Treatments for fall allergies

By Jonathan Evans Herbal Information Specialist /Business Representative for the Herbarium Special to PRIME Ed. note: This month we revisit a classic Jonathan Evans column from May 2006. Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis is a response to pollens that affect the mucous membranes of the nose, eyes and air passages. At least 22 million Americans suffer from seasonal sneezing and other reactions. There are three distinct allergy seasons, distinguished by the type of pollens at the time. Right now, sufferers are dealing with tree pollens, and many grass pollens. In some cases, the mold spores found in leaves are also stirred up as you do cleanup around the yard. Treating allergies naturally Some of the best remedies for allergies can be found in herbal and homeopathic combinations that can and do relieve the symptoms and don't leave you feeling groggy or cotton mouthed, as some over the counter remedies will. For example, the American Herbal Science, Dr. Clayton brand, puts one of the best all-around formulas out, called Sinus-Ade. I am living witness to the potency of the product. I suffered for many years and could not find relief using the over- the-counter items. Plus after many years of using such products, I found I was becoming immune to the drugs. As I began using Sinus-Ade I found quick relief from the symptoms. Over time, my immunity to the pollens and other allergens increased and today I rarely have to use my herbal remedies. Another general symptom brand is Buried Treasure. Their Aller-Ease formula contains vitamins, herbs and other nutrients that help with the inflammatory process. Aller-Ease contains such items as quercetin a bioflavinoid that helps inhibit over production of histamine and bromelain which increases absorption of quercetin and is very effective in treating inflammation of the delicate sinus tissues. It also has L-Histidine, an essential amino acid that supports normal histamine production, and MSM, a sulfur compound that works as an anti inflammatory. The product softens the cell walls, allowing allergens and foreign proteins to be moved out of the body. Best of all, it works quickly, and is in a fruit juice base, so even fussy children, (and fussy adults) will actually use it. Already taking other medicines? For people who are afraid of mixing herbs with other medications they may be on, let me suggest Homeopathic remedies. There are a variety of Homeopathic remedies that work well without side effects. Most Homeopathic remedies found in health and nutrition stores are labeled for easy reference. Some ingredients will include: Arsenicum album, Calcarea Carb, Allium Cepa, Euphrasia Officinalis and kali Bichromicum, to name a few. In general, the Homeopathic remedies may contain several other individual items for particular symptoms or problems, but they are very safe and very effective. The last suggestion for a stress-free cleanup is, hire someone to do the raking and rubbish removal. Good luck! --Jonathan Please send your questions on botanical remedies to Natures Rx : Jonathan Evans via e-mail at info@theherbarium.com, or by regular mail at The Herbarium, 264 Exchange Street, Chicopee, MA 01013. If you are requesting additional information from Jonathan, please include a self-addresed stamped envelope.