The naturopathic approach to allergies is to identify why the individual has the allergy, and then treat the root cause of the problem. If you are suffering from allergies that were present since birth or came back all of a sudden, or suspect that you may be suffering from allergies to the environment or certain foods, we can help you identify what caused the allergy to come about in the first place and help you treat the cause, we can also help you to decrease allergenic reactions to the environment and foods using natural supplements, along with other naturopathic modalities. Alternative therapies help to reduce inflammation, minimize hypersensitivity reactions, modulate the immune system and heal the digestive tract.
NUTRITION
An elimination/challenge trial may help uncover sensitivities. Remove suspected foods from the diet for two weeks. Reintroduce one at a time and watch for reactions. Do not perform a challenge with peanuts if there is history of anaphylactic shock.
A rotation diet, in which the same food is not eaten more than once every four days, may be helpful in minimizing allergic reactions.
Reduce pro-inflammatory foods in the diet including saturated fats (meats, especially poultry, and dairy), refined foods, and sugar. If you are sensitive to antibiotics, eat only organic meats. Increase intake of vegetables, whole grains, and essential fatty acids (cold-water fish, nuts [unless allergic to them], and seeds).
Omega 3 and certain Omega 6 essential fatty acids, such as flaxseed, borage, or evening primrose oil can be anti-inflammatory. Children should be supplemented with cod liver oil (1/2 to 1 tsp. per day).
PHYSICAL MEDICINE
Use a nasal rinse (Neti Pot) made with water and salt to taste like tears. Rinse each nostril and, with your head over a sink, hold your head sideways and let the water run from your upper nostril to your lower nostril. Keep your nostrils lower than your throat to prevent the salt water from draining into the back of your throat. This rinse shrinks your sinus membranes and increases drainage.
ACUPUNCTURE
Evidence suggests that acupuncture is a useful complementary or alternative treatment option for people with allergic rhinitis. In one study that included 45 people with hay fever, acupuncture was as effective as antihistamine therapy in improving symptoms and the beneficial effects appeared to last longer. Acupuncturists treat people with allergic rhinitis based on an individualized assessment of the excesses and deficiencies of qi located in various meridians. Allergic conditions often result from a liver or lung meridian deficiency. Treatment for this condition may include needling and moxibustion (a technique in which the herb mugwort is burned over specific acupuncture points).
HERBS AND HOMEOPATHY
Various herbs and homeopathic medicines have been quite helpful to reducing allergy symptoms and can also improve the body’s immune reaction to allergies.
pH Status
Alkalization of the body is carried out in various ways:
1. A diet consisting of basic food and fasting. This method is great however it is a slow process.
2. Allergies are always brought about by way of acidulation and they are much easier generated in an acid milieu. Sodium bicarbonate is the best base preparation and at the same time, it is the best anti-allergicum. We suggest different applications depending on the lifestyle and preference of each client. Primarily these supplements will rapidly neutralize allergic and inflammatory processes.
