DESCRIPTION

An allergy is an inappropriate response by the body's immune system to a substance that is not normally harmful. Allergies are an overreaction of the immune system. People who have allergies have a hyper-alert immune system that overreacts to a substance in the environment called an allergen. Exposure to what is normally a harmless substance, such as pollen, causes the immune system to react as if the substance is harmful. The immune-system is the highly complex defense mechanism that helps us to combat infections. It does this by identifying "foreign invaders" and mobilizing the body's white blood cells to fight them. In some people, the immune system wrongly identifies a non-toxic substance as an invader, and the white blood cells overreact and do more damage to the body than the invader. In this way, the allergy response becomes a disease in itself. Allergies are a very common problem, affecting at least 2 out of every 10 Americans.



THE ALLERGIC REACTION

When a person with a hyper-alert immune system is exposed to an allergen, a series of events takes place:

• The body starts to produce a specific type of antibody, called IgE, to fight the allergen.
• The antibodies attach to a form of blood cell called a mast cell. Mast cells are plentiful in the airways, and in the GI tract where allergens tend to enter the body.
• The mast cells explode releasing a variety of chemicals including histamine, which causes most of the symptoms of an allergy, including itchiness or runny nose.
• If the allergen is in the air, the allergic reaction will occur in the eyes, nose, and lungs. If the allergen is ingested, the allergic reaction will occur in the mouth, stomach, and intestines. Sometimes enough chemicals are released from the mast cells to cause a reaction throughout the body, such as hives, decreased blood pressure, shock, or loss of consciousness. This severe type of reaction is called anaphylaxis and can be life-threatening.

Allergy symptoms can be categorized as mild, moderate, or severe (anaphylactic).

Mild reactions include those symptoms that affect a specific area of the body such as a rash or hives, itchy, watery eyes, and some congestion. Mild reactions do not spread to other parts of the body.

Moderate reactions include symptoms that spread to other parts of the body. These may include itchiness or difficulty breathing.

A severe reaction, called anaphylaxis, is a rare, life-threatening emergency in which the body's response to the allergen is sudden and affects the whole body. It may begin with the sudden onset of itching of the eyes or face and within minutes progress to more serious symptoms, including varying degrees of swellings that can make breathing and swallowing difficult, abdominal pain, cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea. Mental confusion or dizziness may also be symptoms, since anaphylaxis causes a quick drop in blood pressure.

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FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

COMMON ALLERGY SYMPTOMS

Nasal congestion.

Coughing.

Wheezing.

Itching.

Hives and other skin rashes.

Headache.

Fatigue.

Allergy symptoms can be categorized as mild, moderate, or severe.

MILD ALLERGIC REACTIONS

• Rash or hives.
• Itchy, watery eyes.
• Congestion.
• Mild reactions do not spread to other parts of the body.

MODERATE ALLERGIC REACTIONS

Moderate reactions can include symptoms that spread to other parts of the body, including:

• Itchiness.
• Difficulty breathing.

SEVERE ALLERGIC REACTION (Anaphylaxis)

Anaphylaxis is a rare, life-threatening emergency in which the body's response to the allergen is sudden and affects the whole body. It may begin with sudden itching of the eyes or face and within minutes progress to more serious symptoms, including:

• Varying degrees of swellings that can make breathing and swallowing difficult.
• Abdominal pain.
• Cramps.
• Vomiting.
• Diarrhea.
• Mental confusion or dizziness.

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CAUSES

Most allergies are inherited, which means they are passed on to children by their parents. People inherit a tendency to be allergic, although not to any specific allergen. When one parent is allergic, their child has a 50% chance of having allergies. That risk jumps to 75% if both parents have allergies.

ALLERGY TRIGGERS

There are a number of different allergy-causing substances. The most common include pollen, dust mites, mold, animal dander, insect stings, latex, and certain food and medication. If you have an allergy your symptoms can range from mild eye irritation and congestion to a more severe reaction causing swelling and difficulty breathing. And, if you have asthma, a reaction to any offending allergy-causing substance can worsen your asthma symptoms. But, there are steps you can take to prevent and treat allergy attacks when they occur.

The substances that provoke allergic responses are called allergens. Almost any substance can cause an allergic reaction in someone somewhere in the world, but the most common allergens include:

Pollen (trees, grass, flowers). Exposure to pollen can trigger hay fever, or seasonal allergies. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy, watery eyes. Treatments include over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines such as Benadryl, Clarinex, or Allegra, decongestants like Sudafed, nasal steroids like Beconase and Flonase, Nasalcrom and drugs that combine antihistamines and decongestants like Allegra-D, Claritin-D or Zyrtec. Allergy shots, also called immunotherapy, are also an option. Prevent hay fever symptoms by staying indoors when pollen counts are high, closing windows, and using air conditioning.

Dust (dust mites). Dust mites are microscopic organisms that live in house dust. House dust is a mixture of potentially allergenic materials including fibers from different fabrics, dander from animals, bacteria, mold or fungus spores, food particles, bits of plants, and others. Symptoms of dust mite allergy are similar to pollen allergy but often occur year round rather than just seasonally. Treatment may include medications such as antihistamines or decongestants. Prevent dust mite allergy by putting plastic covers over mattresses, using hypoallergenic pillows, washing sheets weekly in hot water and keeping all areas of the house, especially the bedroom, free of dust collecting stuffed animals, curtains, and carpet.

Certain metals (especially nickel). See Chemical Allergies and Chemical Poisoning for more information. Also see Aluminum Toxicity, Cadmium Toxicity, Copper Toxicity, Environmental Toxicity, Mercury Toxicity, Nickel Toxicity.

Latex. Rubber gloves are the most common offending product for people with a latex allergy, but a latex allergy can also be triggered by latex in condoms and certain medical devices. Symptoms of latex allergy include skin rash, hives, eye tearing and irritation, runny nose, sneezing, cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, and itching of the skin or nose. Allergic reactions to latex can range from skin redness and itching to a much more serious reaction, called anaphylaxis which can cause difficulty breathing, hives, or sudden gastrointestinal problems. Treatments include removal of the latex product. To relieve symptoms, antihistamines or epinephrine will be given. If you have a latex allergy, it is important for you to wear a MedicAlert bracelet and carry an emergency epinephrine kit at all times. To prevent a latex reaction, sensitive individuals should avoid products containing latex.

Cosmetics (eye makeup, face creams, hand lotion, perfumes). See Chemical Allergies and Chemical Poisoning for more information.

Animal hair & dander (cat, dog, rats, mice, rabbits, sheep, horses, cows). Proteins secreted by oil glands in an animal's skin, as well as the proteins present in an animal's saliva, can cause allergic reactions in some people. Allergies to animals can take two or more years to develop and symptoms may not subside until months after ending contact with the animal. Symptoms include sneezing, congestion, and itchy and watery eyes. It can also cause skin rash and itching. Treatments include avoiding exposure to animals that cause your allergies when possible. Medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, nasal steroids, or others may be helpful. Immunotherapy may be recommended if your symptoms are chronic. Prevent allergies to pet dander by removing the pet from the home, or at least the bedroom. Keep pets off upholstered furniture, wash the pet weekly.

Animal feathers (birds). Allergic reactions are similar to animal hair and dander.

Lanolin (lamb skin, wool). Allergic reactions are similar to animal hair and dander.

Cockroaches can cause similar symptoms as animals. Symptoms include sneezing, congestion, and itchy and watery eyes. They may also cause swelling of tissues, respiratory problems, skin itching and pain. Treatments include avoiding exposure to insects that cause your allergies when possible. Medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, nasal steroids, or others may be helpful. Immunotherapy may be recommended if your symptoms are chronic. Cockroach allergy can be prevented by keeping trash in closed containers and taking it out regularly.

Insects and insect venom (bees, hornets, wasps, spiders, mites). Insect Stings: Everyone who gets stung by an insect will have pain, swelling, and redness around the sting site. However, people who are allergic to stings can have a severe or even life-threatening reaction. Symptoms of insect sting allergy include extensive swelling and redness from the sting or bite that may last a week or more, nausea, fatigue, and low-grade fever. On rare occasions, insect stings may cause a full-body allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face, throat or mouth, wheezing or difficulty swallowing, restlessness and anxiety, rapid pulse, dizziness, or a sharp drop in blood pressure. For people who are severely allergic to insect stings, the medicine epinephrine should be administered soon after being stung to prevent the development of a life-threatening situation. Prevention is the best treatment. Minimize exposure to insects by not wearing brightly colored clothes and scented cosmetics and by keeping insecticide available, wearing shoes outdoors, and avoiding outdoor garbage. If you do get stung, remove the stinger. If you are at risk of anaphylaxis, get an epinephrine injection immediately. An oral antihistamine, like Benadryl, may be taken to reduce itching, swelling, and hives, and a pain-reliever may be taken and ice pack used to dull pain caused by the sting. Occasionally corticosteroid medicines are used to decrease swelling and inflammation. Allergy shots to prevent insect sting allergies are also available. Insects that cause allergic reactions include various bees, fire ants, yellow jackets, hornets, and wasps. See Bee Sting, Insect Bites, Insect Allergy, Snake Bite, Spider Bite for more information.

Plant Allergies. See Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, Poison Sumac for more information.

Common drugs (penicillin, aspirin, sulfa drugs). Some people develop allergies to certain medications, such as penicillin or aspirin. Symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening and can include hives, skin rash, itchy skin or eyes, congestion, and swelling in the mouth and throat. The best treatment of drug allergies is to avoid the offending drug altogether; however, when exposed, treatment with antihistamines or steroids is recommended. For coughing and lung congestion, drugs called bronchodilators may be prescribed to widen the airways. For more serious symptoms epinephrine may be needed.

Food additives (benzoic acid and sulfur dioxide). See Chemical Allergies, Allergies, Detection of Food Allergies, and Allergies, Sulfite for more information.

Chemicals found in soap and washing powder. See Chemical Allergies for more information.

Molds. Many people are allergic to molds. Molds are parasitic, microscopic fungi with spores that float in the air like pollen. They are living organisms, neither animal nor insect, that thrive where no other life form can. Molds are a common trigger for allergies and can be found in damp areas, living throughout the house - under the sink and in the bathroom, basement, refrigerator, and any other damp, dark place. They flourish in the air, in the soil, grass, on dead leaves in leaf piles, hay, mulch, or under mushrooms, and on other organic materials. Mold spores are carried by the wind and predominate in the summer and early fall. In warm climates they thrive all year round. Cutting grass, harvesting crops, or walking through tall vegetation can provoke a reaction. People repairing old furniture are also at risk. They may be destructive, but they are also beneficial. They help to make cheese, fertilizing gardens, and speed decaying of garbage and fallen leaves. Penicillin is made from molds. Symptoms of mold allergies can occur seasonally, especially in the summer and fall or year round if mold is in your home. Symptoms are like those of pollen and dust mite allergies and include sneezing, congestion, itchy and watery eyes, runny nose, and coughing. Treatments are the same as those for dust mites or pollen. Prevent mold allergies by avoiding activities that trigger symptoms, such as raking leaves. Keep windows and doors closed, and make sure moist places in the home, such as the basement and bathrooms, are well ventilated.

Foods. Food also can provoke allergic reactions. Some of the most common allergenic foods include chocolate, dairy products, eggs, shellfish, strawberries, wheat, and peanuts. Food allergies and food intolerances are not the same thing. A person with a food intolerance unable to digest and process that food correctly, usually due to a lack of a certain enzyme or enzymes. A food allergy, on the other hand, occurs when a person's immune system generates an antibody response to the ingested food. Food intolerance can lead to allergy, however, if particles of undigested food manage to enter the bloodstream and cause a reaction.

Some allergic reactions to food occur as soon as one starts chewing. Foods that are highly allergenic are easy to identify and eliminate from the diet. A delayed reaction is harder to detect. An irritating cough or tickle in the throat may be a sign of food allergy. A food allergic reaction usually occurs within minutes of eating the offending food and symptoms, which can include asthma, hives, runny nose, vomiting, diarrhea, itching and swelling in the area around the mouth, can be severe. The best treatment is to avoid the offending food altogether; but when exposed, treatment with antihistamines or steroids is recommended. In life-threatening situations, an epinephrine injection is needed to reverse symptoms. See Food Poisoning, Allergies, Detection of Food Allergies, and Allergies, Sulfite for more information.

No one knows why some people are allergic to certain substances. However, allergies do run in families, and it is also believed that babies that are not breast fed are more likely to develop allergies. There may be an emotional cause to the problem as well; stress and anger, especially if the immune system is not functioning properly, are frequent contributing factors.

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DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT TYPES OF ALLERGIES

Allergic Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Anaphylaxis

Asthma

Cosmetic Allergies

Drug allergies (Medication Allergies)

Eczema

Food Allergies

• Milk Allergies


• Egg Allergies


• Nut Allergies


• Fish Allergies


• Shellfish Allergies


• Soy Allergies


• Wheat Allergies


• Salicylate Allergies


• Sulfite Allergies

Mold Allergies

Hay Fever

Hives (Urticaria & Angioedema)

Insect Sting Allergies

Latex

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)

Poison Plant Allergies

Sinusitis

ALLERGY TREATMENTS

Health Care Exam

Skin Testing For Allergies

Blood Testing For Allergies

Elimination Diet & Food Challenge Test

Controlled Food Challenge

Food Allergy Self Test

Allergy Considerations

Herbal, Nutritional, & Holistic Treatment

Dietary & Lifestyle Recommendations

Allergy Resources & Further Education

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ALLERGIC CONJUNCTIVITIS (PINK EYE)

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Allergic Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

ANAPHYLAXIS

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic response that is marked by swelling, hives, lowered blood pressure, and dilated blood vessels. In severe cases, a person will go into shock. Blood pressure drops severely and swelling occurs in the bronchial tissues of the lungs, causing the person to choke and lose consciousness. If anaphylactic shock isn't treated immediately, it can be fatal.

This condition occurs when the immune system creates specific disease-fighting antibodies (called immunoglobulin E or IgE) toward a substance that is normally harmless, such as food. When you are first exposed to the substance, your body does not react, but it does produce the antibodies. When you are exposed to the substance again, the antibodies spring into action, releasing large amounts of a protein called histamine. Histamine causes the symptoms described above.

SYMPTOMS OF ANAPHYLAXIS

Anaphylaxis may begin with severe itching of the eyes or face and, within minutes, progress to more serious symptoms. These include swelling (which can cause swallowing and breathing difficulty), abdominal pain, cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, hives and angioedema (hives in the throat).

If you have symptoms of anaphylaxis, seek emergency medical attention immediately, as the condition can quickly result in an increased heart rate, sudden weakness, a drop in blood pressure, shock, and ultimately unconsciousness and death.

COMMON CAUSES OF ANAPHYLAXIS

Food is generally the most common cause of anaphylaxis. Common food triggers include peanuts, tree nuts (almond, walnut, hazel, Brazil, and cashews), shellfish (shrimp, lobster), dairy products, egg whites, and sesame seeds. Wasp or bee stings are also common causes of anaphylaxis.

Exercise can also trigger anaphylaxis if the activity occurs after eating allergy-provoking food.

Pollens and other inhaled allergens (allergy-causing substances) rarely cause anaphylaxis.

Some substances can cause reactions -- called anaphylactoid reactions -- that are similar to and just as serious as anaphylaxis, but do not involve immunoglobulin E antibodies. Common causes are fish, latex, and some medications, such as penicillin and codeine.

ANAPHYLAXIS DIAGNOSIS

Anaphylaxis is diagnosed based on its symptoms. People with a history of allergic reactions may be at greater risk for developing a severe reaction in the future.

Skin testing may help confirm the substances that cause severe allergic reactions. However, this type of test may not be recommended if you have reason to suspect that you will have an anaphylactic reaction to the substance.

ANAPHYLAXIS TREATMENT

There is only one effective treatment for anaphylaxis -- epinephrine by injection. Epinephrine is adrenaline and it rapidly reverses anaphylactic symptoms. It is typically given through an automatic injection device. The most common injection site is the thigh.

If you are near someone who is going into anaphylactic shock, call for professional medical help immediately. CPR and other lifesaving measures may be required.

In addition to epinephrine, treatment for shock includes intravenous fluids and medicines that support the actions of the heart and circulatory system. After a person in shock is stabilized, antihistamines may be given to further reduce symptoms.

BEING PREPARED

If you are allergic to bee stings or any substances that cause anaphylaxis, you should always be prepared. Ask your health care provider to prescribe an epinephrine injection kit and carry it with you at all times.

Also, it's important that you inform your health care provider of any drug allergies before undergoing any type of medical treatment, including dental care.

It is also a good idea to wear a MedicAlert bracelet or pendant, or carry a card that identifies your allergy. In cases of emergency, it could save your life.

ASTHMA

For most people, allergies are no more than another frustrating fact of life. But for people with asthma, or those who suffer severe allergic reactions, allergies can be life-threatening. In people with asthma, hypersensitivity to irritants results in mucus secretions and, in severe cases, inflammation, edema, and swelling of the bronchial tubes resulting in airway obstruction and breathing difficulties that can become severe very quickly. Asthma can be fatal if untreated with quick-acting medication inhalers and possibly the use of epinephrine and corticosteroidal medications for inflammation. Asthma is often a chronic condition that can last a person's lifetime and can have great influence on a person's ability to cope with daily activities and may greatly influence activity choices.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Asthma

COSMETIC ALLERGIES

(See Dermatitis for more detailed information.)

Products such as moisturizers, shampoos, deodorants, make-up, colognes, and other cosmetics have become part of our daily grooming habits. The American Academy of Dermatology reports the average adult uses at least seven different cosmetic products each day. Although cosmetics can help us feel more beautiful, they can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Certain ingredients used in cosmetics, such as fragrances and preservatives, can act as antigens, substances that trigger an allergic reaction.

SYMPTOMS OF COSMETIC REACTION

There are two reactions that can occur following exposure to cosmetics: irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is a condition marked by areas of inflammation (redness, itching, and swelling) that form after a substance comes into contact with your skin.

Irritant contact dermatitis: This is more common than allergic contact dermatitis and can occur in anyone. It develops when an irritating or harsh substance actually damages the skin. It usually begins as patches of itchy, scaly skin or a red rash, but can develop into blisters that ooze, especially if the skin is further irritated from scratching. Irritant contact dermatitis generally occurs at the site of contact with the irritating substance. Areas where the outermost layer of skin is thin, such as the eyelids, or where the skin is dry and cracked are more susceptible to irritant contact dermatitis.

Allergic contact dermatitis: This occurs in people who are allergic to a specific ingredient or ingredients in a product. Symptoms include redness, swelling, itching, and hive-like breakouts. In some cases, the skin becomes red and raw. The face, lips, eyes, ears, and neck are the most common sites for cosmetic allergies, although allergic dermatitis can develop in areas of the body that did not come into contact with the offending substance.

The time it takes for symptoms of irritant contact dermatitis to appear varies. For stronger irritants, such as perfumes, a reaction may occur within minutes or hours of exposure. However, it may take days or weeks of continued exposure to a weaker irritant, such as soap, before symptoms appear. True allergic reactions can take 7 to 10 days to appear. In some cases, a person can develop an allergic sensitivity to a product after years of use.

CAUSES OF COSMETIC REACTIONS

With irritant contact dermatitis, the skin breaks down when it comes into contact with harsh substances, most often chemicals that directly injure the outer layer of the skin, resulting in symptoms.

Allergic contact dermatitis occurs because the body's immune system is reacting against a specific substance (the allergen) that it considers foreign and harmful.

Serious allergic reactions associated with cosmetics are rare; however, it is not uncommon for a person to have a mild reaction or irritation to an ingredient in a cosmetic product. Studies suggest that up to 10% of the population will have some type of reaction to a cosmetic over the course of a lifetime. Reactions to cosmetics occur more often in women, most likely because women tend to use more cosmetic products than do men.

IF A REACTION OCCURS

If you have a reaction, stop using all cosmetics. When your symptoms are gone, start using them again, one product at a time. This may help you determine which product or products are responsible for the reaction. If you cannot identify the source of the reaction or if your symptoms do not go away after you stop using the cosmetics, consult your health care provider.

COSMETIC REACTIONS DIAGNOSIS

Reactions are diagnosed by the appearance of symptoms and your history of exposure to various cosmetic products. Because most adults use many cosmetic products, identifying the product responsible for the reaction may be difficult. If your doctor suspects allergic contact dermatitis, he or she may use a patch skin test to identify the substances to which you are allergic.

COSMETIC REACTIONS TREATMENT

Treatment generally involves avoiding the products causing the symptoms. Over-the-counter creams and ointments that contain cortisone, such as hydrocortisone (Cortisone 10) and hydrocortisone acetate (Cort-Aid), may be used to help control itching, swelling, and redness. In more severe cases, a prescription-strength medication may be needed to relieve symptoms. If blistered skin becomes infected, an antibiotic medication may also be needed.

COSMETIC REACTIONS PREVENTION

• Read the list of ingredients on all cosmetic products. If you find an ingredient that has caused a reaction in the past, don't use that product. Keep track of ingredients that have caused reactions, and look for products that do not contain those ingredients.
• When considering a new product, do a "mini-patch test" first to see if it causes a reaction. Put a sample of the product on your inner wrist or elbow and wait 24 hours to see if a reaction occurs.
• Keep it simple. Choose products with simple formulas. More ingredients mean more potential allergens. With fewer ingredients, it's also easier to pinpoint the source if you do have a reaction.
• Apply perfume to your clothes rather than your skin, and allow the perfume to dry before putting on the clothes.
• Be especially careful with makeup because it stays in contact with the skin for a long time. Look for products that are hypoallergenic, fragrance free, and non-comedogenic, although products with these labels may still cause reactions.

MAKING SENSE OF PRODUCT LABELS

To get the best benefit from cosmetics and skin care products, it's important to be aware of each product's ingredients and to look for ingredients that are known allergens for you. To make this easier, the FDA requires cosmetic manufacturers to list the ingredients on the product label. Ingredients are listed in descending order of amount. Keep in mind, however, that trade secrets and the ingredients of flavors and fragrances (considered trade secrets) do not have to be specifically listed.

Also, keep in mind that products labeled "unscented" or "fragrance free" may still contain small amounts of fragrances needed to cover the odor of other chemical ingredients. "Natural" generally means that the product includes ingredients extracted from plants or animal products rather than ingredients produced chemically. Products labeled "non-comedogenic" do not contain ingredients that commonly clog pores, which can lead to acne.

Labeling of cosmetics can be helpful when looking for specific ingredients, but be wary of certain product claims. For example, many products use the term "hypoallergenic," although there are no regulations or standards for use of this term. "Hypoallergenic" suggests that a product is less likely than another, similar product to cause an allergic reaction, but manufacturers are not required to prove this claim. In addition, products labeled "organic" are not less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Just remember: There is no cosmetic product that can guarantee never to produce an allergic reaction.

