Archive for the ‘Allergies’ Category

postheadericon Allergy Phoenix Az | Allergy Scottsdale | Phoenix Allergies

Allergy Phoenix Cure: Black Tea

Can natural chemicals found in black tea help allergy sufferers get some relief? According to a new study published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, compounds called theaflavins, found in black tea, could help in the treatment of certain types of allergies.

What are Black Tea Theaflavins?

Theaflavins are polyphenols naturally present in black tea but not in green tea. Like the polyphenols in green tea, black tea theaflavins have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may be effective for treating some types of allergies.

Can the Theaflavins in Black Tea Reduce Allergy Symptoms?

Researchers in Japan found that two black tea theaflavins protected mice against a type of allergy known as type 4 or delayed type hypersensitivity allergic reactions. An example of this type of allergic reaction is contact dermatitis, where the symptoms appear twelve to twenty-four hours after exposure.

When mice were fed theaflavins in black tea or injected with them, they didnt show the expected rise in inflammatory cells that would normally be seen with a type 4 allergic reaction. The black tea theaflavins these mice were given seemed to block the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines chemicals associated with allergic reactions.

Can Black Tea Theaflavins Treat Allergic Reactions in Humans?

Its hard to say whether black tea theaflavins can treat type 4 allergic reactions in humans, since this is one of the first studies to show this beneficial effect. If the same benefits are seen in humans, black tea theaflavins might prove helpful for treating the symptoms of an itchy contact dermatitis – or a bout of poison ivy.

Black Tea Theaflavins May Have Other Benefits Too

Black tea usually takes a back seat to green tea when it comes to health, but the unique theaflavins in black tea may have other health benefits as well. Some studies show they reduce cholesterol levels and may slow down the growth of some types of cancer. Theres ongoing research looking at the effects of theaflavins on various conditions as well as the benefits of drinking black tea.

The Bottom Line?

Black tea may not receive the same degree of fanfare as green tea, but it may very well prove to have some unique benefits of its own, and, possibly, play a role in treating allergies.

References:

Arch. Intern. Med. 163 (12): 144853

postheadericon Home Remedies For Allergies

Allergy could be defined as a harsh response to any substance which is not harmful. There are a couple of substances which can give rise to allergy in an individual; these substances are called as allergens. Pollen, feathers, chemicals, animal hackles, mites, dust and a number of foods are common allergens.

Some of the allergens are known for causing respiratory problems whereas others can lead to stomach ache, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, headache and fever. The respiratory allergies could be both seasonal (in case the source is a food item) or chronic. Allergies home remedies are helpful in diagnosing, reducing and treating the symptoms of allergies.

Potent Allergies Home remediesOne of the good home remedies for allergies involves using the tea of chamomile as a natural anti histamine. The drink is very popular worldwide. Drinking a cup or two of this tea sugared with pure honey everyday can increase the immunity of the body towards allergens. However, chamomile tea should not be consumed if the individual is ragweed allergic.

One of the effective home remedies for allergies includes using garlic, which is a natural producer of immunity in the body against several types of allergens. Garlic is also known as a decongestant agent therefore, it is an important ingredient in all cold and cough medicines. Fresh garlic is always better than it’s crushed or paste form. In case, a person suffers from acidity, garlic intake should be avoided.

Pure and plain form of honey is one of the good home remedies. It will not only fight against allergens but also builds immunity against different types of pollens. It should be kept in mind that if honey is cooked, its beneficial properties are gone.

The tea made of peppermint is one of the effective home remedies for allergies as it helps in relieving any congestion from the respiratory tract and the nose. In summer season, peppermint tea is quite refreshing and prevents sinus problems and cough.

Some also prefer below mentioned homemade remedies for allergies

Allergy home remedies also involve the use of ginger as it covers all the allergy causing factors. Ginger not only makes the body immune against allergens but also prevents histamine from over secreting, which can be troublesome for the allergic patient.

One of the effective home remedies for allergies include consuming black tea or green tea to prevent the over secretion of histamine the natural way. It is good to have tea with few drops of honey added. Black tea is although a good cure for allergies but it cannot replace green tea in benefits.Congestion can be treated with thyme. The tea can be used to cure problems of sinus, cough and stuffed nose. The tea can be prepared by adding a teaspoon of dried form of herb in a glass of water. It should be noted that the tea should not be consumed more than one time a day.Vitamin E is well known for its property of being anti allergic. If a capsule of four hundred milligrams of vitamin E is consumed daily for at least three to four weeks, allergy can be prevented.

