| May
2006
Allergy Relief Is Here!
For many, the arrival of spring equals the arrival of allergy symptoms from mild to severe. Luckily, this spring, it also means the arrival of relief. If you are an allergy sufferer, read on.
| Where does all that Mucus come from? |
 |
A question frequently asked by allergy sufferers is "Where does all that mucus come from?" So here, at last, is an answer. In an allergic reaction, mast cells release histamine which leads to a series of chemical reactions collectively called the "inflammatory response”. This inflammation involves a variety of processes such as:
• A contraction of the smooth muscle lining the respiratory tract
• Capillary dilation which increases the permeability of capillary walls
• Excessive secretion from glands leading to increased mucus
There you have it. But what can you do about it? One thing you can do about it is to consume plants that will reverse these processes.
• Relax the smooth muscle lining of the respiratory tract
• Decrease permeability of capillary walls
• Normalize secretions from glands |
| Allergy Clearing Tea is Back! |
 |
| The herbs in my Allergy Clearing Tea do all of the things listed above. This tea, unavailable for the last two allergy season's, is now back due to popular demand. Read on to see how each herb in the tea contributes to the relief of allergy symptoms.
Licorice was chosen for this preparation because of its anti-inflammatory properties and anti-allergy effects. It is specifically known for its soothing action on irritated respiratory passages and inhibition of inflammatory reactions. It also adds a nice sweet taste to the tea.
Rose hips contain flavonoids which have an anti-inflammatory effect by reducing histamine production. They also contribute to the great tast of the tea.
Nettles is believed to be effective in reducing allergic rhinitis. Nettles are know as one of the great botanical blood cleansers, aiding the body in ridding itself of accumulated toxins.
Eyebright calms acute catarrhal states of the head and upper respiratory tract. It is an astringent anti-inflammatory that constricts conjunctival and nasal blood vessels when they are in a reactive state. It is well-know for its ability to relieve nasal congestion and itchy eyes related to hay fever.
Red clover facilitates detoxification and is commonly referred to as a "blood cleanser" because of its action on the liver. The process of cleansing the body of any toxic load is of primary importance in the treatment of allergies..
Purchase Allergy Clearing Tea |
 |
| Upcoming Health Seminars & Classes |
I give two free health seminars each month. These are great opportunities to expose friends and family to new ideas and ways of thinking about health. Each seminar is on a specific health topic, and includes general information on exciting diagnostic approaches and natural therapies.
• Mental Clarity at Every Age May 10
• What Stands Between You and a Healthy Body Weight May 24
These seminars are held on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 PM to 8 PM at Yoga in the Pearl.
What health topics would you like covered in future talks? Use the email link at the bottom of this page to let me know your interests. In addition to the above scheduled talks, I am available to come speak to groups.
|
| A Personalized Program |
No two people are alike. The most effective and long lasting treatment of allergies will occur when the process is individualized. That means the diet, the herbs, and other supportive therapies are chosen based on individual needs.
In my naturopathic practice I use Nutrition Response Testing to find the underlying cause of an individual's allergies, and then work to eliminate that underlying cause.
If you are ready to get at the root cause of your health problems, call Yoga in the Pearl to schedule your Inital Health Evaluation. Because you read about this here on my website, I will offer you 1/2 off the cost of your initial consultation if scheduled during the month of May. To schedule Call 503-525 -9642.
|
 |
|
With spring in full bloom, beautiful sunny skies and colorful landscapes can mean sinus congestion, headache, itchy eyes, and runny nose all accompanied by a feeling of heaviness and fatigue.
Also known as seasonal allergies or hay fever, these symptoms are most commonly treated with over-the-counter medications that may provide short term relief, but do not address the underlying cause of the symptoms.
In the short term, the relief provided by these over the counter medications can be most welcome. Over the long run, however, leaving the underlying cause unaddressed can lead to a dramatically diminished state of health, including conditions that are far more serious than seasonal allergies.
In this month's Art of Health Bulletin I describe my allergy clearing tea which provides symptomatic relief while stregthening the body's natural defenses against allergies.
I also recommend taking a look at what might be contributing to your allergies. Finding these underlying factors can be the pivotal step in eliminating allergies from your life alltogether and improving your overall health.
Yours in Health, |
| |
 |
 |
| Quick
Links... |
Sign
up for
The Art of Health Bulletin
and receive
Ten Tips for a
High Energy Day
FREE!
|