MORE SAFETY TIPS:

• Always use good personal hygiene. Be sure to clean your hands and face before applying make-up.
• Never share make-up.
• If you want to test a product in the store, ask for a new, unused applicator, and ask the salesperson to wipe the opening of the tester with alcohol.
• Keep cosmetic containers tightly closed, except when being used. Keep containers free of dust and dirt.
• Keep cosmetics away from heat and out of direct sunlight.
• Do not use eye make-up if you have an eye infection, such as conjunctivitis. Discard those products and use new ones when your infection is gone.
• Discard products if the color changes or they develop an odor. This may mean the preservatives in the products are no longer able to fight bacteria.
• If the consistency of a product changes, do not add water. Discard the product.
• Clean cosmetic brushes and applicators frequently.

DRUG ALLERGIES (Medication Allergies)

Many drugs can cause adverse side effects, and certain medicines can trigger allergic reactions. When a drug first enters the body, the immune system mistakenly responds by creating specific disease-fighting antibodies, called immunoglobulin E, or IgE antibodies, that recognize the drug as a foreign substance. When the drug is taken again, these antibodies spring into action, releasing large amounts of histamine in an attempt to expel the drug from the body.

SYMPTOMS OF DRUG ALLERGY

Symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening. Even in people who aren't allergic, many drugs can cause irritation, such as an upset stomach. But during an allergic reaction, the release of histamine can cause symptoms like hives, skin rash, itchy skin or eyes, congestion, and swelling in the mouth and throat.

A more severe reaction may include difficulty breathing, blueness of the skin, dizziness, fainting, anxiety, confusion, rapid pulse, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal problems.

COMMON DRUGS THAT CAUSE AN ALLERGIC REACTION

The most common drug associated with allergies is penicillin. Other antibiotics similar to penicillin can also trigger allergic reactions.

Other drugs commonly found to cause reactions include sulfa drugs, barbiturates, anticonvulsants, insulin, and iodine (found in many X-ray contrast dyes).

DRUG ALLERGY DIAGNOSIS

A health care provider diagnoses a drug allergy by carefully reviewing your medical history and symptoms. If your health care provider suspects that you are allergic to an antibiotic such as penicillin, he or she may do a skin test to confirm it. However, skin testing does not work for all drugs, and in some cases it could be dangerous. If you have had a severe, life-threatening reaction to a particular drug, your health care provider will simply rule out that drug as a treatment option for you. Conducting an allergy test to determine if the initial reaction was a "true" allergic response isn't worth the risk.

DRUG ALLERGY TREATMENT

The primary goal when treating drug allergies is symptom relief. Symptoms such as rash, hives and itching can often be controlled with antihistamines, and occasionally corticosteroids.

For coughing and lung congestion, drugs called bronchodilators may be prescribed to widen the airways. For more serious anaphylactic symptoms -- life-threatening reactions including difficulty breathing or loss of consciousness -- epinephrine may be given.

Occasionally, desensitization is used for penicillin allergy. This technique decreases your body's sensitivity to particular allergy-causing agents. Tiny amounts of penicillin are injected periodically in increasingly larger amounts until your immune system learns to tolerate the drug.

If you are severely allergic to certain antibiotics, there are alternative antibiotics your health care provider can prescribe.

BEING PREPARED

If you have a drug allergy, you should always inform your health care provider before undergoing any type of treatment, including dental care. It is also a good idea to wear a MedicAlert bracelet or pendant, or carry a card that identifies your drug allergy. In cases of emergency, it could save your life.

ECZEMA (Dermatitis)

(See Dermatitis for more information.)

Eczema is term for a group of medical conditions that cause the skin to become inflamed or irritated.

The most common type of eczema is known as atopic dermatitis, or atopic eczema. Atopic dermatitis is the form of eczema caused by allergies. It affects about 10% to 20% of infants and about 3% of adults and children in the U.S. Most infants who develop the condition outgrow it by their second birthday, while some people continue to experience symptoms on and off throughout life. But, with proper treatment, the disease can be controlled in the majority of sufferers.

ECZEMA SYMPTOMS

No matter which part of the skin is affected, eczema is almost always itchy. Sometimes the itching will start before the rash appears, but when it does the rash most commonly occurs on the face, knees, hands, or feet, but may also affect other areas.

Affected areas usually appear very dry, thickened, or scaly. In fair-skinned people, these areas may initially appear reddish and then turn brown. Among darker-skinned people, eczema can affect pigmentation, making the affected area lighter or darker.

In infants, the itchy rash can produce an oozing, crusting condition that occurs mainly on the face and scalp, but patches may appear anywhere.

CAUSES OF ECZEMA

The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it's thought to be linked to an overactive response by the body's immune system to an irritant. It is this response that causes the symptoms of the disease.

In addition, eczema is commonly found in families with a history of other allergies or asthma.

Some people may suffer "flare-ups" of the itchy rash in response to certain substances or conditions. For some, coming into contact with rough or coarse materials may cause the skin to become itchy. For others, feeling too hot or too cold, exposure to certain household products like soap or detergent, or coming into contact with animal dander may cause an outbreak. Upper respiratory infections or colds may also be triggers. Stress may cause the condition to worsen.

Although there is no cure, most people can effectively manage their disease with medical treatment and by avoiding irritants. The condition is not contagious and can't be spread from person to person.

ECZEMA DIAGNOSIS

A pediatrician, dermatologist, or your primary care provider can make a diagnosis of eczema. Since many people with eczema also suffer from allergies, your health care provider may perform allergy tests to determine possible irritants or triggers, especially among children.

ECZEMA TREATMENT

The goal of treatment is to relieve and prevent itching, which can lead to infection. Since the disease makes skin dry and itchy, lotions and creams are recommended to keep the skin moist. These solutions are usually applied when the skin is damp, such as after bathing, to help the skin retain moisture. Cold compresses may also be used to relieve itching.

Over-the-counter or prescription creams and ointments containing corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, are often prescribed to reduce inflammation. For severe cases, your health care provider may prescribe oral corticosteroids. In addition, if the affected area becomes infected, your health care provider may prescribe antibiotics to kill the infection-causing bacteria.

Other treatments include antihistamines to reduce severe itching, tar treatments (chemicals designed to reduce itching), phototherapy (therapy using ultraviolet light applied to the skin), and the drug cyclosporine A for people whose condition doesn't respond to other treatments.

In addition, the FDA recently approved the first of a new class of drugs known as topical immunomodulators (TIMs) for the treatment of moderate-to-severe eczema. The drugs work by altering the immune system response to prevent flare-ups.

PREVENTION OF ECZEMA OUTBREAKS

Eczema outbreaks can usually be avoided or the severity lessened by following these simple tips.
• Moisturize frequently.
• Avoid sudden changes in temperature or humidity.
• Avoid sweating or overheating.
• Reduce stress.
• Avoid scratchy materials, such as wool.
• Avoid harsh soaps, detergents, and solvents.
• Avoid environmental factors that trigger allergies (for example, pollen, mold, dust mites, and animal dander).
• Be aware of any foods that may cause an outbreak and avoid those foods.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Eczema

FOOD ALLERGIES

PROBLEM FOODS: ALLERGY OR INTOLERANCE

A food allergy is an immune system response. It occurs when the body mistakes an ingredient in food - usually a protein - as harmful and creates a defense system (antibodies) to fight it. Allergy symptoms develop when the antibodies are battling the "invading" food. The most common food allergies in adults are shellfish, peanuts, fish, and eggs. The most common food allergies in children are milk, soy products, peanuts, and shellfish.

Food intolerance is a digestive system response rather than an immune system response. It occurs when something in food irritates a person's digestive system or when a person is unable to properly digest, or breakdown, the food. Intolerance to lactose, which is found in milk and other dairy products, is the most common food intolerance.

SYMPTOMS OF FOOD ALLERGY

Symptoms of a food allergy can range from mild to severe, and the amount of food necessary to trigger a reaction varies from person to person. Symptoms of food allergy may include:

• Rash or hives.
• Nausea.
• Stomach pain.
• Diarrhea.
• Itchy skin.
• Shortness of breath.
• Chest pain.
• Swelling of the airways to the lungs.
• Anaphylaxis.

SYMPTOMS OF FOOD INTOLERANCE

• Nausea.
• Stomach pain.
• Gas, cramps, or bloating.
• Vomiting.
• Heartburn.
• Diarrhea.
• Headaches.
• Irritability or nervousness.

Food allergies affect about 1% of adults and 7% of children, although some children outgrow their allergies. Food intolerances are much more common. In fact, nearly everyone at one time has had an unpleasant reaction to something they ate. Some people have specific food intolerances. Lactose intolerance, the most common food intolerance, affects about 10% of Americans.

CAUSES OF FOOD ALLERGIES & INTOLERANCES

Food allergies arise from sensitivity to chemical compounds (proteins) in food. Food allergies develop after you are exposed to a food protein that your body thinks is harmful. The first time you eat the food containing the protein, your immune system responds by creating specific disease-fighting antibodies (called immunoglobulin E or IgE). When you eat the food again, it triggers the release of IgE antibodies and other chemicals, including histamine, in an effort to expel the protein "invader" from your body. Histamine is a powerful chemical that can affect the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, skin or cardiovascular system.

As a result of this response, allergy symptoms occur. The allergy symptoms you have depend on where in the body the histamine is released. If it is released in the ears, nose, and throat, you may have an itchy nose and mouth, or trouble breathing or swallowing. If histamine is released in the skin, you may develop hives or a rash. If histamine is released in the gastrointestinal tract, you likely will develop stomach pains, cramps, or diarrhea. Many people experience a combination of symptoms as the food is eaten and digested.

Food allergies often run in families, suggesting that the condition can be inherited.

There are many factors that may contribute to food intolerance. In some cases, as with lactose intolerance, the person lacks the chemicals, called enzymes, necessary to properly digest certain proteins found in food. Also common are intolerances to some chemical ingredients added to food to provide color, enhance taste, and protect against the growth of bacteria. These ingredients include various dyes and monosodium glutamate (MSG), a flavor enhancer.

Substances called sulfites, which may occur naturally, as in red wines, or may be added to prevent the growth of mold, also are a source of intolerance for some people. The FDA has banned the use of spray-on sulfates to preserve fruits and vegetables, but sulfates are still found naturally in some foods. Salicylates are a group of plant chemicals found naturally in many fruits, vegetables, nuts, coffee, juices, beer, and wine. Aspirin also is a compound of the salicylate family. Foods containing salicylates may trigger symptoms in people who are sensitive to aspirin. Of course, any food consumed in excessive quantities can cause digestive symptoms.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A FOOD ALLERGY & INTOLERANCE

Food allergies can be triggered by even a small amount of the food and occur every time the food is consumed. People with food allergies are generally advised to avoid the offending foods completely. On the other hand, food intolerances often are dose related; people with food intolerance may not have symptoms unless they eat a large portion of the food or eat the food frequently. For example, a person with lactose intolerance may be able to drink milk in coffee or a single glass of milk, but becomes sick if he or she drinks several glasses of milk. Food allergies and intolerances also are different from food poisoning, which generally results from spoiled or tainted food and affects more than one person eating the food. Your health care provider can help determine if you have an allergy or intolerance, and establish a plan to help control your symptoms.

FOOD INTOLERANCE DIAGNOSIS

Most food intolerances are found through trial and error to determine which food or foods cause symptoms. You may be asked to keep a food diary to record what you eat and when you get symptoms, and then look for common factors.

Another way to identify problem foods is to go on an elimination diet. This involves completely eliminating any suspect foods from your diet until you are symptom-free. You then begin to reintroduce the foods, one at a time. This can help you pinpoint which foods cause symptoms. Seek the advice of your health care provider or a registered dietitian before beginning an elimination diet to be sure your diet provides adequate nutrition.

FOOD INTOLERANCE TREATMENT

Treatment is based on avoiding or reducing your intake of problem foods and treating symptoms when they arise.

FOOD INTOLERANCE PREVENTION

Taking a few simple steps can help you prevent the symptoms associated with food intolerance.

• Learn which foods in which amounts cause you to have symptoms, and limit your intake to amounts you can handle.
• When you dine out, ask your server about how your meal will be prepared. Some meals may contain foods you cannot tolerate, and that may not be evident from the description on the menu.
• Learn to read food labels and check the ingredients for problem foods. Don't forget to check condiments and seasonings. They may contain MSG or another additive that can lead to symptoms.

LIVING WITH A FOOD ALLERGY

A food allergy is caused when the body's immune system mistakes an ingredient in food, usually a protein, as harmful and creates a defense system (antibodies) to fight it. An allergic reaction occurs when the antibodies battle the "invading" food. Although a person could have an allergy to almost any food, the following foods account for almost 90% of all food-related allergic reactions:

• Milk.
• Eggs.
• Peanuts.
• Tree nuts, such as cashews and walnuts.
• Fish.
• Shellfish.
• Soy.
• Wheat.

Strictly avoiding your trigger foods is the only way to prevent a reaction and maintain control over your food allergy. To make sure you eat a well-balanced diet while avoiding your triggers, talk to a registered dietician. Here are some tips to get your started.

• Work with your health care provider to develop a written action plan that outlines what to do in the case of a reaction. Make sure your friends and loved ones know what to do in an emergency.
• Always take worsening symptoms seriously.
• Diversify your diet by eating fruits and vegetables that are more exotic, especially if you are allergic to those that are more common.
• Invest in a cookbook with recipes that cater to your food allergy. In some cases, common food allergens can be easily removed or substituted in recipes.
• Be aware of any changes in how you feel after eating. Recognizing the onset of a reaction allows you to take quick action.
• Become Label Savvy. Read all food labels. Learn alternate names for foods to which you may be allergic. For example, if you are allergic to milk, you need to avoid products that list the following in their ingredients: casein, sodium caseinate, lactoglobulin, and nougat. If you are allergic to eggs, check the ingredients for egg whites and albumin.
• Don't take chances. If a food doesn't have a label and you don't know for certain what's in it, or if you're still uncertain after reading the label, contact the retailer or manufacturer, or just don't eat it.
• Always Be Prepared. Be prepared for an emergency. If you have severe allergies and have medication to prevent anaphylaxis, carry your medicine with you at all times in case you accidentally eat a trigger food. If you have an anaphylactic reaction, be sure someone knows to take you to the emergency room. An organization called The Food Allergy Initiative advises people with food allergies to carry a card that lists the foods to which they are allergic. The card can be given to the chef, manager, or server prior to ordering food at a restaurant.

TAKE NOTE OF HIDDEN SOURCES OF PROBLEM FOODS

Allergy-triggers can be found in the least suspecting foods, so keep the following points in mind.

• The same deli meat slicer used to cut meats is likely used to cut cheese products, too. When this is done, small particles of cheese can be transferred to sliced meats.
• To add flavor, some restaurants melt butter on steaks after they have been grilled.
• Casein, a milk protein, is sometimes used in canned meats.
• Eggs are sometimes used to create the foam topping on specialty coffee drinks.
• Some ethnic dishes, such as African, Chinese, Indonesian, Mexican, Thai, and Vietnamese foods, contain peanuts or are prepared in areas near peanuts.
• Some beanbags and hacky sacks are filled with crushed nutshells.
• Some labels use the term "may contain" to indicate the possible, but unintentional, presence of foods allergens in their products.

MILK ALLERGY: Living With a Milk Allergy - If you suffer from a milk allergy, strictly avoiding milk and food containing milk and milk products is the only way to prevent a reaction, which can include bloating, abdominal cramps, flatulence, diarrhea, or constipation. But, it is not always easy to avoid these foods since many unsuspecting products contain milk or milk products. Always check the label ingredients before you use a product. In addition, check the label each time you use the product. Manufacturers occasionally change recipes, and a trigger food may be added to the new recipe. Here are some examples of milk products and foods that may contain milk along with a list of milk substitutes.

Milk/Dairy Products	Milk and milk solids Non-fat, skim milk, or powdered milk Buttermilk Evaporated milk Yogurt Cream, cream cheese, sour cream Cheese, cheese powder, or cheese sauce Butter, butter fat, artificial butter flavor Curds Whey and whey products Cottage cheese
Milk/Dairy-Containing Ingredients	Lactalbumin Lactalbumin phosphate Lactoglobulin Casein Sodium caseinate Lactose
Milk/Dairy-Containing Foods	Au gratin foods Cake and cake mix Chocolate and cream candy Donuts Coffee creamers Creamed or scalloped foods Mashed potatoes Custard Nougat Ice cream and sherbet Malted milk Margarines (some, check the label) Pudding White sauces Salad dressings
Milk/Dairy Substitutes	*Soy milk Rice milk Almond milk Non-dairy ice cream Non-dairy chocolate Non-dairy cheese Non-dairy yogurt Kosher foods labeled "parve" or "pareve."
	*Although soy milk is a popular alternative to cow's milk, it may also cause allergies.

Dairy products are an important source of calcium and Vitamin D, so it's important that you eat other foods rich in these nutrients, such as broccoli, spinach, and soy products. To ensure that you eat a well-balanced, healthy diet, talk to a registered dietician.

EGG ALLERGY: Living With an Egg Allergy - Egg allergy, especially to egg whites, is more common in children than in adults and reactions range from mild to severe. Mild reactions tend to involve the skin and gastrointestinal tracts. Severe allergy can be instantaneous. If you suffer from an egg allergy, strictly avoiding eggs and food containing egg and egg products is the only way to prevent a reaction. But, it is not always easy to avoid these foods since many unsuspecting products contain eggs. Always check the label ingredients before you use a product. In addition, check the label each time you use the product. Manufacturers occasionally change recipes, and a trigger food may be added to the new recipe. Also, keep in mind that some egg substitutes contain egg white. Examples of egg products and foods that may contain eggs include:

Egg Products	Eggs Egg whites Egg yolks Dried eggs or egg powder Egg solids
Egg-Containing Ingredients	Globulin Albumin Apovitellenin Livetin Ovalbumin Ovomucin Ovomuciod Ovovitellin Phosvitin
Egg-Containing Foods	Eggnog Bavarian creams Breaded foods (some) Cake Candy (some) Caesar salad dressing Cookies (especially chocolate chip) Creamed foods Cream pies Cream puffs Crepes Custard Doughnuts Egg rolls Egg noodles Frosting Hollandaise sauce Ice cream Mayonnaise Marshmallows Meat or fish cooked in batter Meringue Muffins Pretzels Pudding Simplesse (fat substitute) Soufflés Tartar sauce Waffles Some wines Anything fried or batter-fried

NUT ALLERGY: Living With a Nut Allergy - Allergic reaction to nuts can progress rapidly to anaphylaxis. Peanut allergy is responsible for more fatalities than any other type of allergy. If you suffer from a nut allergy, strictly avoiding nuts, including peanuts and tree nuts like cashews and walnuts, and food containing nuts is the only way to prevent a reaction. But, it is not always easy to avoid these foods since many unsuspecting products contain nuts. Always check the label ingredients before you use a product. In addition, check the label each time you use the product. Manufacturers occasionally change recipes, and a trigger food may be added to the new recipe. Also, keep in mind that many prepared foods, including baked goods, candy, and ethnic foods, can be contaminated with peanuts if products containing peanuts are prepared in the same place or by the same manufacturer. Always be prepared for this possibility and the risk of a reaction. Examples of peanut and tree-nut products and foods that may contain them, include:

Peanut Products	Cold-pressed or expressed peanut oil Peanut butter Peanut flour
Peanut-Containing Ingredients	Hydrolyzed plant protein Hydrolyzed vegetable protein
Tree Nuts	Almonds Brazil nuts Cashews Chestnuts Filberts Hazelnuts Hickory nuts Macadamia nuts Pecans Pine nuts Pistachios Walnuts
Tree Nut-Containing Ingredients	Marzipan / almond paste Nougat Artificial nuts Nut butters (such as cashew butter and almond butter) Nut oil Nut paste (such as almond paste) Nut extracts (such as almond extract)
Nut-Containing Foods	Ground nuts Mixed nuts Chex mix Artificial nuts Nougat African, Chinese, Thai, and other ethnic dishes Cookies, candy, pastries, and other baked goods Grain breads Ice cream, frozen desserts High-energy bars Cereals and granola Salad dressing Marzipan

Tree nuts are sometimes used in lotions and shampoos. Be sure to check labels of these products, as well as food labels.

FISH ALLERGY: Living With a Fish Allergy - If you suffer from a fish allergy, strictly avoiding fish and food containing fish products is the only way to prevent a reaction. If your doctor is able to identify exactly which type of fish causes your allergies, than you only need to eliminate that species of fish from your diet. For the majority of fish allergy sufferers, this is not an option and all fish must be avoided. Examples of foods containing fish include:

• Worcestershire sauce.
• Caesar salad.
• Caviar.
• Roe (fish eggs).
• Imitation seafood as is often used in sushi.
• It is wise to avoid seafood restaurants if you have a fish allergy. Even if you order a non-fish meal, your food may become contaminated with fish proteins from a spatula, cooking oil, or grill exposed to fish.

SHELLFISH ALLERGY: Living With a Shellfish Allergy - If you suffer from a shellfish allergy, strictly avoiding shellfish and food containing shellfish is the only way to prevent a reaction. If your health care provider is able to identify exactly which type of shellfish causes your allergies, than you only need to eliminate that type of shellfish from your diet. For the majority of shellfish allergy sufferers, however, this is not an option and all shellfish must be avoided. Examples of shellfish include:

• Abalone.
• Clams.
• Crab.
• Crawfish, crayfish.
• Lobster.
• Oysters.
• Scallops.
• Shrimp.
• Cockle, sea urchin.
• Mussels.

Be careful with fried foods. Some restaurants use the same oil to fry shrimp, chicken, and French fries. Also, keep in mind that imitation shellfish may still contain shellfish as many manufactures add shellfish for flavoring. Before you use it, read the label to be sure.

SOY ALLERGY: Living With a Soy Allergy - Soybeans are legumes. Other foods in the legume family include navy beans, kidney beans, string beans, black beans, pinto beans, chickpeas (garbanzo or chichi beans), lentils, carob, licorice, and peanuts. Many people are allergic to more than one legume. If your health care provider is unable to identify which soy product is causing your allergy, it is best to avoid them all. But, it is not always easy to avoid these foods since many unsuspecting products may contain soy. Soy allergy is more common in infants. The average age at which the allergy manifests is 3 months but the majority of infants outgrow it by the age of two. Although adults do suffer from soy allergy, it is rare. Symptoms of soy allergy are many and may include:

• Acne and other skin conditions, like eczema.
• Swelling.
• Nasal congestion.
• Anaphylaxis.
• Asthma.
• Canker sores or fever blisters.
• Colitis and other gastrointestinal problems, including diarrhea.
• Conjunctivitis.
• Shortness of breath.
• Fever, fatigue, weakness, and nausea.
• Low blood pressure.
• Itching.
• Hay fever.
• Hives.