Many people have allergies of some thing or the other. There are many among such people who find it hard to know the exact cause of their allergies. Allergy can be of anything like dust, smoke, some soap, some oils, some medicines, some vegetables and some kind of fruits, etc. There are various home remedies for allergies that can help in any kind of allergies. Seasonal allergies mostly occur during winter or summer or when the climate changes from one to other season. Chronic allergies are those allergies, which are caused due to some allergen, and it doesn’t depend on weather.

There are various symptoms of allergies, which again depend upon the reason for allergy and the seriousness of the allergy. Here are few symptoms of allergies that are listed in increasing order of the seriousness of the allergy.

Nasal blocking Skin rashes Difficulty in breathing Itchiness of the eyes Vomiting Abdominal pains Cramps Dysentery Giddiness

There are medications available for treating the allergies but it is better to try home remedies for allergies first and see if they are working on your allergies or not. Home remedies don’t have any side effects and help getting cure fast.

Home remedies for Allergies:

If you have allergy to dust, then the first thing you should do is keep your house and surrounding clean. As much as possible keep the house dust free. Whenever you go out of the house wear a mask covering your mouth and nose. This will also prevent the dust from entering your body. You can buy a humidifier, so as to keep the humidity levels in check. Avoid sitting in rooms, where there is no proper ventilation. You can hire a maid to do the cleaning work, as while cleaning the house lot of dust may enter your body.Taking vitamin E supplements of about 400 mg dosage daily till six weeks will also act as a good support in preventing the allergies.dd castor oil to one cup of water and drink it on an empty stomach. This is also very effective in preventing the allergy.In any fruit juice or vegetable juice of your liking add few drops of castor oil and drink it.For a month, take 100 mg of vitamin B5 on a daily a basis. This will give you quick relief from the allergy you are suffering from.Add plenty of garlic while preparing your food, as garlic gives instant relief form allergies of any kind. You can also fry two to three garlic cloves in butter and eat it for getting relief from allergies.Taking one glass of limejuice by adding one teaspoon of honey into it is very effective way of curing allergies of all kinds. You can drink this limejuice with honey on a daily basis for about a month for getting complete relief form allergies.Ginger is also very effective in treating the allergies. Cut few ginger pieces and add them into one glass of warm water and add honey into this. Drink this mixture and bite the ginger pieces for speedy relief form allergies.

A unique herbal formula specially designed by our ayurvedic experts to protect you from allergies and infection occurring in your body. A great herbal creation made on the guidelines of ayurveda strengthens the immune system making you resistant of many diseases.

How it Works

URTIPLEX is a powerful immuno modulator and possess anti inflammatory properties. It stimulates the immune system of the body. The activities of URTIPLEX include the stimulation of antibodies that are being secreted when there is any foreign invasion in the body. It promotes the phagocytic activities of the white blood cells to pray on the antigens floating in the body. It also helps in building up the resistance against infections and also prevents relapses. URTIPLEX promotes T cells activities in the body that fights against allergies and infection taking place in the body.

How to take

One to two Capsules two times a daySide effects

No side effects have been encountered by the usage of URTIPLEX when taken in prescribed dosage.

Each capsule contains :

Shankh bhasma – 60 mg Karpardika bhasma – 30 mg

Extracts derived from Urtiplex Capsules :

Rubia cordifolia – 300 mg Acacia catechu – 300 mg Emblica officinalis – 300 mg Picrorrhiza kurroa – 300 mg Adhatoda vasica – 300 mg Curcuma longa – 150 mg Tinospora cordifolia – 150 mg Andropogon muricatus – 120 mg Berberis aristata – 75 mg Hemidesmus indicus – 60 mg Nardostachys jatamansi – 60 mg Zingiber officinale – 30 mg

Urtiplex Capsules Preservatives :

Methylparaben & Propylparaben

Approved colours used in empty gelatin capsules.

Allergy in simple language can be defined as hypersensitivity of the immune system. Allergic condition is the aggravated form of an attack allergen which in normal time is harmless.Causes of allergy

There are many causes and factors that may lead to allergic condition. Commonly encountered are mentioned below.

