of this condition.
Herbal Treatments For This Allergic Reaction
This herb is considered by some to be a potential treatment for allergic rhinitis because the main active ingredient in it is gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid that may relieve allergy symptoms.
This herb has been traditionally utilized for treating asthma and bronchitis, as well as to reduce mucus. According to lab research, an extract of this herb was as effective and less sedating than cetirizine, which is a commonly-prescribed non-sedating antihistamine.
Some laboratory research has confirmed that this herb contains substances that boost the activity of the immune system and reduce inflammation, and many herbalists recommend using echinacea to treat allergic rhinitis, however for some individuals this herb may also cause an allergic reaction too, so extra caution is advised before using this herb.
This compound is a flavonoid or a plant pigment that is responsible for the colors found in fruits and vegetables. This compound works by inhibiting the production and release of histamines, which are substances that greatly contribute to allergy symptoms of rhinitis, like runny nose and watery eyes. This compound works efficiently when used in conjunction with bromelain, a digestive enzyme found in pineapples.
Extensive research has noted that spirulina, which is a potent an immune system stimulant, may aid in protecting against negative allergic reactions. This compound helps prevents the release of harmful histamines.
By : Eliza Maledevic Read more here and here.