Always check the label ingredients before you use a product. In addition, check the label each time you use the product. Manufacturers occasionally change recipes, and a trigger food may be added to the new recipe. Examples of soy products and foods that may contain soy include:

Soy Products	Soy flour Soy fruits Soy nuts Soy milk Soy sprouts Soybean granules or curds
Soy-Containing Ingredients	Soy protein Textured vegetable protein (TPV) Hydrolyzed plant protein Hydrolyzed soy protein Hydrolyzed vegetable protein Natural and artificial flavoring (may be soy based) Vegetable gum Vegetable starch
Soy-Containing Food	Miso Soy sauce Worcestershire sauce Tofu (as an ingredient, may indicate the presence of soy protein) Tamari Tempeh Vegetable broth Some cereals Some infant formula Baked goods

WHEAT ALLERGY: Living With a Wheat Allergy - Foods made with wheat are staples of the American diet; however, many people are allergic to proteins found in wheat, called gluten. If you are allergic to gluten strictly avoiding wheat and wheat products containing gluten is the only way to prevent a reaction, which can include stomach upset, eczema, hay fever, asthma, and even anaphylaxis. But, it is not always easy to avoid these foods since many unsuspecting products contain gluten. Always check the label ingredients before you use a product. Many processed foods, including ice cream and catsup, may contain wheat flour. In addition, check the label each time you use the product. Manufacturers occasionally change recipes, and a trigger food may be added to the new recipe. Many wheat products are now available "gluten free" and will say so on the label. Examples of wheat products and foods that may contain wheat include:

Wheat Products	Whole wheat or enriched flour High gluten flour High protein flour Bran Farina Graham flour Bulgur Durum Semolina Wheat malt Wheat starch Modified starch Starch
Wheat-Containing Ingredients	Gluten Gelatinized starch Hydrolyzed vegetable protein Vital gluten Wheat bran Wheat germ Wheat gluten Vegetable gum Vegetable starch
Wheat-Containing Food	Many breads, cookies, cakes, and other baked goods Bread crumbs Crackers Many cereals Acker meal Couscous Cracker meal Pasta Spelt

Substitutes for wheat include corn, potato, barley, oat, soy, and rice flours and arrowroot starch.

SALICYLATE ALLERGY: Salicylates are chemicals found naturally in plants and are a major ingredient of aspirin and other pain-relieving medications. They are also found in many fruits and vegetables, as well as many common health and beauty products. Some people have a low level of tolerance to salicylates and may have reactions if more than a small amount is consumed at one time. Symptoms of salicylate sensitivity vary but may include:

• Asthma-like symptoms, such as trouble breathing and wheezing.
• Headaches.
• Nasal congestion.
• Changes in skin color.
• Itching, skin rash or hives.
• Swelling of the hands, feet, and face.
• Stomach pain.
• In severe cases, salicylate sensitivity can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction involving a severe drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and organ system failure. Avoiding products that contain salicylates is the best defense against a reaction.

Salicylates can be found in food, medication, and cosmetics. Some examples of salicylate-containing substances include:

Foods That Contain Salicylates	Fruits such as apples, avocados, blueberries, dates, kiwi fruit, peaches, raspberries, figs, grapes, plums, strawberries, cherries, grapefruit, and prunes. Vegetables such as alfalfa, cauliflower, cucumbers, mushrooms, radishes, broad beans, eggplant, spinach, zucchini, broccoli, and peppers. Processed cheese. Herbs, spices, and condiments such as dry spices and powders, tomato pastes and sauces, vinegar, and soy sauce, jams and jellies. Beverages such as instant coffee, wine, beer, and other alcoholic drinks except gin and scotch, orange juice, apple cider, regular and herbal tea, beer, rum, and sherry. Nuts such as pine nuts, peanuts, pistachios, and almonds. Some candies, such as peppermints, licorice, and mint-flavored gum and breath mints. Ice cream, gelatin.
Products That May Contain Salicylates	Fragrances and perfumes. Shampoos and conditioners. Herbal remedies. Cosmetics such as lipsticks, lotions, and skin cleansers. Mouthwash and mint-flavored toothpaste. Shaving cream. Sunscreens or tanning lotions. Muscle pain creams. Alka Seltzer.
Salicylate-Containing Ingredients	Aspirin. Acetyl salicylic acid. Artificial food coloring and flavoring. Benzoates. Beta-hydroxy acid. Magnesium salicylate. Menthol. Mint. Salicylic acid. Peppermint. Phenyl ethyl salicylate. Sodium salicylate. Spearmint.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Chemical Allergies

SULFITE SENSITIVITY: Sulfites are a group of sulfur-based compounds that may occur naturally or may be added to food as an enhancer and preservative. The FDA estimates that one out of 100 people is sensitive to the compounds. A person can develop sensitivity to sulfites at any time in life, and the cause of sensitivity is unknown. For a person who is sensitive to sulfites, a reaction can be mild or life threatening. In 1986, the FDA banned the use of sulfites on fruits and vegetables that are eaten raw, such as lettuce or apples, as well as on fresh meat and poultry products. Regulations also require manufacturers who use sulfites in their processed products to list the compounds on their product labels. Although sulfites are no longer used on most fresh foods, they still can be found in a variety of cooked and processed foods. They also occur naturally in the process of making wine and beer. Avoiding foods that contain or are likely to contain sulfites is the only way to prevent a reaction. If you are sensitive to sulfites, be sure to read the labels on all food items. When eating out, ask the chef or server if sulfites are used or added to food before or during preparation. Examples of foods that may contain sulfites include:

• Baked goods.
• Soup mixes.
• Jams.
• Canned vegetables.
• Pickled foods.
• Gravies.
• Dried fruit.
• Potato chips.
• Trail mix.
• Alcohol, beer, and wine.
• Vegetable juices.
• Canned or frozen fruits and vegetables.
• Sparkling grape juice.
• Apple cider.
• Bottled lemon juice and lime juice.
• Tea.
• Many condiments.
• Molasses.
• Fresh or frozen shrimp.
• Guacamole.
• Maraschino cherries
• Dehydrated, pre-cut, or peeled potatoes.

Sulfite-containing ingredients to look for on food labels include:

• Sulfur dioxide.
• Potassium bisulfite or potassium metabisulfite.
• Sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite or sodium sulfite.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Allergies, Sulfite

MOLD ALLERGY: Mold is an organism that is present is most places, outdoors and indoors. Mold is a type of fungus that works to break down dead material and return nutrients to the environment. Mold grows by digesting plant or animal matter, such as leaves, wood, paper, dirt, and food. Mold spreads by releasing tiny, lightweight spores that travel through the air. Mold grows quickly in moist dark spaces, such as basements, garbage cans, and piles of rotting leaves. On food, mold often is visible on the food's surface, such as the fuzzy green spots that appear on bread. However, molds also have branches and roots. As it grows, the mold's roots can penetrate deep inside the food, where it cannot be seen. All of us are exposed to some mold every day with no bad effects. We may breathe in mold spores that are present in the air or eat foods in which mold has begun to grow. People with mold allergies, however, may have a reaction if exposed to too much of the fungus. Symptoms of a mold reaction are those typical of many other allergies. They include:

• Wheezing.
• Stuffy or runny nose.
• Itchy, watery eyes.
• Rash or hives.

If you have a mold allergy, avoiding all exposure to mold may not be possible. However, you can reduce your risk of reaction by choosing your foods carefully. Check all foods for signs of mold before you eat them. However, do not smell foods to see if they are spoiled. Inhaling mold spores can set off an allergic reaction. In addition, you can avoid foods that are more likely to contain mold or other fungi, such as mushrooms and yeast. Common food sources of mold include:

• Cheese.
• Mushrooms.
• Vinegar and foods containing vinegar, such as salad dressing, catsup, and pickles.
• Sour cream, sour milk, and buttermilk.
• Beer, wine, brandy, gin, vodka, rum, and whiskey.
• Ginger ale and root beer.
• Meat or fish more than 24 hours old.
• Sour breads, such as pumpernickel, and other food made with yeast.
• Sauerkraut.
• Pickled and smoked meats and fish.
• Dried fruits such as dates, prunes, figs, and raisins.
• Soy sauce, tofu.
• Tea.
• Chocolate.
• Dried spices.

HAY FEVER: Hay fever (acute seasonal allergic rhinitis) is the most common type of seasonal allergy. Its symptoms closely resemble those of the common cold, but there are some differences. Cold symptoms generally disappear in a week to 10 days, but allergic rhinitis can linger miserably for weeks, or even months. The nasal discharge caused by a cold is generally watery at the very beginning, but then turns thick and yellow, while the allergic reaction produces a consistently thin and clear discharge from the nose, in addition to itchy eyes, mouth, and skin. While it is difficult to determine the cause of the common cold, in most cases the cause of an allergy can be identified. This is one heartening fact for allergy sufferers. To make matters worse, due to the consistently warmer and wetter winters occurring in most parts of the world in recent years, seasonal allergy sufferers can count on longer periods of misery. Most hay fever symptoms are treated with the use of antihistamines, which help to block the histamine reaction in the body caused by an allergen.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Hay Fever

HIVES Urticaria and Angioedema): URTICARIA, also known as hives, is an outbreak of swollen, pale red bumps or patches (wheals) on the skin that appear suddenly, either as a result of the body's adverse reaction to certain allergens, or for unknown reasons. Hives usually cause itching, but may also burn or sting. They can appear anywhere on the body, including the face, lips, tongue, throat, or ears. Hives vary in size (from a pencil eraser to a dinner plate), and may join together to form larger areas known as plaques. They can last for hours, or up to three to four days before fading.

ANGIOEDEMA is similar to urticaria, but the swelling occurs beneath the skin instead of on the surface. Angioedema is characterized by deep swelling around the eyes and lips and sometimes of the genitals, hands, and feet. It generally lasts longer than urticaria, but the swelling usually goes away in less than 24 hours. Occasionally, severe, prolonged tissue swelling can be disfiguring. Rarely, angioedema of the throat, tongue, or lungs can block the airways, causing difficulty breathing. This may become life threatening.

Hives and angioedema form when, in response to histamine, blood plasma leaks out of small blood vessels in the skin. Histamine is a chemical released from specialized cells along the skin's blood vessels. Allergic reactions, chemicals in foods, insect stings, sunlight exposure, or medicines can all cause histamine release. Sometimes it's impossible to find out exactly why hives have formed. There are several different types of hives, including:

ACUTE URTICARIA: Hives lasting less than six weeks. The most common causes are foods, medicines, latex, or infections. Insect bites and internal disease may also be responsible. The most common foods that cause hives are nuts, chocolate, fish, tomatoes, eggs, fresh berries, and milk. Fresh foods cause hives more often than cooked foods. Certain food additives and preservatives may also be to blame. Medicines that can cause hives and angioedema include aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, high blood pressure medications (ACE inhibitors), or pain killers such as codeine.

CHRONIC URTICARIA & ANGIOEDEMA: Hives lasting more than six weeks. The cause of this type of hives is usually more difficult to identify than those causing acute urticaria. For more than 87% of people with chronic urticaria, the cause is unknown. Chronic urticaria and angioedema can affect other internal organs such as the lungs, muscles and gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms include muscle soreness, shortness of breath, vomiting, and diarrhea.

PHYSICAL URTICARIA: Hives caused by direct physical stimulation of the skin (for example, cold, heat, sun exposure, vibration, pressure, sweating, and exercise). The hives usually occur right where the skin was stimulated and rarely appear anywhere else. Most of the hives appear within one hour after exposure.
Dermatographism: Hives that form after firmly stroking or scratching the skin. These hives can also occur along with other forms of urticaria. This is considered a normal skin condition.

HIVES & ANGIOEDEMA DIAGNOSIS

Your health care provider will need to ask many questions in an attempt to find the possible cause. Since there are no specific tests for hives (or the associated swelling of angioedema) testing will depend on your medical history and a thorough examination by your health care provider or dermatologist. Skin tests may be performed to determine the substance that you are allergic to. Routine blood tests are done to determine if a system-wide illness is present.

HIVES & ANGIOEDEMA TREATMENT

The best treatment for hives and associated swelling is to identify and remove the trigger, but this is not an easy task. Antihistamines are usually prescribed by your health care provider or dermatologist to provide relief from symptoms. Antihistamines work best if taken on a regular schedule to prevent hives from forming in the first place. Chronic hives may be treated with antihistamines or a combination of medications. When antihistamines don't provide relief, oral corticosteroids may be prescribed. For severe hive or angioedema outbreaks, an injection of epinephrine (adrenaline) or a cortisone medication may be needed.

HIVES MANAGEMENT

While you're waiting for the hives and swelling to disappear, here are some tips:

• Avoid hot water; use lukewarm water instead.
• Use gentle, mild soap.
• Apply cool compresses or wet cloths to the affected areas.
• Try to work and sleep in a cool room.
• Wear loose-fitting lightweight clothes.

If hives or angioedema occur with any of the following symptoms, contact your health care provider right away:

• Dizziness Wheezing.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Tightness in the chest.
• Swelling of the tongue, lips, or face.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Hives

INSECT STING ALLERGY: Bee, wasp, yellow jacket, hornet, or fire ant stings most often trigger allergic reactions. However, most people are not allergic to insect stings and may mistake a normal sting reaction for an allergic reaction. By knowing the difference, you can prevent unnecessary worry and visits to the health care provider. The severity of an insect sting reaction varies from person to person. There are three types of reactions - normal, localized, and allergic:

• A normal reaction will result in pain, swelling, and redness around the sting site.
• A large local reaction will result in swelling that extends beyond the sting site. For example, a person stung on the ankle may have swelling of the entire leg. While it often looks alarming, it is generally no more serious than a normal reaction.
• The most serious reaction to an insect sting is an allergic one (described below). This condition requires immediate medical attention.

INSECT STING ALLERGY SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (called an anaphylactic reaction) may include one or more of the following:

• Difficulty breathing.
• Hives that appear as a red, itchy rash and spread to areas beyond the sting.
• Swelling of the face, throat, or mouth tissue.
• Wheezing or difficulty swallowing.
• Restlessness and anxiety.
• Rapid pulse.
• Dizziness or a sharp drop in blood pressure.
• Although severe allergic reactions are not that common, they can lead to shock, cardiac arrest, and unconsciousness in 10 minutes or less. This type of reaction can occur within minutes after a sting and can be fatal. Get emergency treatment as soon as possible.

A mild allergic reaction to an insect sting may cause one or more of the following symptoms at the site of the sting:

• Pain.
• Redness.
• Pimple-like spots.
• Mild to moderate swelling.
• Warmth at the sting site.
• Itching.

People who have experienced an allergic reaction to an insect sting have a 60% chance of a similar or worse reaction if they are stung again. About 2 million Americans are allergic to the venom of stinging insects. Many of these individuals are at risk for life-threatening allergic reactions. Approximately 50 deaths each year in the U.S. are attributed to allergic reactions to insect stings.

TREATMENT FOR NORMAL OR LOCALIZED REACTIONS

• First, if stung on the hand, remove any rings from your fingers immediately.
• If stung by a bee, the bee usually leaves a sac of venom and a stinger in your skin. If the sac is still in the skin, gently scrape it out with a fingernail or a stiff-edged object like a credit card. Do not pull on the stinger -- this will cause the release of more venom into the skin.
• Wash the stung area with soap and water, then apply an antiseptic.
• Apply a soothing ointment, like a hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion, and cover the area with a dry, sterile bandage.
• If swelling is a problem, apply an ice pack or cold compress to the area.
• Take an over-the-counter oral antihistamine to reduce itching, swelling, and hives. However, this medication should not be given to children under 3 years of age or to pregnant women without prior approval from a health care provider or her midwife.
• To relieve pain, take aspirin or an aspirin-substitute. Do not give aspirin to a child or teenager. It has been associated with a rare, but serious, liver and brain disorder called Reye's syndrome in these age groups. In general, pregnant women should consult their midwives or health care providers before taking any over-the-counter medicine. Also, carefully read the warning label on any medicines before taking it. Parents of children and people with medical conditions should consult a pharmacist if they have questions about a medicine's use.

ALLERGIC REACTIONS TREATMENT

An allergic reaction is treated with epinephrine (adrenaline), either self-injected or administered by a health care provider. Usually this injection will stop the development of severe allergic reaction. In some cases, intravenous fluids, oxygen, and other treatments are also necessary. Once stabilized, you are sometimes required to stay overnight at the hospital under close observation. People who have had previous allergic reactions must remember to carry epinephrine with them wherever they go. Also, because one dose may not be enough to reverse the reaction, immediate medical attention following an insect sting is still recommended.

INSECT STING PREVENTION

You can lessen your chances of an insect sting by taking certain precautionary measures:

• Learn to recognize insect nests and avoid them. Yellow jackets nest in the ground in dirt mounds or old logs and walls. Honeybees nest in beehives. Hornets and wasps nest in bushes, trees, and on buildings.
• Wear shoes and socks when outdoors.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes when in country or wooded areas.
• Avoid wearing perfumes or brightly colored clothing. They tend to attract insects.
• If you have severe allergies, you should never be alone when hiking, boating, swimming, golfing, or otherwise involved outdoors, as you may need prompt medical treatment if stung.
• Use insect screens on windows and doors at home. Use insect repellants. Spray bedrooms with aerosols containing insecticide before going to bed.
• Spray garbage cans regularly with insecticide and keep the cans covered.
• Avoid or remove insect-attracting plants and vines growing in and around the house.
• A severely allergic person should always wear a MedicAlert bracelet and keep a self-care kit (described below) on hand for emergency use in the case of severe symptoms. For more information on where to get a MedicAlert bracelet, you can call 1-800-ID-ALERT.

Epinephrine self-administration kits are important for you to use immediately after being stung, before you get to a health care provider for treatment. The two most common have the brand names Ana-Kit and Epi-Pen. However, these kits should not be used as a substitute for medical intervention; you should still see a health care provider after being stung. Epinephrine alone is not always enough to reverse serious allergic sting reactions and may cause serious side effects in some people with heart conditions or people who are taking certain medicines. You will need a prescription from your health care provider to purchase one of these kits. Before using, be sure to let your health care provider know about any medicine you are taking to prevent drug interactions. Epinephrine can also be purchased in a vial and used with a insulin syringe to inject a dosage. This method is the one I prefer, since the needle on the Epi-Pen is considerably larger than an insulin needle and thus more painful, and I can quickly repeat the dosage if necessary. The Epi-Pen is also quite expensive as compared to purchasing the vial of epinephrine and insulin syringes and the Epi-Pen can only be used once.

PREVENTING AN ALLERGIC REACTION

Allergic reactions to insect stings may possibly be prevented with allergy shots. The treatment is 97% effective in preventing future reactions and involves injecting gradually increasing doses of venom that stimulate your immune system to become resistant to a future allergic reaction. If you've had an allergic reaction, it's important to talk to an allergist, a health care provider who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic disease. Based on your history and test results, the allergist will determine if you are a candidate for immunotherapy treatment.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Insect Allergy

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Insect Bite

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Bee Sting

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Snake Bite

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Spider Bite

LATEX ALLERGY: Latex, also known as rubber or natural latex, is derived from the milky sap of the rubber tree, found in Africa and Southeast Asia. Latex allergy is an allergic reaction to substances in natural latex. Rubber gloves are the main source of allergic reactions, although latex is also used in other products such as condoms and medical devices. The exact cause of latex allergy is unknown, but it is thought that repeated exposure to latex and rubber products may induce symptoms. About 5% to 10% of health care workers have some form of allergy to latex. Other than health care workers, people at increased risk for developing latex allergy include those who have:

• A defect in their bone marrow cells.
• A deformed bladder or urinary tract.
• A history of multiple surgeries.
• A urinary catheter, which has a rubber tip.
• Allergy, asthma or eczema.
• Food allergies to bananas, avocados, kiwis, or chestnuts.
• Rubber industry workers and condom users are also at increased risk for developing a latex allergy.

Routes of exposure include:

• Through the skin, as occurs when latex gloves are worn.
• Through mucous membranes, such as the eyes, mouth, vagina, and rectum.
• Through the thin skin in the mouth, vagina, or rectum, as occurs when condoms are used.
• Through inhalation. Rubber gloves contain a powder that can be inhaled.
• Through the blood, as occurs when medical devices containing rubber are used.

There are three types of latex reactions:

• Irritant contact dermatitis. The least threatening type of latex reaction, classified as a non-allergenic skin reaction. It usually occurs as a result of repeated exposure to chemicals in latex gloves and results in dryness, itching, burning, scaling, and lesions of the skin.
• Allergic contact dermatitis. A delayed reaction to additives used in latex processing, which results in the same type of reactions as irritant contact dermatitis (dryness, itching, burning, scaling and lesions of the skin), but the reaction is more severe, spreads to more parts of the body and lasts longer.
• Immediate allergic reaction (latex hypersensitivity). The most serious reaction to latex. It can show up as rhinitis with hay fever-like symptoms, conjunctivitis (pink eye), cramps, hives and severe itching. Rarely, symptoms may progress to include rapid heartbeat, tremors, chest pain, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, anaphylactic shock, or potentially, death.

Allergic reactions to latex can range from skin redness and itching to more serious symptoms, such as hives or gastrointestinal problems. True allergic reactions to latex rarely progress to the life-threatening conditions such as low blood pressure, difficulty breathing or rapid heart rate. However, if left untreated, these conditions could potentially result in death.

If you experience severe symptoms, call your health care provider or 911 immediately, or go to the nearest emergency room.

LATEX ALLERGY DIAGNOSIS

A latex allergy is diagnosed in people who:

• Have experienced signs or symptoms of allergic reaction (skin rash, hives, eye tearing or irritation, wheezing, itching, difficulty breathing) when exposed to latex or natural rubber products.
• Do not have signs or symptoms of latex allergy but are known to be at risk for latex allergy and have a positive skin test to latex. Since the latex allergen used in the test is not readily available in the U.S., a blood test is sometimes performed to detect allergy-producing antibodies.
• Skin testing for latex allergy should only be done with the close supervision of an allergy specialist because of the risk of severe reactions.

LATEX ALLERGY TREATMENT

Reactions may be treated by removal of the latex product and drug treatment according to the type of symptoms developing. If the symptoms are irritant contact dermatitis, antihistamine and/or corticosteroid medicines may be enough to treat symptoms. Severe reactions should be treated with epinephrine, intravenous fluids, and other support by hospital or emergency personnel.

If you have latex allergy, it is important for you to wear a MedicAlert bracelet and carry an emergency epinephrine syringe.