Foods – allergy can be caused by any form of food. Commonly people have been found allergic to pistachio, pecans, pine nuts etc. Non- food proteins – it has been found that some people are allergic to latex. This problem is faced by patients. Genetic involvement – it has been seen that allergy follows in the hereditary pattern. It is commonly seen that identical twins suffers from almost same allergy. About 40 % of non identical twins also suffer from allergy as well. It is also noticed that parents with certain allergy may have off springs with similar allergy patterns. Environmental factors – this is the major contributing factor that is been seen commonly. Urban population is seen suffering more with allergies as compared to the rural segment mainly due ti industrialization. Exposure to allergy specifically in the early life may contribute to problems in the later part of the life.

Symptoms of allergy

Most of the allergens are generally air borne and are found in air causing symptoms like irritation in eyes, nose lungs etc. the allergens may also be responsible in narrowing the airways pathways thereby making breathing difficult. Besides airborne infections one can also suffer from allergy from food and water like in the case of food poisoning that commonly causes abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, diarrhea etc. Alergy can also occur on skin causing dermatitis etc.

postheadericon 4 Tips To Improve Your Allergy Response.

If you are interested in Improving Your Allergy Condition, the following information might prove to be valuable. You can start using these tips to immediately relieve your allergy as well as improving your health in general.

1. Consuming a Balanced And Healthy Diet

We often hear people say, “You Are What You Eat”. Most of the case, this is a true statement. Eat healthily and you will be healthy. One thing people always overlook is how a balanced diet can help a lot in your health, or in this case, allergy condition. By lowering fats consumptions you get to lower your risk in getting inflammation in the respiratory system, which in turn, lowering the risk of getting Asthma. Eating a healthy diet with a lot of fiber, vitamins and minerals will strengthen your immune system and promote detoxification of your body.

2. Exercise, exercise and exercise

This is also one of the most often heard advice if you want to improve your health. The benefits of doing more exercise do not need to be emphasized more. Exercising increases the lung capacity which will be a good thing for those who have asthma. Exercising is also one of the best way to de-stress your mind, body and soul. Stress causes the immune system to react abnormally and by lowering your stress level, you are able to minimize the allergic response of the immune system. Doing exercise also detoxifies your body through sweating.

3. Reduce your Stress

As mentioned above, reducing your stress can help the immune system to function normally. Some of the ways you can reduce stress is by exercising, laughing, socializing with people, playing, and by doing things you enjoy or love to do.

4. Take the Supplements

There are more than a hundred types of supplements you can find in a local pharmacy. Since it is proven that by taking more vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements can improve the quality of your health, why not take the supplements? Most people in our current world never really find time to prepare or eat healthy foods that contain substantial amount of vitamins and minerals, taking supplements as directed by the experts is a good way to supply your body with beneficial vitamins and minerals. Vitamin A, B, C, and Zinc are some of the supplements that improve your immune system significantly. By having a better, functioning immune system, it is believed that we could lower the risk of having allergies.

By practicing the four tips in your daily life, you too can improve your allergy.

For more information on how to relieve, cure, or improve your allergy condition, please visit this allergy site.

postheadericon Cockroach Allergy

Cockroach allergy problems can play a significant role in people with asthma.

People with a sensitivity to cockroaches often develop a rash if one of these insects crawls over their skin.

Direct contact with these insects is not generally the main problem.

Cockroach infestations cause a high level of feces and body parts from dead insects, as well as saliva.  Long term exposure can eventually cause some people to become sensitive to cockroach contamination, causing an allergy.

This is a similar problem to dust mite allergies, the main difference being that cockroaches are physically bigger (and more discussing) than dust mites.

This is particularly a problem with inner-city children who are more likely to live in an infested home.  Many hospital visits dealing with an asthma attack can be attributed to cockroach allergens.

In some areas, most homes have a cockroach problem.  A house can harbor thousands or even hundred’s of thousands of insects, generating a very large amount of air-bourn allergens within the home.

If you see just a single insect, you can be almost certain that it represents hundreds or thousands of others, hidden in cupboards, in walls, under the sink, behind the fridge etc.

The insects or their eggs can hitch a ride into your home with groceries, second hand furniture and other items brought into the home.  In some areas they may simply crawl in from the outside.

Apartment buildings are worse, since once one unit gets infested, the insects can easily find their way into other units.

The best way to deal with a cockroach allergy is to get rid of the insects.  Hire a professional pest control company, and if possible, stay out of the house for several days to minimize your exposure to the toxic chemicals used to exterminate cockroaches.

postheadericon The Secret To Living With Allergies, Part 10: Minimizing The Misery Of Seasonal Sinus Problems

You know it’s spring if you are experiencing any of the following: sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, congestion, watery eyes, scratchy throat, etc. For millions of people, the onset of the spring and summer seasons often bring about some or all of these symptoms. Allergies are the most common cause of such symptoms, and the main reason for chronic sinus and nasal problems.

