Allergies Overview

  • An allergy, or hypersensitivity reaction, occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to a substance that is normally harmless (allergen), such as mold, pollen, animal dander or dust mites.The white blood cells of an allergic individual produce an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE), which attaches to the allergen. This triggers the release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals that cause allergic symptoms, such as runny nose, watery eyes and hives.
  • If the allergen is airborne, the allergic reaction will primarily affect the eyes, nose and lungs. If the allergen is ingested, the allergic reaction will primarily affect the mouth, stomach and .... Read more

 

rVita Top Remedies for Allergies

Therapy
Scientific Rating
from Natural Standard
User Reviews
Highest=10
rVita Composite Score
Ayurveda Good Evidence 10 Recommend
Nasal irrigation Good Evidence Write a review Recommend
Butterbur (Herbs and Supplements) Good Evidence Write a review Recommend
Probiotics (Herbs and Supplements) Good Evidence Write a review Recommend
Bromelain (Herbs and Supplements) Good Evidence 8 Recommend
Applied Kinesiology Unclear or Conflicting Evidence Write a review -
Hypnosis Unclear or Conflicting Evidence Write a review -
Cats Claw (Herbs and Supplements) Unclear or Conflicting Evidence Write a review -
Sorrel (Herbs and Supplements) Unclear or Conflicting Evidence Write a review -
Acupuncture Unclear or Conflicting Evidence Write a review -
Honey (Herbs and Supplements) Unclear or Conflicting Evidence 8 -
Vitamin E (Herbs and Supplements) Unclear or Conflicting Evidence 10 -
Aromatherapy Unclear or Conflicting Evidence 5 -
Lactobacillus acidophilus (Herbs and Supplements) Unclear or Conflicting Evidence Write a review -
Choline (Herbs and Supplements) Unclear or Conflicting Evidence 10 -
Stinging nettle (Herbs and Supplements) Unclear or Conflicting Evidence Write a review -
Perilla (Herbs and Supplements) Unclear or Conflicting Evidence Write a review -
Yoga - Write a review -
 
How Scientific Ratings are Derived
 

Allergies Expert Articles

Which alternative therapies are used in the treatment of allergies and how effective are they?

by: Natural Standard Collaboration
January 15, 2008

Good scientific evidence: Bromelain: Bromelain may be a useful addition to other therapies used for sinusitis (such as antibiotics) due to its ability to reduce inflammation/swelling. Studies report mixed results, although overall bromelain appears to be beneficial for reducing swelling and improving breathing. Better studies are needed before a firm conclusion can be made.

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What Preventative Measures Might I Take to Reduce My Allergies?

by: Natural Standard Collaboration
January 15, 2008

Avoid substances that trigger allergic reactions. Patients who are allergic to pollen should remain indoors in the morning and evening when outdoor pollen levels are highest.Keep windows closed, and use the air conditioner, if possible, in the house and car.Do not dry clothes outside.

Read more    

Allergies and Vitamin E

by: Natural Standard Collaboration
January 31, 2008

Although thought to aid in reducing the nasal symptoms of allergies, vitamin E intake may not be effective. However, current evidence is limited, and more studies are needed before a firm conclusion can be drawn.Copyright © 2007 Natural Standard Inc.

|    Read All
 

Allergies News and Blogs

How Effective is Applied Kinesiology in Diagnosing and Treating Food Allergy

www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov - June 14, 2008

Applied Kinesiology is an alternative therapy that assesses the state of the body through light touch and determines what is wrong with the patient. This therapy is known to treat allergic conditions such as allergy, arthritis, and stress. However, scientific ratings show unclear evidence and conventional therapy does not consider kinesiology as a valid method of diagnosis.

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Allergies: Finding relief for a common condition

www.lef.org - June 13, 2008

Article describing types of allergies and available treatments.

Read All
 

Fight Allergies with Vitamin E

bastyrcenter.org - June 13, 2008

Beneficial effects of Vitamin E on allergies, specifically rhinitis.

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Preventing Allergies with Vitamin E

www.toyourhealth.com - June 13, 2008

Article quoting a study about a link between increased intake of vitamin E reduced levels of the allergy-related antibody IgE.

Read All
 

Natural Medicine: Acupuncture Pins Down Seasonal Allergy Relief

seattlepi.nwsource.com - January 12, 2008

According to a 2004 study published by Allergy: European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can be safe and effective treatment options for patients with seasonal allergies.

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Allergies Latest Reviews

I am an in allergy sufferer and at a friend's recommendation decided to try Neti pot. It provided much relief from congestion for me.

March 1, 2008
by:AUSTIN

I use Eucalyptus oil for sinus infections and other cold symptoms. Inhaling vapors by adding leaves or oil to boiling water really helps me in reducing symptoms. Definitely clears my sinuses.

March 5, 2008
by:ALEJANDRO

I take Yerba Mate Tea regularly for the last 3 days or so. My seasonal allergy have subsided.

March 12, 2008
by:EVAN

Hydrogen peroxide inhalation brought ragweed allergy under control for me.

March 13, 2008
by:JULIUS

N-Acetylcysteine works well for preventing symptoms in long time allergy sufferer.

March 14, 2008
by:DANA
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