There is no cure for latex allergy, so the best treatment for this condition is prevention. If you're at risk for serious reactions to latex, you must make many lifestyle changes to ensure a latex-safe environment. While it may require leading a more protected and isolated life, you can continue certain activities when precautions are taken. Here are some tips:

• Use basic latex alternatives (see below).
• Keep all shoes, boots, and sneakers in covered containers.
• Never travel alone. Always travel with another person, especially to your health care appointments where you might accidentally come into contact with latex.
• Plan in advance to ensure latex avoidance at any family function or party.
• Because a latex allergy becomes worse with each exposure, you should avoid products containing latex. While it is difficult to obtain full and accurate information on the latex content of products, you may become better informed by checking with suppliers before buying a product. The following list highlights some (but not all) of the latex products you should avoid in the home:
  • Rubber sink stoppers and sink mats.
  • Rubber or rubber-grip utensils.
  • Rubber electrical cords or water hoses.
  • Bath mats and floor rugs that have rubber backing.
  • Toothbrushes with rubber grips or handles.
  • Rubber tub toys.
  • Sanitary napkins (that contain rubber).
  • Condoms/diaphragms.
  • Diapers that contain rubber.
  • Adult undergarments that contain rubber.
  • Waterproof bed pads containing rubber.
  • Undergarments, socks and other clothing with elastic bands that contain rubber.
  • Adhesives such as glue, paste, art supplies, glue pens.
  • Older Barbie dolls and other dolls that are made of rubber.
  • Rubber bands, mouse and keyboard cords, desktop and chair pads, rubber stamps.
  • Mouse and wrist pads containing rubber.
  • Keyboards and calculators with rubber keys or switches.
  • Pens with comfort grip or any rubber coating.
  • Remote controllers for TVs or VCRs with rubber grips or keys.
  • Camera, telescope or binocular eye pieces.
  • Bathing caps and elastic in bathing suits.
  
  Products To Avoid Outside the Home:
  • Grocery store checkout belts.
  • Restaurants where workers use latex gloves for food preparation (call ahead to ensure your safety).
  • Balloons.
  • Auto races that emit tire and rubber particles.
  • ATM machine buttons (often made of rubber).
  
  Other products containing rubber include:
  • Tourniquets.
  • Blood Pressure Pads.
  • EKG pads.
  • Some adhesive bandages.
  • Dental devices.

LATEX ALTERNATIVES

There are many alternatives that can be used in place of latex. These include:
• Balloons - Mylar balloons.
• Baby toys - Plastic or cloth toys.
• Bottle nipples - Silicone nipples.
• Condoms - Sheep cecum condoms (for birth control only).
• Elastic bands - Paper clips, string, or twine.
• Household gloves - Synthetic or cotton gloves.
• Raincoat - Nylon or synthetic waterproof coats.
• Shoes with rubber - Leather or synthetic shoes.
• Telephone cords - Clear cords.

If you have a known latex allergy and must visit your health care provider or dentist, inform them of your latex allergy at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment. The hospital or health care provider's office should have a latex-free protocol that they follow for patients with latex allergies.

If you have to stay in the hospital, you will usually be given your own room, free of latex products.

DIET CHANGES

Latex allergies may also cross over into food groups. Or if you are already allergic to certain foods, you may be at high risk for developing a latex allergy. The following foods can trigger a latex-like allergic reaction because the proteins in them mimic latex proteins as they break down in the body:

Banana	Fig	Kiwi	Peach
Grape	Celery	Papaya	Tomato
Nectarine	Avocado	Melon	Potato
Cherry	Rye	Strawberry	Wheat
Plum	Chestnut	Pineapple	Hazelnut

Note: Not all people who have these food allergies will also have latex allergies.

MULTIPLE CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY (MCS): Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is the name given by some to a condition in which various symptoms reportedly appear after a person has been exposed to any of a wide range of chemicals. The exposure may occur as a major event, such as a chemical spill, or from long-term contact with low-levels of chemicals, such as in an office with poor ventilation. As a result of exposure, people with MCS develop sensitivity and have reactions to the chemicals even at levels most people can tolerate. Other names for this condition are "environmental illness" and "sick building syndrome."

Many recognized medical groups and societies, including the CDC, the American Medical Association, and the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, do not consider MCS a distinct physical disorder. There are several reasons for this. First, there is a lack of clinical evidence to support a physical cause for the symptoms. In addition, people with MCS do not develop antibodies in response to chemical exposure, as is the case with an immune system, or allergic, reaction. Further, people with MCS also have high rates of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and somatoform disorders - mental disorders that are expressed through physical symptoms. About 50% of people with MCS meet the criteria for depression and/or anxiety disorders. Much of the controversy, then, centers on whether the symptoms associated with MCS are caused by physical or psychological factors.

MCS SYMPTOMS

People with MCS have reported a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Headache.
• Fatigue.
• Dizziness.
• Nausea.
• Irritability.
• Confusion.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Intolerance to heat or cold.
• Earache.
• Stuffy head or congestion.
• Itching.
• Sneezing.
• Sore throat.
• Memory problems.
• Breathing problems.
• Changes in heart rhythm.
• Chest pain.
• Muscle pain and/or stiffness.
• Bloating or gas.
• Diarrhea.
• Skin rash or hives.
• Mood changes.

Many health care practitioners do not recognize MCS as a disorder and, therefore, do not make a diagnosis of MCS. For this reason, it is not possible to assess how many people actually suffer from MCS. One estimate suggests that 2%-10% of people suffer some disruption in their lives because of MCS, although other experts believe these estimates are too high. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reported that about one-third of people working in sealed buildings claimed to be sensitive to one or more common chemicals. More women than men claim to have MCS, and it appears to occur most often in people between the ages of 30 and 50 years.

MCS CAUSES

The cause of MCS is unknown. One theory suggests that chemicals traveling in the air enter the nose and affect an area of the brain called the limbic system. The limbic system plays a role in emotions, motivated behavior, and memory, which may make a person more sensitive to a chemical odor it previously encountered, a condition called cacosmia. However, this theory has not been proven. Another theory suggests that the immune system is somehow damaged in people with MCS. Still another theory, called "toxic-induced loss of tolerance" (TILT), suggests that acute or chronic exposure to chemicals causes some susceptible people to lose their tolerance for chemicals they previously could tolerate. Again, there is little evidence to support this theory. People with MCS identify many products as chemical triggers, including:

• Tobacco smoke.
• Perfume.
• Traffic exhaust or gasoline fumes.
• Nail polish remover.
• Newspaper ink.
• Hair spray.
• Paint or paint thinner.
• Insecticides.
• Artificial colors, sweeteners, and preservatives in food.
• Adhesive tape.
• New carpet.
• Flame retardants on clothing and furniture (such as mattresses).
• Felt tip pens.
• Chlorine in swimming pools.

MCS DIAGNOSIS

There are no tests to diagnose MCS. A health care provider generally bases his or her diagnosis on the person's description of symptoms, usually following a complete medical history and physical examination. The health care provider may use diagnostic tests, such as X-rays and blood tests, to rule out true allergies and other physical or mental health disorders as the cause of the symptoms.

MCS TREATMENT

Approaches to treatment vary. Most health care providers recommend avoiding the chemicals or foods that seem to trigger reactions. Some providers refer people with MCS to psychiatrists or psychologists, mental health professionals specially trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders. In most cases, the best course of action is for the person to stay in regular contact with a trusted health care provider. Within this health care provider-patient relationship, the health care provider can monitor the symptoms and stay alert to any changes. The health care provider's main approach is likely to focus on reassuring and supporting the person, and preventing unnecessary tests and treatments. It may be necessary, however, to treat some of the symptoms, such as headaches or pain.

MCS PREVENTION

Because little is known about the cause of MCS symptoms, it is not known if the disorder can be prevented.

POISON PLANT ALLERGIES: Poison Plants - Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, and Poison Sumac are plants that contain an irritating, oily sap called urushiol. Urushiol triggers an allergic reaction when it comes into contact with skin, resulting in an itchy rash, which can appear within hours of exposure or three to five days later. A person can be exposed to urushiol directly or by touching objects -- such as gardening tools, camping equipment, and even a pet's fur -- that have come into contact with the sap of one of the poison plants. Urushiol is found in all parts of these plants, including the leaves, stems, and roots, and is even present after the plant has died. Urushiol is absorbed quickly into the skin. It can also be inhaled if the poison plants are burned. The smoke may expose not only the skin to the chemical but also the nasal passages, throat, and lungs. Inhaled urushiol can cause a very serious allergic reaction. The rash that results from the poison plants is a form of allergic contact dermatitis. (Dermatitis is swelling and irritation of the skin.) Skin is not automatically sensitive to urushiol. Sensitivity builds up after the skin is exposed to the substance. When initially exposed to urushiol, the skin alerts the immune system of the presence of the irritating chemical. (Usually, no visible reaction will occur the first time a person comes in contact with a poison plant.) The immune system then prepares a defensive reaction for the next time the skin encounters the substance. This sensitizes the skin so that new contact with urushiol causes an allergic reaction.

Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac can be found in most areas of the U.S., except Alaska, Hawaii, and the deserts of the Southwest.


In some areas of the country (East, Midwest, and South), poison ivy grows as a woody, rope-like vine and tends to grow around lakes and streams. In the northern and western U.S., and around the Great Lakes (midwest), it grows as a trailing shrub on the ground or as a freestanding shrub. Each poison ivy leaf has three leaflets (groups of leaves all on the same small stem coming off the larger main stem), but may vary from groups of three to nine. Leaves are green in the summer and red/yellow in the fall. The flowers are yellow or green and the plant will have off-white berries.


Poison oak closely resembles poison ivy, although it is usually more shrub-like, and its leaves are shaped somewhat like oak leaves. The undersides of the leaves are always a much lighter green than the surface and are covered with hair. Poison oak is more common in the western U.S. In the East (from New Jersey to Texas) it grows as a low shrub. In the West (along the Pacific coast) it grows to 6-foot-tall clumps or vines up to 30 feet long. Oak-like leaves, usually in clusters of three will often turn yellow-red in the fall with clusters of yellow berries.


Poison sumac grows as a woody shrub, with each stem containing 7 to 13 leaves arranged in pairs and the shrub can grow up to 15 feet tall. Poison sumac can be distinguished from harmless sumac by its drooping clusters of green berries. Harmless sumac has red, upright berry clusters. Poison sumac is more common in wet, swampy, boggy areas,especially in the Southeast.

SYMPTOMS OF A POISON PLANT REACTION

All three plants contain the same chemical, urushiol, and cause the same reaction, which generally occurs in the following phases:

• Redness and itching of the skin.
• A rash erupts on the skin, often in a pattern of streaks or patches from where the plant has come into contact with the skin.
• The rash develops into red bumps, called papules, or large, oozing blisters.

Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are three of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis in North America. Some experts estimate that three out of four people are sensitive to the chemical found in these plants, although the degree of sensitivity varies. Some people are very sensitive and will have a quick reaction upon contact with a small amount of urushiol. For those who are less sensitive, exposure to a large amount of urushiol is necessary before a reaction develops. Cases of poison plant allergy occur most frequently during the spring, summer, and early fall when people spend more time outdoors.

POISON PLANT REACTION DIAGNOSIS

An allergic reaction to a poison plant is diagnosed based on the typical pattern of symptoms and the appearance of the rash.

POISON PLANT REACTION TREATMENT

An allergic reaction to a poison plant cannot be cured, but the symptoms can be treated. You may take cool showers, washing as soon as possible after plant contact with soap and water, rubbing alcohol, or as a last resort, mud packs. Resin is fixed to skin within 30 minutes so it is important to was area as soon as possible. Clean any clothing, footwear, and/or pets. The resin is an oil and can stay active for extended periods of time. Treat itch by an application of an over-the-counter lotion, such as calamine lotion, hydrocortisone ointment (1.0%), or mud packs, to help relieve the itch. If your reaction is more severe or involves mucus membranes (membranes found in the eyes, nose, mouth, and genitals), you may need a prescription medication, such as prednisone, to help control the reaction. For extreme cases you should consult with a health care provider.

Most rashes caused by poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac are mild and last from 5 to 12 days. In severe cases, the rash can last for 30 days or longer. Immunotherapy is not available for allergies to poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. You can take steps to prevent exposure:

• Learn to identify poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac, and avoid contact with them.
• Remove these plants from around your home, especially in areas where you may be working or playing.
• When walking in the woods or working in areas where these plants may grow, cover your skin as much as possible by wearing long pants, long-sleeves, shoes, and socks.
• Do not let pets run in wooded areas where they may be exposed to the poison plants. They can carry urushiol back home on their fur.

Many people think a poison plant rash can be spread from one part of the body to another or from person to person. In general, this is not true. You can spread the rash only if you have urushiol on your hands. Also, it can take longer for the rash to appear on certain areas of the body, especially areas such as the soles of the feet where the skin is thicker. This may give the appearance that the rash has spread from one part of the body to another. You can also be re-exposed to the urushiol by touching gardening tools, sports equipment, or other items that were not cleaned after being in contact with the plants. Scratching or touching the rash and fluid from blisters will not cause the rash to spread because urushiol is not present in the blister fluid.

If you think you may have been exposed to a poison plant:

• Remove your clothes.
• Wash all exposed areas with cool running water. Use soap and water if you can. Be sure to clean under your fingernails. In the woods, the water of a running stream can be an effective cleanser.
• Wash your clothing and all gardening tools, camping gear, sports equipment, and other objects that came into contact with the plants.
• Bathe pets exposed to the plants.

If any of the following occurs, seek immediate medical attention:

• You have symptoms of a severe reaction, such as severe swelling and/or difficulty breathing.
• You have been exposed to the smoke of burning poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac.
• The rash covers more than one quarter of your body.
• The rash occurs on your face, lips, eyes, or genitals.
• The initial treatment does not relieve the symptoms.
• You develop a fever and/or the rash shows signs of infection, such as increased tenderness, pus or yellow fluid oozing from the blisters, and an odor coming from the blisters.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, Poison Sumac

SINUSITIS: Sinusitis is an inflammation, or swelling, of the tissue lining the sinuses. Normally, sinuses are filled with air. But when sinuses become blocked and filled with fluid, bacteria can grow and cause an infection. Conditions that cause sinus blockage include the common cold, allergic rhinitis (swelling of the lining of the nose), nasal polyps (small growths in the lining of the nose), or deviated septum (a shift in the nasal cavity). Allergies (such as hay fever) can also cause swelling and poor drainage of the sinuses. There are two types of sinusitis, including:

• ACUTE SINUSITIS: A sudden onset of symptoms that respond well to antibiotics and decongestants.
• CHRONIC SINUSITIS: Characterized by at least four recurrences of sinusitis or infection that last 12 weeks or longer.

About 37 million Americans suffer from at least one episode of sinusitis each year. People who have the following conditions have a higher risk of sinusitis:

• Nasal mucous membrane swelling as from a common cold.
• Blockage of drainage ducts.
• Structure differences that narrow the drainage ducts.
• Conditions that result in an increased risk of infection.
• In children, common environmental factors that contribute to sinusitis include allergies, illness from other children at day care or school, pacifiers, bottle drinking while lying on one's back, and smoke in the environment.
• In adults, the contributing factors are most frequently infections and smoking.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF ACUTE SINUSITIS

The primary symptoms of acute sinusitis include:

• Facial pain/pressure.
• Nasal stuffiness.
• Nasal discharge.
• Loss of smell.
• Cough/congestion.

Additional symptoms may include:

• Fever.
• Bad breath.
• Fatigue.
• Dental pain.
• Acute sinusitis can last four weeks or more. This condition may be diagnosed when a person has two or more symptoms and/or the presence of thick, green, or yellow nasal discharge.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF CHRONIC SINUSITIS

People with chronic sinusitis may have the following symptoms for 12 weeks or more:

• Facial congestion/fullness.
• A nasal obstruction/blockage.
• Pus in the nasal cavity.
• Fever.
• Nasal discharge/discolored postnasal drainage.

Additional symptoms may include:

• Headaches.
• Bad breath.
• Fatigue.
• Dental pain.
• Thick nasal discharge.

SINUSITIS DIAGNOSIS

To diagnose sinusitis, your health care provider will examine your face for swelling and redness over the cheekbone area. Facial swelling and redness are generally more prominent in the morning. As you remain upright, the symptoms gradually improve. The exam may include your health care provider feeling and pressing your sinuses for tenderness. He or she may also tap your teeth to see if you have an inflamed paranasal sinus.

Other diagnostic tests may include a study of the mucus culture, nasal endoscopy, X-rays, allergy testing, or CT scan of the sinuses.

An endoscope is a special tube-like instrument equipped with tiny lights and cameras used to examine the interior of the nose and sinus drainage areas. A nasal endoscopy allows your health care provider to view the accessible areas of the sinus drainage pathways. First your nasal cavity is numbed using a local anesthetic. A rigid or flexible endoscope is then placed in position to view the middle bone structure of the nasal cavity. The procedure is used to observe signs of obstruction as well as detect nasal polyps hidden from routine nasal examination. During the endoscopic examination, the health care provider also looks for pus, polyp formation, and any structural abnormalities that would cause you to suffer from recurrent sinusitis.

SINUSITIS TREATMENT

Acute sinusitis. This is generally treated with 10 to 14 days of antibiotics. With treatment, the symptoms usually disappear and antibiotics are no longer required. Oral and topical decongestants may be prescribed to alleviate the symptoms. Use of non-prescription drops or sprays might be effective in controlling symptoms. However, non-prescription drops should not be used beyond their recommended use, usually four to five days, or they may actually increase congestion.

Chronic sinusitis. Warm moist air may alleviate sinus congestion. A vaporizer or inhaling steam from a pan of boiling water (removed from heat) may also help. Warm compresses are useful to relieve pain in the nose and sinuses. Saline nose drops are also safe for home use. Use of non-prescription drops or sprays might be effective in controlling symptoms, however, they should not be used beyond their recommended use. Antibiotics may also be prescribed.

OTHER TREATMENT OPTIONS

To reduce congestion, your health care provider may prescribe nasal sprays (some may contain steroid sprays), nose drops, or oral decongestant medicine. If you suffer from severe chronic sinusitis, oral steroids might be prescribed to reduce inflammation, usually only when other medications have not worked. Antibiotics will be prescribed for any bacterial infection found in the sinuses (antibiotics are not effective against a viral infection). An antihistamine may be recommended for the treatment of allergies. Antifungal medicine may be prescribed for treatment for any fungal infection.

Smoking is never recommended, but if you do smoke, you should refrain during treatment for sinus problems. No special diet is required, but drinking extra fluids helps to thin secretions.

Mucus is developed by the body to moisten the sinus walls. In the sinus walls, the mucus is moved across tissue linings toward the opening of each sinus by millions of cilia (a hair-like extension of a cell). Irritation and swelling from an allergy can narrow the opening of the sinus and block mucus movement. If antibiotics and other medicines are not effective in opening the sinus, surgery may be necessary. Also, if there is a structural abnormality of the sinus such as nasal polyps, which obstruct sinus drainage, surgery may be needed.

Surgery is performed under local or general anesthesia using an endoscope. Most people can return to normal activities within five to seven days following surgery; full recovery usually takes about four to six weeks. A procedure called a "turbinectomy" may also be performed to permanently shrink the swollen membranes of the nose. This is done in the office and takes a few minutes. The anesthetic used is very similar to that used in routine dental procedures.

Delaying treatment for sinusitis will result in suffering from unnecessary pain and discomfort. In rare circumstances, untreated sinusitis can lead to meningitis or brain abscess, and infection of the bone.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Sinusitis



TREATMENT

HEALTH CARE EXAM

An important part of diagnosing allergies is a careful evaluation of your symptoms. Your health care provider will ask you several questions to rule out other conditions that may cause allergy-like symptoms.

Questions Your Health Care Provider May Ask

• What type of symptoms do you have?
• How long have you had these symptoms?
• When symptoms occur, how long do they last?
• Are your symptoms seasonal (come and go throughout the year) or do they last year-round?
• Do your symptoms occur when you are outdoors or indoors, such as when you clean your house?
• Do your symptoms get worse when you are around pets? Do you have any pets?
• Do you smoke? Does anyone in your family smoke?
• Are your symptoms interfering with your daily activities or interrupting your sleep?
• What makes your symptoms better? What types of treatments have you tried? What allergy medication(s) are you taking now? Do these medications provide relief? Do they cause unwanted drowsiness?
• What other medications are you taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins and herbal supplements?
• What type of heating system do you have? Do you have central air conditioning?
• Do you have any other health conditions, such as asthma or high blood pressure?
• Are you having difficulty with your sense of smell or taste?
• What makes your symptoms worse?
• How much can you modify your lifestyle to reduce your exposure to these allergens?

In addition to asking questions, your health care provider will perform a complete physical exam. Your skin, eyes, nose, ears, and throat will be examined. Your health care provider will look for inflammation (redness or swelling), drainage, or other signs of allergy symptoms. Other tests may be performed, based on your health care provider's recommendations after the medical history and examination, to determine which allergens are causing your symptoms. These may include a skin test or blood test.

Questions to Ask Your Health Care Provider

• What substances are causing my allergies?
• What allergy symptoms should I be concerned about? When is it necessary to call the health care provider?
• What allergy medications or other treatments are available? What are the benefits/side effects of each treatment?
• Will I need allergy shots?
• What guidelines should I follow if I'm prescribed allergy medication?
• Should I take medicine all the time or only when my allergy symptoms become worse?
• Should I stop exercising outside if I have allergies?
• What types of plants are better to put in my yard if I have allergies?
• How can I avoid or reduce exposure to certain allergens?
• What can I do around my house to reduce allergies?
• Should I avoid going outside during certain times of the year? What can I do to decrease allergy symptoms when I do have to go outside?
• How can I tell the difference between allergies and a cold or the flu?
• Will changing my diet improve my symptoms?
• How often should I come in for follow-up appointments?

SKIN TESTING FOR ALLERGIES

The season in which your allergy occurs will narrow the list of possible culprits. To pinpoint the cause, your health care provider may perform a skin test to determine which substances (allergens) cause a reaction.

The skin test, also called a scratch test, is used to identify the substances that are causing your allergy symptoms. It involves placing extracts of potential allergens in a grid on your arm or back, and then scratching or pricking your skin so the extract can enter the outer layer of skin (epidermis) to allow exposure to the extract. Those areas that become red and itchy indicate which substances trigger a defensive (allergic) response by your immune system. Evaluation of the skin's reaction will determine the intensity of your allergic reaction to that allergen.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE SKIN TEST...

First, a health care provider will examine the skin on your forearm and clean it with alcohol. (Sometimes, the skin test is performed on an area of your back.)

Areas on your skin are then marked with a pen to identify each allergen that will be tested. A drop of extract for each potential allergen (such as pollen, animal dander, or insect venom) is placed on the corresponding mark. A small disposable pricking device or a small syringe and needle is then used so the extract can enter into the outer layer of the skin, called the epidermis. The skin prick is not a shot and doesn't cause bleeding. Sometimes, instead of the skin pricking method, a small amount of the allergen is injected just under the skin.

If there are allergic antibodies in your system, your skin will become irritated and may itch, much like a mosquito bite. This reaction means you are allergic to that substance.

Plan to spend about an hour for the entire appointment. The allergen placement part of the test takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Then you will have to wait about 15 minutes to see how your skin reacts.