If you suffer from pollen-based allergies such as hay fever, there is often no refuge from the myriad of allergens in the air. What’s even more frustrating is that your body’s response to these allergens usually doesn’t stop once you are within the confines of your home. With little relief indoors or outside, controlling allergies can be difficult to address. But you can get relief if you understand the triggers that produce allergy symptoms and learn techniques that will reduce your exposure to them. As Part 10 of the Allergy Control Products series on The Secret to Living with Allergies, this article discusses how allergens trigger sinus problems and offers some time-tested and physician recommended tips toward minimizing your allergy symptoms.

What’s at the Root of Your Sinus Problems

Diagnosing sinus problems can be difficult because the symptoms, regardless of the allergen causing it, are the same from allergy to allergy. It’s impossible to associate a sneeze with one type of allergen and watery eyes with another. This problem is particularly true for people who suffer from mild allergy symptoms. On the other hand, understanding what triggers your symptoms can be a little easier. For example, if you notice a correlation between your watery and itchy eyes and that layer of green dust on your newly washed car, it’s likely that you have a pollen allergy. Or, if being around a dog or cat causes a fit of sneezing, you are probably experiencing pet allergy symptoms.

Until you understand the cause of such symptoms, you cannot effectively manage sinus problems. Whether you are having full-blown allergy symptoms or mild ones, it is important to consult with your allergist or physician in order to precisely diagnose the problem and develop a plan to proactively control your sinus allergies.

Understanding that Sinus Allergies are not Just an Outdoor Problem

Not surprisingly, allergens are not limited to the outdoors. Pollens can enter your home quite easily, either through windows and doorways, or anyone and anything that passes through them. In addition, there are allergens found in the home that can also trigger sinus problems, like dust mites and pet dander.

Fortunately, there are many things you can do to minimize the impact of outdoor and indoor allergens to increase your well-being this spring and year-round. By following some simple rules around the home, not only can you reduce the triggers that cause sinus problems, but you can also reduce the need for allergy medications and treatments.

Taking Control of Your Sinus and Seasonal Allergy Problems

By following these 4 simple steps, you will be on the path to alleviating allergy symptoms caused by both outdoor and indoor allergens.

Step 1: Reduce the inhalation of outdoor and indoor allergens by wearing a face mask.

When engaging in indoor or outdoor activities where you have a high exposure to allergens, your most effective defense against allergens is to reduce the inhalation of them. After all, your nose is the pathway to your sinuses. There are many types of face masks available for this purpose. Whether the choice is a simple silk or cotton mesh mask, or a more technically advanced mask that is designed for not only allergen-protection but can also prevent exposure to viruses such as the Swine Flu, Avian Flu and SARS, you will greatly reduce your sinus problems by wearing one.

Step 2: Take a shower following outdoor activities.

Showering will wash off lingering outdoor allergens that you bring indoors. Just as an outdoor rainfall serves as a damper to allergens, a shower will do the same for your skin. If you are an allergy sufferer or have sensitive skin, use cleansers, lotions and hair products that are free of irritating chemicals, dyes and fragrances.

Step 3: Wash all clothing and materials that you’ve worn or used outdoors, immediately.

Machine washing will minimize the spread of allergens in your home. Allergen-removing laundry products are available, or use an environmentally friendly and/or sensitive skin friendly laundry product that will not irritate your skin, such as one that contains no phosphates, petroleum solvents, chlorine, perfumes, or dyes.

Step 4: Clear your nasal passages following outdoor activities.

Your nose works like a filter, capturing dust, pollen, mold spores, bacteria and other viruses that you might inhale. Just as your skin and clothing carries residual allergens, so do your nasal passages. There are many types of nasal cleansing techniques and products available. It’s simply a matter of finding one that works best for you.

- Saline rinses are one of the simplest methods for clearing your sinuses of allergens. – Neti Pots have long been used for an effective yet simple approach to nasal cleansing. Warm salt water from the Neti Pot is washed into the nasal passages to clear congestion and promote sinus health.- Steam inhalers, which are best known for relieving congestion, offer a gentler method for clearing nasal passages. – Nasal irrigation systems are designed to deliver both a thorough cleansing rinse and a micronized pulsating moisturizing mist spray for doctor-recommended rinses or solutions.