Inform the health care provider who is going to perform the skin test about all medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter medications. Since over-the-counter antihistamines stop allergic reactions, you should not take them for at least 48 hours before the test. Prescription antihistamines should be discontinued five to seven days before the test. Talk to your health care provider about discontinuing your prescription medicines prior to the test. Your health care provider will give you a list of medicines to avoid before the test, since there are other drugs that can interfere with the results. Since you may not be able to discontinue certain medicines, the health care provider may perform a separate "control" test to determine if that particular drug will interfere with the scratch test.

The test may be mildly irritating, but most people say it doesn't hurt too much. The part I hated the most was the itching from the allergen reactions.

Although small amounts of allergens are introduced into your system, a skin test is safe when performed properly. You may be supervised by your health care provider for extreme reactions if you have severe allergies.

After the test, the extracts and ink marks will be cleaned off your skin with alcohol. A mild cortisone cream will be applied to your arm to relieve any itching at the sites of the skin pricks. Keep the tested area on your arm uncovered when you go home. Your health care provider or allergist will use the results of the test to help develop a management plan for you.

You should contact your health care provider if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Fever.
• Lightheadedness.
• Wheezing.
• Shortness of breath.

If skin testing cannot be performed, the health care provider may perform a radioallergosorbent blood test (RAST) to check the levels of antibodies produced by the immune system. Elevated levels of certain antibodies can identify particular allergies. Because RAST is not as sensitive as skin testing in detecting certain substances, it is only used when skin testing isn't possible.

BLOOD TESTING FOR ALLERGIES

Blood tests are sometimes performed to find out what triggers an allergic reaction. Blood tests are often used if patients have a skin condition or are taking medications, such as antihistamines, that could interfere with an allergy skin test, the most common test used to identify allergy triggers.

The radioallergosorbent test (RAST) and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test are two types of blood tests used to diagnose allergies. In both, a small amount of blood is taken from the allergy sufferer and analyzed for antibodies. High levels of antibodies in the blood indicate an allergic reaction.

These blood tests are not as effective as skin testing and tend to be somewhat more expensive, but can be useful in some situations.

ELIMINATION DIET & FOOD CHALLENGE TEST

The elimination diet and food challenge test are used to identify food allergies. The elimination diet involves removing specific foods or ingredients from your diet that you and your health care provider suspect may be causing your allergy symptoms. (Common allergy-causing foods are milk, eggs, nuts, wheat, and soy.) Your health care provider will supervise this diet over two to three weeks.

During this time, you will need to carefully read food labels and find out about food preparation methods when dining out. You'll also need to keep a food diary to record the foods you are eating. If you remove a certain food and the symptoms go away while following this diet, your health care provider can usually identify that food as the cause of your problems.

While following this diet, make sure you are eating other foods that provide the same nutrients as those you've eliminated (for example, try tofu-based foods instead of dairy products). A dietitian can help you plan meals that are healthful and nutritious without including the potentially allergenic foods.

After following the elimination diet, your health care provider will ask you to gradually reintroduce the foods you were avoiding into your diet, one at a time. This process helps link symptoms to specific foods. You will need to carefully record any symptoms that occur when you eat each of these foods. If your symptoms return after eating the food, the diagnosis can usually be confirmed. You will be asked once again to eliminate the foods that have been identified as causing symptoms to see if the symptoms clear up. This is not a foolproof method. Psychological and physical factors can affect the diet's results. For example, if you think you're sensitive to a food, a response could occur that may not be a true allergic one.

Before making significant changes in your diet, always seek the advice of your health care provider. If you randomly remove foods from your diet, you may not have a balanced diet and a lack of some nutrients can cause other health problems. You may also become frustrated because it may seem that everything you eat is causing a reaction.

If you've had a severe (anaphylactic) reaction to certain foods, this method can't be used.

A CONTROLLED FOOD CHALLENGE

In a controlled environment such as an intensive care hospital unit, the health care provider (usually a board-certified allergist) may conduct a food challenge test to determine if a food allergy exists or to confirm a suspected food allergy. A sample of the suspected offending food is given to the person unknowingly. The suspected offending food may be mixed with another food or may be disguised as an ingredient in another food. These food preparation techniques are used to prevent undue influence on the outcome of the test (if the person recognizes the food by sight or taste). Another method is to have the person take a capsule containing the allergen. This test is given under strict supervision. After eating the food or taking the capsule, the person is monitored to see if a reaction occurs.

The ideal way to perform the food challenge test is as a "double-blind, placebo-controlled test." With this method, neither the allergist nor the allergy sufferer is aware of which capsule, or food, contains the suspected allergen. In order for the test to be effective, the person must also take capsules or eat food that does not contain the allergen. This will help the allergist make sure the reaction, if any, being observed is due to the allergen and not some other factor. Someone with a history of severe reactions cannot participate in a food challenge test. In addition, multiple food allergies are difficult to evaluate with this test.

Since this test takes a lot of time to perform, it is costly and thus, done infrequently. This type of testing is generally used when the health care provider needs to confirm or eliminate specific food allergens.

FOOD ALLERGY SELF-TEST

Caution: Do not perform an Allergy Self-Test if you have potentially life-threatening or severe allergic responses to any substance. This test is for those individuals that may have only mild symptoms and need to identify and eliminate the substance from their environment or diet. For more severe allergic responses, testing should be done under the supervision of your allergist.

If you suspect that you are allergic to a specific food, a simple test can help you determine if you are correct. By recording your pulse rate after consuming the food in question, you can reveal if you are having an allergic reaction. Using a watch with a second hand, sit down and relax for a few minutes. When completely relaxed, take your pulse at the wrist. Count the number of beats in a sixty-second period. A normal pulse reading is between 52 and 70 beats per minute for an adult with moderate athletic conditioning.

AGE OF INDIVIDUAL	NORMAL PULSE (HEART RATE) READINGS
Newborn Infants	100 to 160 beats per minute
Children 1 to 10 Years	70 to 120 beats per minute
Children Over 10 Years	60 to 100 beats per minute
Adults	60 to 100 beats per minute
Well-Trained Athletes	40 to 60 beats per minute

After taking your pulse, consume the food that you are testing for an allergic reaction. Wait 15 to 20 minutes and take your pulse again. If your pulse rate has increased more than 10 beats per minute, omit this food from your diet for one month, and then retest yourself.

For the purpose of this test, it is best to use the purest form of the suspect food available. For example, if you are testing yourself for an allergy to wheat, it is better to use a bit of plain cream of wheat cereal than to use wheat bread, which contains other ingredients besides wheat. This way you will know that whatever reaction you observe (or fail to observe), it is the wheat that is responsible.

Detecting Your Food Allergies

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CONSIDERATIONS

The surest way to prevent an allergic reaction is to stay away from the allergen in question. This is possible for some types of allergies - such as foods - but other allergens, such as pollen, may be impossible to avoid. A number of remedies moderate the immune response and help to prevent allergic reactions. Treatments can also be applied externally to the skin for symptomatic relief of itching or rashes.

REDUCE DAIRY INTAKE

In allergy sufferers, dairy products can inhibit breathing and increase mucus. Try to cut down on the amount of dairy products in your diet, especially if you have asthma.

TRY A SWEAT BATH

Raising your body temperature in a hot bath has a fever-like effect, helping to purge the body of toxins. Fill a tub with hot water (about 97°F). Immerse yourself completely, leaving only your mouth and nose above the surface. Over the next 30 minutes, add hot water from time to time until the temperature reaches about 100°-102°F. Periodically rub your body with a brush. Afterward, take a cold shower, lie in bed and drink plenty of fluids. Warning: If you have heart or circulatory problems, are taking cortisone or are pregnant, take this bath only under medical supervision.

HELP FROM CAYENNE PEPPER

Cayenne Pepper contains an anti-inflammatory substance called Capsaicin, which may help relieve allergies. Sprinkle liberal amounts of cayenne pepper on your food for a few days. Drinking a cayenne cocktail can help to clean out mucus in the body. A Cayenne Cocktail can be made from tomato or vegetable juice (such as V-8) and adding 1/2 to a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to a cup of juice. Heat the juice in a microwave or on the stove to make a hot drink. Do not boil. Fresh garlic and/or horseradish may be added, if desired to the cocktail for an extra boost. Drink while hot. Guaranteed to open up sinuses and heat the body up. This is also great for colds and flu symptoms. Contains vitamin C, vitamin A and other antioxidants.

Extra Tip - If you are susceptible to allergies, regularly cleanse the body of allergens and toxins with a juice fast. Drink nothing but preservative-free herb and vegetable juices for 2-5 days. This will help flush out waste products and stimulate healing.

ALLERGY CONCERNS

IgE is an antibody formed by the body as part of an allergic response to a food substance (or any other substance that initiates an allergic response). If IgE is present in your lung tissue, it frequently causes symptoms such as shortness of breath or asthma. If present in the skin, it can cause hives. If IgE is present in the wall of the intestinal tract, it can result in severe pain, gas, or bloating. IgE can be present anywhere in the body, causing severe problems. Even healthy natural foods can have an adverse effect if you are allergic to them.

Cerebral allergies can cause swelling of the lining of the brain. Entire food families can cause such allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Recurrent headaches, or schizophrenic, violent, or aggressive reactions can be an indicator of cerebral allergy. Foods such as corn, wheat, rice, milk, chocolate, and certain food additives, are the most common offenders.

Research reports that taking aspirin before consuming an allergenic food makes it possible for more of the allergy-provoking food to be absorbed. In contrast, taking Aerobic Bulk Cleanse from Aerobic Life Industries combined with aloe vera juice may slow the absorption of foods that cause a reaction. Taking oat bran or guar gum in the morning works in the same way. Wheat bran is not recommended as a source of fiber for allergy prone individuals because wheat is highly allergenic.



MoonDragon's Nutrition Basics: Fiber

Research is being conducted on the ability of Coenzyme Q-10 to counter histamine for asthma and allergy sufferers.

Steroidal nasal sprays can be very effective for allergies and are less expensive than many prescription medications. These sprays, however, do not relieve itchiness of the eyes. They generally need up to 10 days to become effective, so it is advisable to begin taking them about a week prior to hay fever season. Be sure to check first with your health care provider before using them, as recent studies suggest a possible link between steroid nasal sprays and the development of glaucoma - a concern for older adults.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Eyes - Glaucoma

Plants produce oxygen as a normal part of their growth and living process, and help to remove pollutants from indoor air. Some plants suggested for his purpose include areca palm, bamboo palm, Boston fern, dracaena, dwarf date plant, English ivy, ficus alii, lady palm, peace lily, rubber plant, and spider plant.

Acupressure and acupuncture have had some success in relieving allergy symptoms. Acupuncture has been touted as an extremely helpful technique in restoring the immune system and thus relieving allergies. Acupressure, if used as soon as you begin having an allergic reaction, apply firm pressure to the center of the webbing of your hand - between your thumb and index finger. Take some slow, deep breaths. Maintain this constant, steady pressure for a minimum of 2 minutes, and then apply the same simple technique on your other hand.

MoonDragon's Health Therapy: Acupressure

MoonDragon's Health Therapy: Acupuncture

Many allergy sufferers are turning to homeopathic remedies to combat allergy symptoms. Homeopathic treatments can readjust the immune system and alleviate symptoms of allergies. They work with the body's natural functions to shut off the allergic response instead of masking symptoms. Combination remedies are often the easiest way to use homeopathy for allergies.

Specific remedies include Apis mellifica in a potency of 10X and Rhus toxicodendron 6X for inflammatory skin rashes and Sabadilla 4X for hay fever.

BioAllers has a line of homeopathic combination remedies designed for specific allergies including:

• Animal Hair / Dander


• Grain / Dairy


• Grass Pollen


• Mold / Yeast / Dust


• Pollen / Hayfever


• Sinus & Allergy Nasal Spray


• Tree Pollen Allergy Relief Formulas


• Poison Oak / Poison Ivy

Warning: Homeopathic remedies should be administered under the close supervision of a professional because they sometimes cause an initial flare-up of symptoms.

Research is being conducted on the ability of Coenzyme Q-10 to counter histamine for asthma and allergy sufferers.

Quercetin, found in apples, berries, grapefruit, onions, cabbage, tea, and red wine, is a potent flavonoid. Recently, researchers at the Nippon Medical School in Japan found seasonal allergy sufferers taking it had a 96 percent decrease in histamine release. Quercetin is better absorbed when taken with bromelain, an enzyme mix normally found in fresh pineapple, For allergies, try taking one 500 mg quercetin capsule along with 100 mg bromelain and 500 mg vitamin C with meals, twice daily.

TO HEAL SKIN REACTIONS

HERBAL EXTRACTS Various plants or herbal extracts can be added to bathwater or applied via compresses to relieve allergic skin reactions. For instance, Oak Bark or Witch Hazel Extracts are effective against oozing eczema and other skin inflammations. Burning and itching rashes are quickly relieved by adding oatmeal or bran to baths.

CHAMOMILE COMPRESS Soak a compress in Chamomile, which is thought to have anti-inflammatory agents, and apply to the skin to alleviate swelling.

CLIMATE THERAPY Take relaxing breaks by the ocean or up in the mountains to promote healing and provide relief from allergy-related skin complaints.

OTHER HELPFUL SUGGESTIONS

To find other useful products for allergy sufferers, go to www.allergybuyersclub.com.

Also check out these links:

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Chemical Allergies

MoonDragon's Health Therapy: Fasting

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HERBAL & HOLISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS

HERBS

Ephedra (Ma Huang) is good for relieving nasal and chest congestion. Caution: Do not use this herb if you suffer from anxiety, glaucoma, heart disease, high blood pressure, or insomnia, or if you are taking a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor drug for depression.

If you have no history of heart disease or high blood pressure, you may drink up to 3 cups of Ephedra tea (or capsules) daily during an attack. Do not use Ephedra extensively if you have high blood pressure, or if it makes you feel nauseous. In an emergency attack, a small amount of Ephedra can be used. Ephedra is the basis for the drug ephedrine, commonly used in pharmaceutical allergy and asthma medications. It was used in folk remedies for 5,000 years before it was "discovered" by pharmaceutical companies in 1923.

Goldenseal Root aids absorption of nutrients. Caution: Do not take goldenseal on a daily basis for more than one week at a time, and do not use it during pregnancy. If you have a history of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or glaucoma, use it only under a health care provider's supervision.

Other herbs that can be beneficial for allergies include Burdock, Dandelion, and Echinacea.

For relief of allergic symptoms, take 2 to 3 teaspoons of Yerba Mate in 16 ounces of hot water on an empty stomach.

Spray the house after cleaning with a mixture of Eucalyptus oil, Juniper Berry oil, and water.

During periods of attack, munch on parsley and celery sticks. Eat brown rice, bananas, almonds, peas, kidney beans, lima beans, and tofu. Cook with garlic and onions. Sprinkle your salads with sage. Add molasses and honey as sweeteners to whatever you can. Take spirulina supplements. Eat bananas.

To stop allergic coughing symptoms, take 2 capsules or teacups of Mullein and Yerba Santa every 4 hours, along with 2 to 4 cups of Kava Kava and Blue Vervain per day. You may add the Yerba Santa, Mullein, Kava Kava and Vervain to any other tea formula you are using for the day. (Whenever you are drinking a lot of different herbs in a tea, add a full teaspoon of each herb, making the tea stronger, rather than mixing the herbs together and using only one teaspoon per cup. Drink two to three cups of the strong tea.) If the coughing is extreme and uncontrollable, add 1 teaspoon Lobelia, 1 teaspoon Ephedra, and 1 teaspoon Valerian to a tea bag. Steep 10 minutes. Sip slowly. Plan to take a nap afterwards. Do not do this any more than once a day for 3 or 4 days. Chew on Chinese licorice sticks between doses. Keep away from stressful situations. Rest until the episode is over. Be sure the allergen is not near you.

To stop allergic sneezing and sniffling, take 3 capsules of Garlic and Capsicum powder with 4 capsules of Ginkgo Biloba, 3 times a day. Sip a tea of Yerba Santa whenever possible.

To relieve allergic hives and swelling, drink 3 cups of herbal tea made with 1 teaspoon Ephedra, 1 teaspoon Echinacea, 1 teaspoon Valerian, 1 teaspoon Mullein, and 1 teaspoon Goldenseal added. You may use the same herbs to brew all 3 cups of tea. Take a hot bath with 1 pound of baking soda or Epsom salts added to the water. You may want to induce vomiting using 3 cups of lobelia tea. After vomiting, drink a cup of peppermint tea. Clear the toxins out of the blood with an enema every morning and a three day fast of just water and fruit juices. Apply moistened baking soda or Epsom salts to the itching areas.

To relieve breathing problems: Mix together 4 teaspoons Ephedra, 1 teaspoon licorice root powder, 2 teaspoons Mullein, 1 teaspoon Yerba Santa, 1/2 teaspoon Ginkgo Biloba, 1/2 teaspoon Gotu Kola. Put this into pill capsules or brew into a tea. If the sufferer is a child, make a syrup out of it by cooking 1 cup tea with 1 cup honey until the liquid boils down into a syrup. Cool and bottle the syrup and use it by teaspoonfuls. Use a dark-colored, sterilized bottle with a cork in it. Refrigerate or keep in a dark, cool place until needed. Don't make a habit out of taking this. A week is enough. Take a rest of 3 weeks before you take it again. Don't take St. John's Wort, or any prescription drugs that are MAO inhibitors, at the same time.

To disinfect the sick room or whole house where an allergic person lives: In addition to air filters on your heating system and cleaning of air conditioning ducts annually, fill a spray bottle with water and add juniper berry oil and eucalyptus oil. Clean the room thoroughly first, then spray like an aerosol wherever the affected person will be. This will help to keep allergens settled and out of the nasal passages. Dust is often a trigger for allergic reactions.

To make a nose spray: Put 1 tablespoon ephedra in 1 pint boiling water. Steep 30 minutes.

To make a mouthwash for gargling: Put 1 heaping tablespoon of salt in 1 pint warm water. Add a dropperful of goldenseal and milk thistle tincture. Use as a gargle during hay fever season. Don't use all year long.

To make "hay fever" pills: Mix 2 parts eyebright, 1 part goldenseal, 1 part mullein, and 1/2 part nettles. Put into capsules. Take 2 capsules of "hay fever" pills plus 2 capsules of garlic and capsicum twice a day with plain, nonfat and non-sugared yogurt. Sweeten the yogurt with blackstrap molasses and banana slices. Often dairy products are an allergen, but yogurt is an exception. If yogurt is an allergen for you, substitute cold brown rice sweetened with molasses and banana slices.

To stop an acute asthma attack if medical assistance is not available: Quickly drink 3 cups of black coffee. Surprisingly, coffee is a specific medication for asthma.

It's Hayfever Season Again! by Sue Frederick It's spring again. The birds sing familiar melodies, and you sing your familiar refrain: achoo! achoo! If hayfever is clouding your springtime revelry, herbs might help. Which city is the hayfever capital of the U.S.?  New York. To get a daily pollen forecast for your area, log on to The Weather Channel at www.weather.com/weather/maps/ Many people barely enjoy a lovely spring day. Their immune system goes overboard responding to airborne pollens. Indeed, itchy, watery eyes; runny nose; sneezing; and inflamed sinuses make being outside a miserable experience for hayfever sufferers. And there are many of them: Hayfever affects 20 percent of Americans, making it the sixth most common chronic illness in the United States. Known medically as allergic rhinitis, hayfever is an allergy that occurs when our immune system attacks invading airborne plant proteins and binds them to an antibody produced in the body called IgE (immunoglobulin E). The IgE-antigen complex then binds to white blood cells called mast cells. This binding causes the release of histamine, a chemical produced in the body, which results in familiar hayfever symptoms. Any substance that causes an allergy such as hayfever is called an allergen. Ragweed pollen accounts for about 75 percent of hayfever in the United States. If hayfever develops in the spring, it's usually due to tree pollen. If it develops in the summer, grass and weed pollen are probably to blame. Many people also develop hayfever in response to mold or fungus spores, which commonly occur any time from mid-March to November. The first approach to treating hayfever is to reduce the airborne allergens you're exposed to, either by staying indoors or moving to another location. If these alternatives aren't possible, the next step is developing healthy habits such as eating a diet of whole grains and fresh vegetables, lowering or eliminating alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking, and reducing stress. In addition, a good air filter in your home or office space will help lower pollen levels. All these steps can help reduce your IgE levels, according to Michael Murray, N.D., author of Natural Alternatives to Over-the-Counter and Prescription Drugs (William Morrow & Co.). When you've done what you can to prevent hayfever episodes, but you're still suffering, herbs such as ephedra, eyebright and nettles can help relieve symptoms. Consult with a health care practitioner before using herbs to treat your symptoms. Breathe Easier with Ephedra The Chinese have used the dried stems of the ephedra plant, called ma huang, for at least 5,000 years to treat hayfever, colds and other inflammatory conditions. From a traditional Chinese medicine perspective, ma huang facilitates the movement of lung qi and controls wheezing. (Pronounced "chee," qi is the body's vital energy.) Ma huang is considered hot, bitter and warming, and its functions are to induce sweat, smooth breathing and promote urine excretion. Ephedra (Ephedra sinica) contains many active compounds, including small amounts of essential oil and one to two percent alkaloids composed mainly of ephedrine and pseudoephedrine. Researchers first isolated ephedrine in 1923 and found that it affected the body similarly to adrenaline: It helped dilate the bronchial tubes and allowed asthmatics to breathe more easily. However, it soon became clear that ephedrine had dangerous side effects. Although the alkaloids in ephedra can benefit the body when used in appropriate doses, over-use can increase blood Ephedra (ma huang) helps to dilate bronchial tubes, makes breathing easier, and reduces symptoms of itchy eyes, runny nose and sneezing. pressure and heart rate, resulting in insomnia and anxiety. This is true of the whole herb as well. Safe dosages are critical, say experts. Several states have recently passed laws and/or issued regulations controlling the sale of products containing ephedra alkaloids due to concerns about safe dosages, especially in stimulant pills, which have become popular among people trying to lose weight. Last year, the FDA proposed a rule that would limit the maximum daily dosage of ephedra alkaloids to 24 mg per day, equivalent to three doses of 8 mg each (Federal Register, June 1997, vol. 62). Taken in safe amounts, however, ephedra can dramatically reduce symptoms of watery, itchy eyes, runny nose and sneezing. A 1985 study indicates that ephedrine, along with ephedra's other constituents, inhibits tissue swelling. Researchers found that the anti-inflammatory action of ephedra is exerted at the early stage of inflammation. Additionally, it seems ephedra's alkaloids inhibit the formation of inflammatory prostaglandins (Planta Medica, 1985, vol. 4). The sinuses are often involved in allergic reactions. The tissues lining air-filled cavities above, below and behind your eyes can swell, blocking the outlets of the sinuses to the nose. Mucus buildup in the sinuses can cause headaches, while mucus draining from the back of the nose into the throat can irritate the throat. Ephedra is a proven, effective decongestant because its active constituents, ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, help constrict peripheral blood vessels, thereby relieving congestion in swollen tissues and allowing the sinuses to drain. Because ephedra acts as a stimulant, long-term use can tax the adrenals. Also, ephedra has strong central nervous system effects, and its actions are almost identical to amphetamine, only at one-fifth the potency. Don't use ephedra if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid or heart disorders, are pregnant, or if you're taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) -- a type of antidepressant. Eye-Soothing Eyebright Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) was used by ancient Greeks to treat eye infections. The name euphrasia is derived from the Greek euphrosyne, which means "gladness." It's believed the name was given to the plant because eyebright induced happiness by facilitating sight. Today, the United Plant Savers, an organization dedicated to protecting endangered medicinal plants, has placed eyebright on its "to watch" list as the plant's numbers in the wild are dwindling. Eyebright contains tannins, iridoid glycosides, the flavonoids quercetin and rutin, vitamin C, essential fatty acids, the glycoside aucuboside, caffeic and ferulic acids, sterols, choline, some basic compounds, and a volatile oil. There's been no significant scientific research into the merits of eyebright. None of its chemical components has been associated with a significant therapeutic effect, and there are no known controlled human studies to evaluate its effectiveness in treating eye Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) helps decrease inflammation and soothes burning or tired eyes associated with hayfever. irritations. Yet, eyebright remains in high esteem among Western herbalists because it seems to soothe burning or tired eyes, often a result of hayfever. Eyebright has cooling and detoxifying properties that make it useful for inflammations, especially of the eyes and sinuses, notes Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., author of The Way of Herbs (Pocket Books). According to herbalist Ed Smith of Williams, Oregon, eyebright contains flavonoids (plant pigments) that specifically affect mucous membranes in the eyes and nasal passages. "The flavonoids in eyebright are anti-inflammatory and stabilize mast cells," he says. These cells are present in the tissues lining the nasal passages and are responsible for reactions to allergens. When you breathe in pollen, your body responds with inflammation, burning eyes and runny nose. Inflammation increases your sensitivity to pollen, which then intensifies the inflammation. "Eyebright can help break this allergy cycle," Smith explains. Folk medicine has long advised use of eyebright compresses applied to irritated eyes. However, the German Commission E monographs, a compendium of German regulations on herbal use in that country, advises against using compresses because their use may not be helpful, and the dried herb from which the tea is made may contain contaminants. In addition, German studies suggest that drops of eyebright tincture placed directly in the eye may cause significant side effects that include tearing, itching, redness and swelling of the eyelids. Stop a Runny Nose with Nettles Brushing up against an adult stinging nettle plant will probably make a lasting impression on you. The needle-like hairs of nettles will sting your skin like a swarm of fire ants. Derived from the Anglo-Saxon word for "needle," the nettle (Urtica dioica) has been regarded as a powerful medicinal herb for centuries. Today, nettles is recognized for being high in vitamin C and trace minerals and as a rich source of chlorophyll. Constituents include histamine, formic acid, chlorophyll, glucoquinine and iron. In one clinical study, researchers noted that freeze-dried stinging Nettles (Urtica dioica) helps treat nasal and respiratory problems, including coughs, runny nose and chest congestion. nettles relieved allergy symptoms in more than half of the participating patients. Indeed, 58 percent of the participants taking study doses of freeze-dried nettles for one week experienced reduced symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (Planta Medica, 1990, vol. 56). Don't be surprised that nettle does, in fact, help relieve allergy symptoms, says James Duke, Ph.D., author of The Green Pharmacy (Rodale). For centuries, cultures around the world have used this herb to treat nasal and respiratory troubles, including coughs, runny nose and chest congestion. Stinging nettle's diuretic activity has been the subject of a number of German studies. In 1989, German researchers reported that nettles root showed anti-inflammatory effects in animal trials and that it stimulated human lymphocytes in vitro (in a test tube) (Planta Medica, 1989, vol. 55). Toxic effects such as gastric irritation, burning skin sensation, edema and urine suppression from drinking nettle tea have been recorded. Nettles also stimulates uterine contractions in animal studies, therefore pregnant women should not take this herb internally without consulting with their midwife. Sneeze Easers To reduce hayfever attacks, naturopathic physicians recommend: Large doses of vitamin C, a natural antihistamine, during hayfever season. Vitamin C is considered to be a natural antihistamine because it inhibits the release of histamine by mast cells. Good sources of vitamin C include red bell peppers, kale, kiwi fruit, orange or grapefruit juice, broccoli, arugula, cauliflower, papaya and strawberries. A vitamin and mineral supplement to enhance immunity. Quercetin, a bioflavonoid shown to relieve or prevent hayfever. Drinking an 8-ounce glass of water followed by a pinch of salt on the tongue every 15 to 30 minutes until symptoms subside. Reducing consumption of mucus-producing dairy products. Adding a few drops of a congestion-clearing essential oil such as eucalyptus, peppermint, sage, lavender and tea tree oil to 2 cups of boiling water and inhaling. A week-long cleansing fast, taking in only water, fruit and vegetable juices and no solid food (as hayfever can be linked to food sensitivity). Sue Frederick is a freelance writer who works with the Herb Research Foundation in Boulder, Colorado. She's a contributing editor to Delicious! magazine.

For more information and recommendation regarding hay fever allergies, see:

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Hay Fever

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HERBAL PRODUCTS

EPHEDRA (Ma Huang): Chinese herbalists use Ma Huang during the early stages of respiratory infections and also for the short-term treatment of certain kinds of asthma, eczema, hay fever, narcolepsy, and edema. The Ephedra plant also has antiviral effects, particularly against influenza, severe colds, non-sweat fevers, joint pain, coughing and shortness of breath, bronchial asthma, flu, chills, headache, congestion and edema. Unlike using the isolated or synthesized ephedrine, using the whole plant in alternative medicine is much more effective and rarely gives rise to serious side-effects. With extreme caution, and under a health care provider's supervision, Ephedra is often used to enhance weight loss and to increase energy and endurance. Ma Huang comes in various forms and is an ingredient in many products. For best results, read and follow product label directions. Caution: is advised in using Ma Huang as an overdose can cause high blood pressure, racing of the heart, confusion, nervous stupor, twitching, convolutions and in serious cases even death. This herb should not be used by people who are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or suffering from high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, or dehydration. When exercising it is imperative to insure proper hydration, especially when using Ephedra. Do not take during pregnancy or while breast feeding. The synthetic form of Ephedra is a main constituent in Ephedrine and has given Ephedra a bad reputation due to its misuse. Ephedrine is seen as a performance-boosting herb but is a forbidden substance in many organized sporting events and athletics and banned in many jurisdictions for sale or use.

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GOLDENSEAL: Goldenseal is primarily used as a topical for wounds that are not healing well. Berberine, a constituent of Goldenseal, has shown strong activity against a wide variety of bacteria and fungi. Goldenseal is most effective by direct contact; however, it can also be effective for sore throats and the digestive tract problems because it can contact the affected area directly. Goldenseal has been used to treat urinary tract infections as well. As a topical treatment for skin wounds, use a sufficient quantity of Goldenseal cream, ointment, or powder to the affected area. Clean the wound at least once a day to prevent Goldenseal particles from being trapped in the tissues as they heal. For sore throats and mouth sores Goldenseal tincture can be swished or gargled in the mouth, or a tea can be used for this treatment as well. To aid the digestive tract or loosen clogged sinuses, a standard oral dosage of Goldenseal is 250 to 500 mg 3 times daily. Read Product label directions before use. Goldenseal is generally regarded as safe when used as directed; however, berberine has been reported to cause uterine contractions and to increase levels of bilirubin, therefore, Goldenseal should not be used by pregnant women. Safety in young children, nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease is not known.

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BURDOCK ROOT: Burdock Root is used as a food and medicine in cultures all over the world. It is traditionally used for skin disorders associated with adolescence. Burdock combines well with Red Clover, Yellow Dock, and Dandelion. Uses: Acne; Athlete's Foot; Blood; Bursitis; Calcium Deposits; Disinfectant; Eczema; Gangrene; Gout; Itching; Osteoporosis; Poison Ivy/Oak; Psoriasis; Rheumatism; Skin Disorders; Skin Irritations; & Swelling. Burdock comes in various forms and is an ingredient in many products. A standard dose of Burdock is 1 to 2 g of powdered dry root 3 times per day. For other formulations, read and follow product label directions. Burdock works well when combined with yellow dock, red clover, and cleavers.

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DANDELION: Dandelion leaves are commonly recommended as a food supplement for pregnant and post-menopausal women because of the numerous nutrients they contain. This plant produces a mild diuretic effect and reduces serum cholesterol levels. Dandelion root is used to improve appetite, minor digestive problems, and works as a milk laxative. Some modern naturopathic physicians believe that it can help detoxify the liver and gallbladder. Clinical trials have shown Dandelion to be effective in treating pneumonia, bronchitis and upper respiratory infections. It also helps with kidney function, pancreas, spleen, stomach, tinnitus, tonsillitis, osteoporosis, abscesses, anemia, boils, breast tumors, and cirrhosis of the liver, fluid retention, hepatitis, jaundice, rheumatism and warts. Dandelion may aid in prevention of age spots and works well in treating warts, fungus infections, and external and internal malignant growths. It is also used for treat skin problems such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and arthritis conditions. This plant is used for ulcerations of the urinary passages, obstructions of the liver, gallbladder, and spleen. The roasted Dandelion root can even be used as a coffee substitute. The German Commission E suggests the Dandelion Leaf for loss of appetite and dyspepsia, such as feeling of fullness and flatulence. This info was published in August of 92. Dandelion comes in various forms and is an ingredient in many products. For use as a tonic, take 3-5 grams of the dried root or 5-10 ml of a tincture from the root, 3 times a day. For use as a diuretic or appetite stimulant take 4-10 grams of the dried Dandelion leaves in 1 cup boiling water and drink 3 times a day. For other formulations, read and follow product label directions.

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ECHINACEA: Three species of the Echinacea herb are useful in medicine: Echinacea augustifolia, Echinacea purpurea, and Echinacea pallida. Research has shown that Echinacea increases production of interferon in the body, which helps increase antiviral activity against influenza (flu) and herpes, an inflammation of the skin and mouth. It is antiseptic and antimicrobial, with properties that act to increase the number of white blood cells available to destroy bacteria and slow the spread of infection. This herb is thought to be an immune stimulant. Taking this herb at the first sign of cold or flu symptoms can actually shorten the term of a cold or even abort it when caught early enough.

Echinacea is usually taken at the onset of a cold or flu and continued for 7 to 14 days. When using a powdered extract, take 300 mg 3 times a day. The standard dosage of an alcohol tincture (1:5) is 3 to 4 ml 3 times daily. For Echinacea juice, take 2 to 3 ml 3 times a day, and the whole root, 1 to 2 g, 3 times a day. Echinacea comes in many forms: Capsules, Tablets, Powder and Tincture, the best result is to follow the instructions on the package.

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YERBA MATE: Yerba Mate has been known to induce mental clarity, help sustain energy levels, and boost immune system. It works as an antioxidant, and has been used to improve digestion. Yerba Mate can aid in weight loss, and help reduce depression. It has also been used to help alleviate allergies, reduce blood pressure, and balance sleep cycles. Yerba Mate can be made hot or cold. Read product label directions for recommended use. Studies show that caffeine sensitive individuals can drink Yerba Mate with no adverse reactions.

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SPIRULINA: Spirulina is a microalgae that produces twenty times as much protein as soybeans growing on an equal-sized area of land. It contains high concentrations of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), linoleic and arachidonic acids, vitamin B12, iron, protein, essential amino acids, the nucleic acids RNA and DNA, chlorophyll, and phycocyanin, a blue pigment that is found only in blue green algae. Spirulina is digested naturally and helps protect the immune system, reduce cholesterol, and aid in the absorption of minerals. It has been used in the treatment of diabetes, glaucoma, liver pathologies, cancer, increasing neurotransmitter formation, and it acts as an appetite suppressant. For those with hypoglycemia, a Spirulina supplement can help regulate blood sugar levels in between meals. Spirulina can be taken in capsule or tablet form, or as the dried herb mixed in water. For best results, read and follow product label directions. There are no known safety issues or interactions associated with Spirulina when taken in the recommended doses.

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MILK THISTLE: Milk thistle extract is a potent antioxidant which prevents harm from free radicals and lends nutritional support to the liver. Milk thistle seed extract contains silymarin, a unique type of flavonoid-like compound considered the active ingredient of milk thistle.

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MULLEIN: Herbalists recommend hot Mullein tea for asthma, colds, coughs, sore throats, and bleeding of the lungs (tuberculosis) and of the bowels, though it is used more for its soothing effects rather than its ability to heal. This herb works well as an expectorant when combined with coltsfoot and thyme. It also helps give relief to those with emphysema, hay fever, and whooping cough. Breathing the steam of boiling Mullein tea can loosen congestion and mucus. When taken with catnip, this tea works well in treating tonsillitis, chickenpox, measles and mumps. Mullein made into a syrup can be given for palpitations, irregular heartbeat, angina, and other coronary conditions. The oil of this herb can be used to soothe the pain of ear infections. Externally, Mullein can be used to treat hemorrhoids, bruises, frostbite, diarrhea, erysipelas (streptococcus infections) and migraine. Mullein comes in various forms and is an ingredient in other products. For Mullein tea, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves and flowers to 1 cup of boiling water. Drink as needed for soothing relief. For children, take a 1/2 handful of dried or cut fresh Mullein leaves and flowers in 1 quart of boiling water. Let sit for 30 minutes and strain. Add 2 tablespoons of dark honey. Drink 1/2 cup of warm tea every 3 or 4 hours. To relieve the pain of ear infections (make sure the eardrum is not punctured), squeeze several drops of Mullein oil (room-temperature) into the ear canal. This only relieves the pain, it is not a cure for ear infection. For other formulations, read and follow product label directions.

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YERBA SANTA: Many herbalists today regard Yerba Santa as one of the most effective, natural ways to treat chronic bronchitis and asthma. No scientific studies of this herb have been performed; however, one of Yerba Santa's constituents, eriodictyol, does appear to be a mild expectorant. This herb can be used topically to treat poison ivy. To make Yerba Santa tea, add 1 teaspoon of crushed leaves to 1 cup of boiling water; however, many resinous constituents of this herb do not dissolve in water, therefore, alcoholic tinctures of Yerba Santa may be more effective. It is important to read and follow product label directions if using a tincture formulation. Drink 3 cups a day until symptoms diminish. For other formulations and products, read and follow product label directions. Yerba Santa is generally regarded as safe as a food flavoring by FDA standards, although there have been occasional allergic reactions. Safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease is not known.

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KAVA KAVA: The German Commission E recommends Kava for treating nervous anxiety, tension, and agitation. It is also used to relieve stress and reduce insomnia, tension headaches, and alcohol withdrawal. Kava is sometimes used as a local anesthetic. When combined with pumpkin seed, it is used in treating irritable bladder syndrome. Kava is used in Hawaii to reduce anxiety and fatigue, induce sleep, but is also used to treat asthma, arthritis pains, and urinary difficulties. Medical tests suggest it may be helpful in treating psychosomatic symptoms in menopause. In the South Sea Islands, Kava Kava is used as a calming and stimulating intoxicant. Taken in large quantities this herb produces a euphoric state. There are many forms of Kava and the quality varies with each manufacturer. Due to the nature of this herb, it is best to consult with a physician before using this herb for the treatment of your condition. Kava Kava is not intended for use by persons under the age of 18. If pregnant, nursing or taking a prescription drug, consult a health care practitioner prior to using Kava Kava. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Excessive consumption may impair ability to drive or operate heavy equipment. It is possible to experience side effects such as temporary yellowing of the skin, hair and nails. Persons who have liver disease or liver problems, or persons who are taking drug products that can affect the liver, should consult a health care provider before using Kava-containing supplements. Consumers who use a Kava-containing dietary supplement and who experience signs of illness associated with liver disease should also consult their health care provider.

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BLUE VERVAIN: Blue Vervain is used to treat jaundice, asthma, congestion, bronchitis, colds, fever, and flu. As an expectorant it helps loosen the expel phlegm from the throat and chest. Blue Vervain also acts as a sudorific, or agent that promotes sweating and thereby cools the body and reduces fevers. It clears congestion when there is wheezing. Blue Vervain is a mild laxative and has the overall effect of inducing relaxation. This herb has also been used as an analgesic to relieve earache, afterbirth pain, headache, intestinal cramps, and it promotes digestion. The standard dosage when taking a Blue Vervain tincture is 1/2 teaspoonful diluted in a glass of water, 3 times a day. For other formulations, read and follow product label directions. Blue Vervain is bitter, and while it stimulates digestion, it can cause vomiting when taken in high doses. Taken in the recommended doses, Blue Vervain is regarded as safe; however, safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease is not known.

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CHINESE LICORICE: Chinese licorice mainly comes from Glycyrrhiza uralensis. It is found in dry grassy plains, and sunny mountainsides from much of northern China, especially the Asian steppes to the west. Most of the supply comes from northwest China. Chinese licorice have been well studied. Up to 24 percent of the root weight is glycyrrhizin, the plant's major active component. Glycyrrhizin (also known as glycyrrhizic acid) is an extremely sweet glycoside, which foams in water. Glycyrrhizin has also shown estrogenic activity in laboratory animals, and is experimentally anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, and antibacterial. In China, licorice root is used as an antacid.



LICORICE: Licorice (Glycyrrhzin) used for HIV / AIDS increases T-cell counts and preserves immune function. General Uses: It is taken orally (DGL form) for ulcers, heartburn (esophageal reflux), and mouth sores. Other oral uses involving the whole herb is the treatment of coughs, asthma, and chronic fatigue syndrome. In its topical form (whole herb), Licorice can be used for eczema, psoriasis, and herpes. Scientific studies suggest regular use of DGL can heal ulcers as well as some over the counter medications; however, they must be taken regularly or the ulcer will return. For Ulcer Pain - chew two to four 380-mg tablets of DGL before meals and at bedtime in conjunction with conventional medical care. For Mouth Sores - Sucking on the tablets will relieve the pain. For best results, follow the directions listed on the label. For Respiratory Problems - Take orally 1 to 2 g of licorice root 3 times daily, not to exceed a week. For Eczema, Psoriasis, or Herpes - Apply licorice cream to affected area twice daily. For Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - This treatment must be taken under a health care provider's supervision to be given the needed dosage for the best possible effects. Caution: Do not use licorice if you have glaucoma, high blood pressure, or an estrogen-dependent disorder such as breast cancer, endometriosis, or fibrocystic breasts. Caution: Do not use licorice on a daily basis for more than seven days in a row. Avoid it completely if you have high blood pressure. Consume potassium-rich foods such as bananas or citrus juices, or take a potassium supplement daily when taking this herb. For HIV/AIDS - Take Glycyrrhizin Tablets, 50-75 mg daily. Use for 6 weeks, then take a 2-week break. Do not substitute deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL).

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GARLIC: The Europeans use this herb as an all-around treatment for preventing atherosclerosis, the cause of heart disease and strokes. Scientific studies found that certain forms of Garlic lowered blood pressure and total cholesterol levels. Early scientific studies propose regular use can help prevent cancer. Garlic is an effective antibiotic when it contacts the tissue directly. Garlic has also been suggested as a treatment for asthma, colds, and diabetes. Garlic suppositories work very well as a remedy for women experiencing yeast infections such as candida. Eating two raw Garlic cloves a day are adequate for most purposes, but a standard dosage of Garlic is 900 mg daily of a garlic powder extract standardized to contain 1.3% alliin. When Garlic is crushed or cut, allinase, an enzyme, is brought in contact with alliin, turning it into allicin, which then breaks down into several different compounds. When purchasing Garlic, look for a 4 to 5 mg of "allicin potential" for best results. Garlic suppositories can be used for treating yeast infections. You can make the suppositories using a clove of peeled garlic. Wrap gauze around the Garlic and insert inside the vaginal cavity. Every three to five hours, replace with a fresh suppository, and repeat for three to five days until the infection is gone. Garlic capsules can be used instead of the suppositories to treat yeast infections as well.

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CAYENNE (Capsicum): Cayenne Pepper contains beta-carotene; beta-ionone, citric acid, hesperidin, imonen, lutein, and quercetin just to name a few. It also contains capsaicin, which reduces pain and inflammation. When combined with other herbs, Cayenne Pepper helps increase their effectiveness by helping them enter the blood stream faster. Capsaicin can also stimulate and then desensitize the warmth detectors in the hypothalamus gland so that a drop in body temperature is evident. This enables natives in hot southern climates like Central and South America and Africa, to tolerate the heat a lot better than we would. Cayenne Pepper has been known for its ability to aid in digestion, improve circulation, and reduce or stop bleeding from stomach ulcers. Taken internally it stimulates circulation and induces sweating to breed a fever. Some native people of Thailand believe that eating Cayenne everyday helps reduce blood cots. Herbalists recommend it to treat colds and infectious diarrhea, arthritis and rheumatism. There is scientific evidence that suggests adding Cayenne Pepper to meals boosts vitamin C levels and revs up the metabolism. This pepper is also used with lobelia to help soothe nerves. It is beneficial for the heart, kidneys, lungs, pancreas, spleen, and stomach. In naturopathic medicine, Cayenne Pepper is combined with lemon juice, and salt to relieve even the worst sore throat pain for up to 4 hours. It also fights viral infection. When applied topically in a lotion or salve Cayenne works to soothe muscle aches and pains associated with arthritis, rheumatism, backache, strains and sprains. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Capsaicin for pain caused by shingles, an adult disease that is caused by the virus that causes chicken pox in children. Such over-the-counter (OTC) creams as Zostrix or Heet contain capsaicin and are applied externally to treat rheumatic and arthritic pains, cluster headaches, diabetic foot pain, fibromyalgia, and post-herpetic nerve pain. These creams usually contain 0.025-0.075% capsaicin. In 2002 there was some research done that helped to determine Capsaicin's pain relieving effects. Creams that contain the compound lowered pain in arthritis sufferers' hands by 40% when used four times a day. A study done for pain from long-term shingles found that 77% of the people had reduced pain after using the cream for four months. The study also said that Capsaicin containing ream is less expensive and safer than other painkillers used for the same conditions. Cayenne Pepper comes in various forms and is an ingredient in many products. For taking capsules, the recommended daily dose is 1 capsule 2 to 3 times a day. Adults and children two and above can safely use it topically 3 to 4 times a day. For treating a sore throat, combine the juice of one-half lemon or lime with one full tablespoon of salt. Stir both into one-half cup of lukewarm distilled water. Stir in one-quarter teaspoon of Cayenne pepper. Gargle as needed, but do not swallow.

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GINKGO BILOBA: The extract is good for the brain cells and circulation. In Germany, Ginkgo is the most widely prescribed herb, as it is considered to be as effective as drug treatments used for treating Alzheimer's disease and other severe forms of memory and mental function decline. Preliminary studies show that this herb is helpful in ordinary age-related memory loss as well. Germany's Commission E recommends Ginkgo for circulation problems that arise from hardening of the arteries. Some studies are showing promise in Ginkgo's ability to reverse impotence or difficulty achieving orgasm when caused by certain antidepressant drugs. Chinese research suggests this herb can improve the effectiveness of schizophrenia medications and possibly limit their side effects as well. Another study shows that Ginkgo is beneficial in relieving the bloating and fluid retention as well as the emotional disturbance associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Many people have used Ginkgo for macular degeneration, depression, complications of diabetes, and Raynaud's phenomenon; however, there is no evidence to support its effectiveness. It is also beneficial for asthma, dementia, depression, eczema, headaches, heart and kidney disorders, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). This herb can ease symptoms of altitude sickness as well. As a topical medication, Ginkgo is used to treat lesions on the fingers, toes, heels, ears, and nose caused by exposure to extreme cold, and using Ginkgo in wound dressings can improve circulation in the skin and promote quick healing. The recommended dosage of Ginkgo is 40 to 80 mg 3 times daily of a 50:1 extract standardized to contain 24% Ginkgo-flavone glycosides. For best results, consult with your health care provider for the treatment of your condition.

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HerbalRemedies: Ginkgo Biloba Extract, Standardized, Nature's Way, 60 mg, 120 Vcaps

HerbalRemedies: Ginkgo Biloba Herbal Tea, 20 Tea Bags

HerbalRemedies: Ginkgold MAX, Ginkgo Biloba Extract, Vegetarian, Nature's Way, 120 mg, 60 Tabs

HerbalRemedies: Ginkgo Leaf Powder, 4 oz. Bulk

HerbalRemedies: Ginkgo Leaf Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

VALERIAN: In the 1970s, scientific human studies were performed on Valerian which lead the German Commission E to approve its use a sleep aid in 1985. This herb works well in treating depression, panic attacks, emotional stress, PMS, menstrual cramps, and despondency. It is also used for hypochondria, nervous headaches, migraine headaches, irritability, hysteria, and mild spasmodic affections. Valerian has been used to treat diarrhea, epilepsy, croup, convulsions, vertigo, nervous cough, delirium, neuralgia, muscle cramps, gas pains, stomach cramps, spasms, palpitations, gas, and colic. For treating insomnia, the recommended dosage of Valerian Root is 2 to 3 g of dried herb, 270 to 450 mg of an aqueous valerian extract, or 600 mg of an ethanol extract, taken 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. For the best results, take this herb over an extended period of time. Try the same dosages for treating anxiety, or reduce the dose and take twice daily. Note: These dosages are meant to be used as guidelines. Always read product label directions before use.

Mountain Rose Herbs: Valerian, Organic Bulk Herbs

HerbalRemedies: Valerian Root, 530 mg, 100 Vcaps

HerbalRemedies: Valerian Root Tincture (Valeriana officinalis), Alcohol Free w/Glycerin, 100% Organic, 1 fl. oz.

HerbalRemedies: Valerian Root Standardized Extract, 510 mg, 90 Caps

HerbalRemedies: Valerian Root Powder, 100% Organic, 4 oz. Bulk

HerbalRemedies: Valerian Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

NETTLE: Nettle Root is widely used in Europe for the treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate enlargement. Based on a preliminary study at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon, Nettle leaf has become a popular treatment of allergies (hay fever), but is also used to help with goiter, inflammatory conditions, rheumatism and arthritis. This herb helps cleanse the body of toxins and wastes. Nettles can relieve fluid retention, bladder infections, stones and gravel. Externally, it can be used on cuts and wounds, hemorrhoids, nosebleeds, and for soothing and healing burns and scalds. Nettle is used in some hair care products to help stimulate hair follicles and regulate scalp oil buildup. In its cooked form, Nettle is highly nutritious and may be used as a general dietary supplement and is especially good for those who are convalescing, anemic, or elderly. Nettle comes in various forms and is an ingredient in many products. The recommended dosage of Nettle root, according to Commission E, is 4 to 6 g daily of the whole root, or an equal dose of concentrated extract. The effectiveness in using Nettle root to treat prostate problems is believed to be enhanced when taken with saw palmetto or pygeum. The proper dosage for allergies is 300 mg twice a day of freeze-dried Nettle leaf. For other formulations, it is best to read and follow product label directions.

Mountain Rose Herbs: Nettle, Organic Bulk Herbs

HerbalRemedies: Nettle Herb, Nature's Way, 435 mg, 100 Caps

HerbalRemedies: Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica) Powder, 4 oz.

HerbalRemedies: Nettle Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

HerbalRemedies: Nettle Leaf Tea, NOW Foods, Organic, 30 Tea Bags

ST. JOHN'S WORT: This herb contains two substances, hypericin and pseudohypericin, that inhibit retroviral infections and could be useful in the treatment of AIDS. General Information: St. John's Wort is mainly used for the treatment of mild to moderate depression. It can also be used for chronic insomnia and anxiety related to depression. St. John's Wort may also be effective in relieving seasonal affective disorder (SAD). St. John's Wort extract is usually standardized to the substance hypericin. The recommended dose of St. John's Wort is 300 mg 3 times a day of an extract standardized to contain 0.3% hypericin; however, a few new products on the market are standardized to hyperforin content of 2 to 3%, instead of hypercin, and should be taken at the same dosage. If the herb bothers you, take it with food. It can take four weeks of usage to receive the full benefits of St. John's Wort. Caution: Individuals with HIV have an increased risk for sunburn and should avoid this herb. This herb may increase the chance of developing sun blisters if you are out in the sun too long. If you decide to use this herb, avoid sun exposure. Do not use St. John's Wort if you are on prescription antidepressants or any medication that interacts with MAO inhibitors. Use with caution during pregnancy.

Mountain Rose Herbs: St. John's Wort, Organic Bulk Herbs

HerbalRemedies: St. John's Wort, 350 mg, 180 Caps

HerbalRemedies: St. John's Wort, Standardized Extract, Nature's Way, 300 mg, 90 Caps

HerbalRemedies: St. John's Wort Herb Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

HerbalRemedies: St. John's Wort Herbal Tea, 20 Tea Bags

EYEBRIGHT: Although neglected nowadays by the many physicians, modern herbalists still retain faith in this herb and recommend its use in eye infections, weakness of the eyes, and ophthalmia. Eyebright contains astringal substances that are probably slightly antibacterial, but Germany's Commission E does not necessarily recommend using it. Warm water compresses have been shown to be equally effective under the same conditions. Eyebright tea is sometimes used to treat jaundice, respiratory infections, and memory loss, although there is no evidence that it works for those conditions. A recommended dose is an infusion of one ounce of the herb to a pint of boiling water, bathing the eyes three or four times a day. For intense pain, a warm infusion is more desirable to use until the pain is gone. For other uses, the cold application is found sufficient. Eyebright can cause tearing of the eyes, itching, redness, and many other symptoms. It appears to be safe when taken internally, but few studies have been performed. Safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease is not known.

Mountain Rose Herbs: Eyebright, Organic Bulk Herbs

HerbalRemedies: Eyebright Herb, Nature's Way, 430 mg, 100 Caps

HerbalRemedies: Eyebright, Nature's Way, 455 mg, 100 Caps

HerbalRemedies: Eyebright Herb Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

EUCALYPTUS: Distilled Eucalyptus has been used externally and internally for ailments from fever, whooping cough, bronchial and throat infections, discharges, wounds and ulcers. The oil has been known to be effective against flu, staph and strep. Germany's Commission E recommends using a spray of Eucalyptus to soothe a sore throat. It has also been used as a room disinfectant. Eucalyptus Oil is even given to horses with influenza, dogs with distemper, and to all animals with septicaemia. If using the essential oil in tea, use no more than a drop and only use Eucalyptus globulus. For other uses, read product label directions. Eucalyptus oil is generally regarded as safe when taken in the recommended doses; however, it is best to consult with a health care provider for use of Eucalyptus essential oil internally. If you are pregnant, nursing, epileptic, have liver or kidney damage, or have cancer, do not use this or any essential oil without the guidance of a qualified health care provider. Not recommended for use by young children.

Mountain Rose Herbs: Eucalyptus, Organic Bulk Herbs

HerbalRemedies: Eucalyptus Oil, 100% Pure, NOW Foods, 1 fl. oz.

HerbalRemedies: Eucalyptus Leaf Tincture, 85% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

GOTU KOLA: In the 1970s, Italian and other European researchers found evidence that Gotu Kola significantly improved the symptoms of varicose veins such as the overall discomfort, tiredness, and swelling; however, it is not thought to do much for the appearance of veins that are badly damaged. It has been suggested that hemorrhoid sufferers could use Gotu Kola for the treatment of their symptoms since hemorrhoids are a type of varicose vein. Gotu Kola is also used to improve memory and can be beneficial to Alzheimer's patients. It is also still used to heal wounds and alleviate the symptoms of scleroderma. This plant has also been used to help treat high blood pressure, abscesses, rheumatism, fever, ulcers, leprosy, skin eruptions nervous disorders and jaundice. The fresh leaves can be given to children for dysentery. An extract of the oil is used to promote hair growth. Gotu Kola is known to thin the blood, and, in large dosages, can help lower blood sugar levels. Gotu Kola comes in various forms and is an ingredient in many products. For making a tea take 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaf to 150 ml of boiling water. Let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink 3 cups per day. In tincture form, take 10-20 ml 3 times per day. Extracts that contain 100% total triterpenoids are usually taken as 60 mg once or twice per day. For other formulations, read and follow product label directions. Gotu Kola appears to be safe when taken in the recommended doses. Side effects are rare and include the occasional allergic skin rash; however, there are some concerns that Gotu Kola may be carcinogenic if applied directly to the skin. Do not take while pregnant or nursing. Safety in those with severe liver or kidney disease is not known. If you are taking any medications (prescription or over-the-counter), it is best to consult with your health care provider before using this herb for the treatment of your condition.

Mountain Rose Herbs: Gotu Kola, Organic Bulk Herbs

HerbalRemedies: Gotu Kola, Nature's Way, 475 mg, 180 Caps

HerbalRemedies: Gotu Kola Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.

PEPPERMINT: As a home remedy, Mint is used for indigestion, flatulence, and colic. Chewing fresh Mint leaves will get rid of stale breath. Mint tea works well in treating colds, sore throat, minor mouth or throat irritations, headaches and migraines, diarrhea, heartburn, nausea, and stomachache. Peppermint oil has been recognized by Germany's Commission E as effective in treating colicky pain in the digestive tract, specifically irritable bowel syndrome, and in relieving mucus congestion of the lungs and sinuses caused by colds and flu. Some evidence suggests it might be helpful for gallstones and in treating candida infections, but results are not complete at this time. Menthol has antispasmodic qualities that may help relieve menstrual cramps. It is also found in products used for the relief of muscle aches, sprains, and similar conditions. Mint and Menthol comes in various forms and is an ingredient in numerous products. When treating irritable bowel syndrome the recommended dosage of Peppermint oil is 0.2 to 0.4 ml 3 times a day of an enteric-coated capsule. Using capsules that are enteric-coated will prevent stomach distress. For other uses and formulations it is best to read product label directions. There are no known safety issues or interactions associated with Mint or Menthol; however Menthol is considered an antidote for many homeopathic remedies and should be avoided by those taking the remedies. Taken in normal doses, enteric-coated Peppermint oil is believed to be fairly safe in healthy adults. Peppermint oil can be toxic if normal doses are exceeded. An excessive intake of Peppermint oil will produce nausea, loss of appetite, heart problems, loss of balance, and other nervous system problems. Safety in young children is unknown; however, it is known to cause jaundice in newborn babies, so it is not recommended for colic. Effects in pregnant and nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease is not known.

Mountain Rose Herbs: Peppermint, Organic Bulk Herbs

HerbalRemedies: Heather's Tummy Tea, Organic Peppermint, 36 Tea Bags

HerbalRemedies: Peppermint Leaf (Mentha x piperita), Powder, 4 oz. Bulk

HerbalRemedies: Peppermint Oil, Enteric Coated, Nature's Way, 60 Softgels

HERBAL OILS

PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL:

Mountain Rose Herbs: Peppermint Essential Oil, 100% Organic, Your Choice of Size - 1 oz. to 16 oz.

Mountain Rose Herbs: Sage Essential Oil, 100% Organic, Your Choice of Size - 1/2 oz. to 16 oz.

HerbalRemedies: Peppermint Oil (Mentha piperita), NOW Foods, 100% Pure, 4 fl. oz.

HerbalRemedies: Peppermint Oil (Mentha piperita), NOW Foods, 100% Pure, 1 fl. oz.

SAGE ESSENTIAL OIL:

Mountain Rose Herbs: Sage Essential Oil, 100% Organic, Your Choice of Size - 1/2 oz. to 16 oz.

HerbalRemedies: Sage Essential Oil (Salvia officinalis), NOW Foods, 100% Pure, 1 fl. oz.

LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL:

Mountain Rose Herbs: Lavender Essential Oil, 100% Organic, Your Choice of Size - 1/2 oz. to 16 oz.

HerbalRemedies: Lavender Essential Oil, NOW Foods, 100% Pure, 4 fl. oz.

EUCALYPTUS ESSENTIAL OIL:

Mountain Rose Herbs: Eucalyptus Essential Oil, 100% Organic, Your Choice of Size - 1/2 oz. to 16 oz.

HerbalRemedies: Eucalyptus Essential Oil, NOW Foods, 100% Pure, 1 fl. oz.

JUNIPER BERRY ESSENTIAL OIL:

Mountain Rose Herbs: Juniper Berry Essential Oil, 100% Organic, Your Choice of Size - 1/2 oz. to 16 oz.

HerbalRemedies: Juniper Berry (Juniperus communis) Essential Oil, NOW Foods, 100% Pure, 1 fl. oz.

TEA TREE OIL:

Mountain Rose Herbs: Tea Tree Essential Oil, 100% Organic, Your Choice of Size - 1/2 oz. to 16 oz.

HerbalRemedies: Tea Tree Essential Oil, NOW Foods, 100% Pure, 4 fl. oz.

HerbalRemedies: Tea Tree Essential Oil, NOW Foods, 100% Pure, 1 fl. oz.

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RECOMMENDATIONS

Rotate your foods. Eat a different group of foods for each of four days and then repeat the cycle. You can select as many of the foods allowed on a specific day as you like, but it is essential that no type of food be ingested more often than every four days.

If you suffer from ragweed allergy (or other weed allergies) do not eat melon, cantaloupe, cucumber, bananas, sunflower seeds, chamomile, or any herbal preparation containing echinacea. These substances contain the same proteins as ragweed and can add to the symptoms during an episode.

See Detecting Your Food Allergies and fill out the Food Sensitivity Questionnaire. Then omit from your diet for 30 days any food you have listed as consumed 4 times per week or more.

Avoid the following foods until it is determined you are not allergic to them: bananas, beef products, caffeine, chocolate, citrus fruits, corn, dairy products, eggs, oats, oysters, peanuts, processed and refined foods, salmon, strawberries, tomatoes, wheat, and white rice.

Follow a fasting program. After a fast, you can try adding back the "foods to avoid" in very small amounts, such as 1 teaspoon at a time. Record your reactions after eating. If you feel bloated or have a slight headache, an upset stomach, gas, diarrhea, a rapid pulse, or heart palpitations after eating certain foods, eliminate them again in small amounts. If you experience a reaction again, eliminate them from your diet permanently.

Avoid mucus-producing foods, such as dairy products, sugar, wheat, and food additives (see below).

Avoid any food products that contain artificial color, especially FD&C Yellow No.5 dye. Many people are allergic to food colorings. Other food additives to avoid include vanillin, benzyldehyde, eucayptol, monosodium glutamate, BHT-BHA, benzoates, and annatto. Read labels carefully.

Take the Hypothyroid Underarm Temperature Test to determine if you have an under active thyroid. Also see Hyperthyroidism.

Be sure to take only hypoallergenic supplements, as these do not contain potentially irritating substances.

Keep rooms free from dust and use a dehumidifier in the basement. Use mold-proof paint and a disinfectant on walls and furniture.

Do not smoke, and avoid secondhand smoke.

Avoid taking aspirin within 3 hours of eating.

For airborne allergies, try using an air purification device. The Air Supply personal air purifier from Wein Products is a miniature unit that is worn around the neck. It sets up an invisible pure air shield against microparticles (including dust, pollen, and pollutants) and microorganisms (such as viruses, bacteria, and mold) in the air. It also eliminates vapors, smells, and harmful volatile compounds in the air. The Living Air XL-15 unit from Alpine Air of America is an ionizing unit that is good for purifying the air in the home or workplace.

Purchase an air filter with fine enough filtering capability, such as the HEPA filter, to clean pollen, molds, and dust from your home or office. Standard air filters sold in most stores do not filter pollen. Make sure any filter purchased states on its label that it is suitable for filtering pollen and mold spores.

Depending on the severity of your allergies be sure to wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts when spending time outside. Change your clothes and shower as soon as you return indoors. For some, using a "high efficiency" mask (available in drug stores and medical supply stores) may be advisable.

Pollen counts in the late summer are highest between 5 AM and 10 AM, so schedule your gardening and other outdoor activities with this in mind. You can learn what trees and plants are pollinating around you and what the mold and pollen count is by contacting the National Allergy Bureau.

If you are a chronic allergy sufferer, avoid exercising outdoors.

On windy days, when more pollen is blown through the air, try to avoid going outside if your allergies are severe. The best time for you to be outdoors is after a rainstorm, when pollen levels drop significantly.

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NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

Unless otherwise specified, the dosages recommended here are for adults. For a child between the ages of 12 and 17, reduce the dose to 3/4 the recommended amount. For a child between 6 and 12, use 1/2 the recommended dose, and for a child under the age of 6, use 1/4 the recommended amount.

NUTRIENTS
Supplement	Suggested Dosage	Comments
Anti-Allergy Formula From Freeda Vitamins	As directed on label.	A combination of quercetin, calcium pantothenate, and calcium ascorbate (vitamin C).
Bee Pollen	Start with a few granules at a time and work up to 2 teaspoons daily.	Strengthens the immune system. Use raw crude pollen, preferably produced within 10 miles of your home. Caution: Bee pollen man cause an allergic reaction in some individuals. Discontinue use if a rash, wheezing, discomfort, or other allergic symptoms occurs. Zesta Bee Pollen Granules, 100% Natural, 8.825 oz., Bee Pollen, Comvita, 500 mg, 100 Caps, Bee Pollen Granules, Fresh American, 16 oz., Bee Pollen Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz., Bee Pollen, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps
Calcium	1,500-2,000 mg daily.	Needed to help reduce stress. Use calcium chelate form. Calcium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 700 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Liquid Calcium W/ConcenTrace, Orange Vanilla, Trace Minerals, 1000 mg, 32 fl. oz., Cal-Mag Pre-Chelated Calcium & Magnesium, Vital Earth, 240 Gelcaps
And Magnesium	750 mg daily.	Needed to balance with calcium. Magnesium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 350 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Just An Ounce Calcium & Magnesium Liquid, Almond Flavor, 16 fl. oz., Calcium & Magnesium Mineral Complex, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 500 mg / 250 mg, 250 Caps
Inositol Hexaphosphate (IP-6) (Cell Forte From Enzymatic Therapy)	As directed on label.	Supports the immune system. Inositol (Vitamin B-8), 100% Natural, Pure Crystalline, Nature's Way, 500 mg, 100 Caps, Cell Forte, MAX3 IP-6 & Inositol Plus Maitake & Cat's Claw, Enzymatic Therapy, 120 UltraCaps.
Kyolic Super Formula 102 Wakunaga	50 mg 3 times daily.	Powerful immune enhancer with digestive enzymes. For improved digestion.
Liquid Kyolic With B-1 & B-12 Wakunaga	As directed on label.	An excellent cell protector.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)	As directed on label.	Has anti-allergic properties equal to or better than those of antihistamines. MSM Supplement (Methylsulfonylmethane), 1000 mg, 120 Caps Pure Lignisul W/ Free 4 oz. Lotion, MSM Liquid (Methylsulfonylmethane), Pure Lignisul, 16 fl. oz.
Coenzyme A Coenzyme A Technologies	As directed on label.	Supports the immune system's detoxification of many dangerous substances. Pantethine (Coenzyme A Precursor), Highly Active Form of Vitamin B-5, NOW Foods, 300 mg, 60 Softgels,
Multi-Enzyme Complex Or Pancreatin	As directed on label. Take with meals.	For improved digestion. Caution: If you have a history of ulcers, do not use a formula containing HCl. Super Digestive Enzymes, 90 Caps, Pancreatin 4X, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps
Raw Adrenal And Raw Spleen And Raw Thymus Glandulars	500 mg each twice daily.	To stimulate proper immune function. Adrenal Cortex, Organic Glandular, Hypoallergenic, Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 100 Caps, Adrenal, Organic Glandular, Hypoallergenic, Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 75 Caps, Thymus Organic Glandular, Hypoallergenic, Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 75 Caps, Immuno-Gland Plex, Organic Glandular (Adrenal, Pancreas, Thymus, Spleen), 125 mg each gland, Hypoallergenic, Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 60 Caps
Vitamin B Complex	100 mg daily.	Needed for proper digestion and nerve function. Use a high-stress formula. Consider injections. Ultimate B (Vitamin B Complex), Nature's Secret, 60 Tabs, Vitamin B-100 Complex, w/ Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 631 mg, 100 Caps,
Plus Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B-5) And Vitamin B-12	100 mg 3 times daily. 300 mcg 3 times daily.	Needed for proper assimilation of nutrients. Use a lozenge or sublingual form. Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic Acid), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 250 mg, 100 Caps, Vitamin B-12 Complex Liquid, NOW Foods, 2 fl. oz., Vitamin B-12, Nature's Way, 2000 mcg, 100 Sublingual Lozenges, Vitamin B-12 Liquid Supplement, 50 mcg, With Vitamin B-9 (Folic Acid), 400 mcg, 1 oz., Vitamin B-12, California Natural, 1000 mcg, 60 Tabs, Vitamin B-12 LipoSpray, NOW Foods, 2 fl. oz.
Vitamin C With Bioflavonoid	500 mg daily.	Stimulates kidney function. Vitamin C Liquid w/ Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, Dynamic Health, 1000 mg, 16 fl. oz., Ester C With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 90 Tabs, Vitamin C 1000 With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 Vcaps, The Right C, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 120 Tabs
Natural Carotenoid Complex (Betatene)	As directed on label.	Free radical scavengers that stimulates immune response. Beta Carotene (Natural Dunaliella Salina), Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 25,000 IU, 100 Softgels, Multi-Carotene Antioxidant, Nature's Way, 60 Softgels
Quercetin (Quercetin-C)	500 mg twice daily.	Increases immunity and decreases reactions to certain foods, pollens, and other allergens. Quercetin, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Vcaps, Quercetin W/Bromelain, Hypoallergenic Bioflavonoid, NOW Foods, 800 mg, 120 Vcaps,
Plus Bromelain	100 mg twice daily.	Enhances absorption of quercetin. Quercetin W/Bromelain, Hypoallergenic Bioflavonoid, NOW Foods, 800 mg, 120 Vcaps, Bromelain, 2000 GDU, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 90 Tabs
Or Activated Quercetin From Source Naturals	As directed on label.	Contains quercetin plus bromelain and vitamin C.
Acidophilus	As directed on label. Take on an empty stomach for easier access into the small intestine.	Helps to maintain healthy intestinal flora. Use a non-dairy formula. Acidophilus Supplement Powder, Non Dairy, 3 oz. Bulk, Acidophilus, 3 Billion, NOW Foods, 90 Tabs, Lactobacillus Acidophilus Supplement, Non Dairy, 100 Caps, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Kosher Liquid, All Natural, Vegetarian Medium, Lactose Free, Apple Strawberry Flavor, Dynamic Health, 16 fl. oz.
Aller Bee-Gone From CC Pollen	As directed on label.	A combination of herbs, enzymes, and nutrients designed to fight acute allergy attacks.
Coenzyme Q-10	100 mg daily.	Improves cellular oxygenation and immune function. CoQ-10, 100% Pure Powder, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 1 oz., CoQ-10, Liquid, NOW Foods, 100 mg/teaspoon, 4 oz., CoQ-10, Liquid, W/Trace Minerals, 50 mg/teaspoon, 4 fl. oz.
Free-Form Amino Acid Complex	As directed on label.	Supplies protein in a form that is rapidly absorbed and assimilated. Use a sublingual form. AMINO 1000 Complete, NOW Foods, 120 Caps, Branched Chain Amino Acid Powder, NOW Foods, 12 oz., Amino 1500, Chewable Blend of 20 Amino Acids, Predigested, NOW Foods, 150 Tabs, Branched Chain Amino Acids, Free Form, 120 Caps
Germanium	60 mg daily.	Stimulates the immune system. Germanium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 50 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Organic Germanium (Hypoallergenic), Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 150 mg, 50 Caps
Glucosamine Sulfate Or Acetylglucosamine (N-A-G from Source Naturals)	As directed on label.	Important for regulating the mucous secretions of respiratory system. N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG), Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 90 Caps, Glucosamine Sulfate Powder, NOW Foods, 6 oz., Gluco Matrix, Organic, 98% Bio-Available for Absorption, 32 fl. oz.
L-Cysteine And L-Tyrosine	500 mg twice daily, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin B-6 and 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption.	Promotes healing from respiratory disorders. Helpful for stress and allergic disorders. L-Cysteine Structural Support W/Vitamin B-6 & C, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps, L-Tyrosine, Pharmaceutical Grade, Free Form, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 120 Caps
Manganese	4 mg daily for 3 months. Take separately from calcium.	An important component in many of the body's enzyme systems. Use manganese chelate form. Manganese Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 30 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.
Multi-Vitamin & Mineral Complex	As directed on label.	All nutrients are needed in balance. Use a hypoallergenic formula. Super Multi-Vitamin & Multi-Mineral, Pure Vital Earth, 32 fl. oz. (98% Bio-Available for Absorption), Damage Control Master Formula, High Potency, Multi-Vitamin & Mineral, 60 Packets (30 Day Supply),
Potassium	99 mg daily.	Necessary for adrenal gland function. Use potassium protinate or potassium chelate form. Potassium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 340 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Potassium, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 99 mg, 100 Caps
Proteolytic Enzymes Or Infla-Zyme Forte from American Biologics	As directed on label. Take between meals or an empty stomach.	To aid digestion and destroy free radicals. Caution: Do not give these supplements to a child. MetabolicZyme (Hypoallergenic), Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 900 Tabs
Vitamin A	10,000 IU daily.	Necessary for proper immune function. Vitamin A, 10,000 IU, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 100 Softgels
Vitamin E	600 IU daily.	Necessary for proper immune function. Ester E Natural Vitamin E, California Natural, 400 IU, 60 Softgels, Vitamin E, 400 IU, 100% Natural, NOW Foods, 100 Gels, Vitamin E-1000, NOW Foods, 1000 IU, 100 Gels, Vitamin E, d-alpha-tocopherol, 400 IU, 100 Softgels,
Zinc	50 mg daily.	Necessary for proper immune function. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements. Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Colloidal Silver & Zinc Lozenges, Silva Solution, 90 Lozenges, Zinc Lozenges W/ Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges, Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps
Vitamin D	600 IU daily.	Essential in calcium metabolism. Vitamin D, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 400 IU, 100 Caps

ALLERGY SUPPLEMENTS

Information and supplements for allergies, a condition that occurs when the body's immune system responds negatively to a substance that is not usually considered harmful.

ABC of Asthma, Allergies and Lupus: Eradicate Asthma, Now!, by F. Batmanghelidj, M.D. This informative book presents a new discovery that unintentional dehydration causes many painful, degenerative diseases. It explains the direct relationship between water deficiency in the body and allergies, asthma and lupus.

AllergEase Herbal Tea, 20 Tea Bags Use AllergEase Herb Tea to regulate the immune system, especially in allergy conditions that effect the sinuses and to remove wind-heat.

Allergy Care, 60 mg, 20 Caps, Nature's Way Allergy Care clears nasal and sinus passages for temporary relief of stuffiness, sinus congestion, and sinus pressure due to allergies, hay fever, sinusitis or other upper respiratory allergies.

Allergy Free: Alternative Medicine Definitive Guide, By Konrad Kail, Bobbi Lawrence, Burton Goldberg This Book explores dozens of clinically tested natural options for treating allergies, and includes patient success stories of alleviating allergies without drugs.

Allergy Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. This herbal allergy remedy can be used as a preventative and to help lessen the symptoms of allergies and hayfever.

Allergy Hayfever, Nelson Bach, Homeopathic 84 Pills, Formerly Aller-Away Aller-Way is a homeopathic remedy for the symptomatic relief of hay fever and sinus allergies.

Allergy Support for Children, Seasonal Aller-g-Ease, 4 fl. oz. Childlife's Aller-g-Ease seasonal provides nutritional and herbal support for children during the allergy season. It is an all-natural formula.

Allergy Support Formula, TheraVedas Ajay, 60 Vcaps Supports proper histamine levels.

Amalaki (Dhatri), 100% Natural, 450 mg, 120 Vcaps An Ayurvedic effective against allergies, anemia, cold & flu, constipation, diabetes, digestive disorders, and liver problems.

Bee Pollen Granules, Fresh American Bee Pollen, 16 oz. Fresh Bee pollen contains much more protein per ounce than any other natural food and it is the only food that contains the 22 amino acids of the human body.

Bee Propolis Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Bee Propolis, a resin collected from plants by bees and used in the construction of hives, is a medicinal marvel of the hive. Research shows it has antiseptic, antibiotic, antibacterial, antifungal, and even antiviral properties.

Black Seed Herbal Honey, Energizing, 16 fl. oz. A sensational blend of honey and herbs in three different formulations that offer a natural boost of energy, immune support, or relaxation that's great for anyone who wants to enjoy the benefits of Black Seed without taking capsules or oil. This rich tasting honey can be added to tea, smoothies, shakes, or deserts, and may be used in cooking.

Brigham Tea, 415 mg, 100 Caps Brigham Tea was used anciently to promote circulation.

Coral Calcium (Okinawa) Plus w/ Magnesium & Vitamin D, 100% Natural, 500 mg, 100 Vcaps Okinawa Coral Calcium Plus with Magnesium, Vitamin D and 70 other trace minerals provides essential minerals, restores body alkalinity, supports the immune system, and is bio available for better absorption.

Eucalyptus Oil, 100% Pure, 1 fl. oz. Eucalyptus Oil is a strong antiseptic. Eucalyptus Oil is used as an inhalant for asthma, diphtheria, sore throats, sinus and respiratory problems.

Flax Protein / Fiber / Lignan Cold Milled Powder Plus Omega 3, Certified Organic, 16 oz. With 6g Fiber/300mg Lignan/5g Protein (including 18 amino acids) per serving, Nature's Way EFAGold is one of nature's richest sources of protein, fiber & essential fatty acids.

Flax Seed, Whole, Certified Organic, 1 lb. Bulk Flax Seeds are an important source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, including Omega-3, plus Magnesium, Zinc and dietary fiber. Flax oil from flax seeds is the richest known source of linolenic acid.

Grape Seed Extract, 350 mg, 90 Caps A very powerful antioxidant, this standardized Grape Seed Extract helps maintain capillary health, and has the ability to neutralize free radicals.

HAS (Hayfever Allergy Sinus) Fast Acting Formula, +30 mg, 100 Caps HAS (Hayfever Allergy Sinus) Fast Acting Formula is for the temporary relief of nasal and sinus congestion due to the common cold, hayfever or other upper respiratory allergies.

Hypo Allergenic Multiple Vitamin Mineral, 180 Caps NutriBiotic Hypo-Allergenic Multivitamin Mineral is for people concerned about common food born antigens. This formula is a balanced blend of the purest bio-nutrients available.

Liquid Multi Vita-Mineral, Orange Mango, Trace Minerals, 32 fl. oz. The most complete all-in-one liquid vitamin daily supplement that combines the benefits of multiple vitamins with the advantages of ionic minerals and trace minerals to replace those needed minerals not found in processed foods.

MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane), Pure Lignisul, with Vitamin C, 875 mg / 100 mg, 120 Caps MSM with Vitamin C offers support for allergies, connective tissue, joint flexibility, immune function, arthritis, osteoporosis, digestive disorders, circulation,bruising, carpal tunnel syndrome, and antioxidant protection.

Nasaline Salt, 8 oz. Jar This pure non-iodized salt is for use with Nasaline or possibly a Neti Pot.

Neti Pot, Clay Nasal Pot According to ayurveda, a nasal pot helps to promote the removal of excess mucus due to congestion, rid nostrils of pollen and other allergens and cleanse the nasal membranes.

Neti Pot, Stainless Steel Nasal Pot According to ayurveda, a neti pot helps to promote the removal of excess mucus due to congestion, rid nostrils of pollen and other allergens and cleanse the nasal membranes.

Noni Juice Concentrate (Morinda citrifolia), 1 fl. oz. Noni comes from the family Rubiaceae making it a relative of Samento or Uncaria Tomentosa and complimentary in use.

Noni Juice, Trace Minerals, 32 fl. oz. Trace Minerals Noni Juice product may provide nutritional support for Bio-Electric Health and Body Mineral Balancing.

NutriBiotic Nasal Spray, with Grapefruit Seed Extract, 1 fl. oz. Nasal Spray is useful to aiding many conditions. During allergy season it helps to re-moisturize the nasal passages and clean them of dust, dirt, dander and other allergens. The nasal spray is also useful during a bout of sinusitis, or inflammation and infection of the sinus passages.

Oregon Breeze Essential Oil, 2 fl. oz. Oregon Breeze Oil helps relieve headache and sinus pain and reduces allergy symptoms.

Rooibos, 100% Natural, 350 mg, 60 Caps Rooibos contains potent anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties packed with selenium, vitamin A, C, E and magnesium.

Sinus and Lung Congestion Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 8 fl. oz. The Sinus & Lung Congestion Formula was created to help clear the lungs and sinuses of congested matter.

Sinus Clikpak Tube, Nelson's Homeopathic, 84 Pellets All natural, safe and highly effective homeopathic medicine for relief of nasal congestion, sinus pressure and sinus headache associated with sinusitis or colds.

Sinustop, 20 Caps Sinustop is for fast and effective temporary relief of congestion and sinus pressure due to the common cold, allergies, or sinusitis.

Snore Stop Allergy Formula, 20 Chewable Tabs Snore Stop Allergy Formula Tablets are specially formulated to stop or reduce snoring symptoms associated with allergies and hay fever.

The Miracle of MSM: The Natural Solution for Pain By Stanley W. Jacob M.D., Ronald M. Lawrence MD & Martin Zucker Learn how to stop the pain of numerous ailments with MSM. How much, when, with what food and in what form to relieve pain in its many forms. Helpful against pain and allergies, this supplement is safe, natural and side-effect-free.

Violet Leaf Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Violet leaf can be used for coughs, sore throats, asthma, tumors, acne, swollen glands and headaches.

Vitamin C 1000 with Bioflavonoids, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 Vcaps Nature's Way Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.

Yerba Mate Tea Royale w/ Stevia, 25 Tea Bags Yerba Mate Tea Royale is widely regarded as an excellent appetite suppressor when consumed 15 to 20 minutes before meals.

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HerbalRemedies: Allergy Information

HerbalRemedies: Allergy Supplements & Products

HerbalRemedies: Insect Allergy Information

HerbalRemedies: Insect Allergy Supplements & Products

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ALLERGY RESOURCES

The Allergy Report
A manual for primary health care professionals
(800) 822-2762
Copies: $22
www.theallergyreport.org

AllergyWeb
www.allergyweb.com

American Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology (AAAAI)
611 E. Wells Street
Milwaukee, WI, 53202
(404) 272-6071 or (800) 822-2762
www.aaaai.org

American Academy of Dermatology
930 N. Meacham Rd.
Schaumburg, IL 60173
(847) 330-0230 or (888) 462-DERM (3376)
www.aad.org

American Academy of Ophthalmology
P.O. Box 7424
San Francisco, CA 94120-7424
(415) 561-8500
www.aao.org/news/eyenet

American Academy of Pediatrics
www.aap.org/

The American Association of Immunologists
9650 Rockville Pike
Bethesda, MD 20814
(301) 530-7178
E-mail: infoaai@aai.faseb.org
www.aai.org

American Board of Allergy and Immunology
(215) 592-9466
E-mail: abai@abai.org
www.abai.org

American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI)
85 West Algonquin Road, Suite 550
Arlington Heights, IL 60005
(847) 427-1200 or (800) 842-7777
http://allergy.mcg.edu

American College of Chest Physicians
3300 Dundee Rd.
Northbrook, IL 60062-2348
(847) 498-1400 or (800) 343-2227
E-mail: accp@chestnet.org
www.chestnet.org/

American College of Physicians
American Society of Internal Medicine
190 N. Independence Mall West
Philadelphia, PA 19106-1572
(215) 351-2600 or (800) 523-1546 ext. 2600
www.acponline.org/

American Dietetic Association
1225 W. Jackson Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60606-6995
(312) 899-0040
www.eatright.org

American Lung Association (National Office)
61 Broadway, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10006
(212) 315-8742 or (800) LUNG-USA (586-4872)
E-mail: info@lungusa.org
www.lungusa.org

American Thoracic Society (ATS)
Medical Section of the American Lung Association
1740 Broadway
New York, NY 10019-4374
(212) 315-8700
E-mail: jcorn@lungusa.org
www.thoracic.org

The Anaphylaxis Campaign
www.Anaphylaxis.org

AsmaNet
www.remcomp.com/asmanet/

Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA)
1125 Fifteenth Street
Washington, DC, 20005
(202) 466-7643 or (800) 7-ASTHMA (727-8462)
E-mail: info@aafa.org
www.aafa.org

Asthma and Allergy Information Association
65 Tromley Dr., Suite 10
Etobicoke, Ontario, M9 8 5Y7
(905) 712-2242


I Breathe
Site sponsored by GlaxoSmithKline
www.ibreathe.com

Clinical Immunology Society
www.clinimmsoc.org

Food Allergy Awareness Support and Training Inc.
www.FAASTCincy.org

The Food Allergy Network
10400 Eaton Place, Suite 107
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 691-3179 or (800) 929-4040
E-mail: fan@worldweb.net
www.foodallergy.org

Food Allergy Research and Resource Program
http://farrp.unl.edu/

Food Anaphylactic Children Training and Support Associations
www.allergyfacts.org.au

Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)
www.ginasthma.com

Health Talk Interactive: Asthma Education Network
www.healthtalk.com/aen/index.html

Immune Deficiency Foundation
25 W. Chesapeake Ave., Suite 206
Towson, MD 21204
(410) 321-6647 or (800) 296-4433

The Joint Council of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
50 N. Brockway, Suite 3.3
Palatine, IL 60067
(847) 934-1918
E-mail: JCAAI@aol.com
www.jcaai.org

National Advisory Allergic and Infectious Disease Council
9000 Rockville Pike
Bethesda, MD 20892
(301) 496-5717

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
National Asthma Education Program and Prevention Program
NHLBI Information Center
P.O. Box 30105
Bethesda, MD 20824-0105
(301) 251-1222
www.nhlbi.nih.gov

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
NIAID Office of Communications and Public Liaison
Building 31, Room 7A-50
31 Center Drive MSC 2520
Bethesda, MD 20892-2520
www.niaid.nih.gov

Northwest Asthma & Allergy Center
(800) 437-4055
E-mail: info@nwasthma.com
www.nwasthma.com

LOCAL RESOURCES Tufts New England Medical Center John Ohman, M.D. FACP Chief, Allergy Department 750 Washington Street Boston, MA 02111 Phone: 617-636-5333 Fax: 617-636-4843 John Ohman, M.D. FACP Daniel Steinberg, M.D. Chestnut Hill Medical Center 25 Boylston Street (Route 9 in Chestnut Hill next to Legal Seafood) Chestnut Hill, MA 02467 Phone: 617-232-1690 E-mail: johman@tufts-nemc.org Webpage: www.nemc.org/medicine/ohman.htm

DROP-YOUR-ALLERGIES: IMMUNOTHERAPY DROPS Drop-Your-Allergies ImmunoTherapy Drops from Primary Physician Diagnostics LLC, a health care provider based, patient focused allergy services company. Custom formulated based on what you are allergic to. Drug free, natural under-the-tongue allergy-asthma therapy. Child and adult friendly. Allergy Kit available and more allergy information available. See link below for more information. Drop-Your-Allergies.com: Immuno Therapy Drops For Allergy Treatment

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READING LIST

Allergies A to Z
By Myron A. Lipkowitz, RP, MD
Facts on File, Inc.
Department M274
11 Penn Plaza
New York, NY 10001
(212) 290-8090 or (800) 322-8755

Allergies, Disease in Disguise: How to Heal Your Allergic Condition
By Carolee Bateson-Koch
Alive Books, 1994
4728 Byrne Rd.
Burnaby, BC, CAN V5J3H7
(604) 438-1919
ISBN: 0929430422

Allergy Plants That Cause Sneezing and Wheezing
By Mary Jelks, MD
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
1125 15th St. NW, Suite 502
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 466-7643
www.aafa.org

Allergy, Asthma and Immunology From Infancy to Adulthood
By Warren Bieman, et al.
W.B. Saunders Company, 1995
Independence Square West
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 238-7800
ISBN: 0721655874

Best Guide to Allergy
By Nathan Schultz, Allan Giannini, Terrace Chang
Humana Press, 1994
3554 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 200
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 385-4403

Essential Allergy
By Niels Mygind, et al.
Blackwell Scientific Publications
3 Cambridge Center
Cambridge MA 02142
(617) 225-0401

Human Exposure Assessment for Airborne Pollutants: Advances and Opportunity; and Indoor Allergens: Assessing & Controlling Adverse Health Effects
National Academy Press
2101 Constitution Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 334-3313

Manual of Allergy & Immunology
By Glenn J. Lawlor, Jr., et al.
Little Brown & Company, Inc., 1994
34 Beacon St.
Boston, MA 02108
(617) 227-0730

Sinus Survival: A Self-Help Guide for Allergies, Bronchitis, Colds and Sinusitis
By Robert S. Ivker
J.P. Tarcher, 1995
5858 Wilshire, Suite 200
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(213) 935-9980
ISBN: 0874776848

Sneezing Your Head Off? How to Live With Your Allergic Nose
By Peter Boggs, MD
Allergy and Asthma Network/Mothers of Asthmatics
3554 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 200
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 385-4403 or (800) 878-4403

You Can Do Something About Your Allergies
By Nelson L. Novick
MacMillan Publishing, 1994
866 Third Ave.
New York, NY 10022
ISBN: 0025907859

CHILD ALLERGIES

Cooking For The Allergic Child
By J. Moyer

Complete Book of Children's Allergies
By B.R. Feldman, MD

Taming Asthma and Allergy By Controlling Your Environment
By Robert A. Wood, MD
ISBN: 0964327201

Children With Asthma: A Manual for Parents
By Thomas E. Plaut, MD
Allergy Control Products
96 Danbury Rd.
P.O. Box 793
Ridgefield, CT 06877
(203) 438-9580 or (800) 442-3878
www.allergycontrol.com

FOOD ALLERGIES

Diets to Help Gluten and Wheat Allergy
By Rita Greer
Harper Collins Canada Limited/Order Dept.
1995 Markham Rd.
Scarborough, ON, M1B 5M8, IT
(800) 387-0117
ISBN: 0722529104

Food Allergy: A Primer for People
By S. Allan Bock, MD
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
1125 15th St. NW, Suite 502
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 466-7643
www.aafa.org

Your Food-Allergic Child: A Parent's Guide
By Janet E. Meizel
National Allergy and Asthma Network
3554 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 200
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 385-4403 or (800) 878-4403

ASTHMA

A Parent's Guide to Allergies and Asthma
By Marion Steinmann

Asthma Resource Directory
By Carol Rudoff, MA

Understanding Asthma: The Blueprint for Breathing National Allergy and Asthma Network
3554 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 200
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 385-4403 or (800) 878-4403

All About Asthma and How to Live With It
By Glennon, Paul, MD, and Barbara Fafoglia
Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., New York

Ask the Doctor: Asthma
By Vincent Frieldewald, MD
Andrews McMeel Publishing
P.O. Box 419150
Kansas City, MO 64141
(816) 932-6700 or (800) 826-4216
ISBN: 0836270231

Asthma: The Complete Guide; One Minute Asthma ... What You Need to Know
By Thomas F. Plaut, MD
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
1125 15th St. NW, Suite 502
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 466-7643
www.aafa.org

Asthma and Exercise
By Nancy Hogshead and Gerald S. Couzens
Henry Holt and Company, 1990
3554 Chain Bridge Rd., Suite 200
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 385-4403 or (800) 878-4403

Asthma in the Workplace
By Bernstein, et al.
John H. Dekker & Sons, 1993
2941 Clydon St., SW
Grand Rapids, MI 49509
(616) 538-5160
ISBN: 0824787994

The Asthma Organizer; and School Information Packet Allergy and Asthma Network/Mothers of Asthmatics
3554 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 200
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 385-4403 or (800) 878-4403

Breathing Disorders: Your Complete Exercise Guide
By Neil F. Gordon, MD, PhD, MPH
Human Kinetics, 1993
P.O. Box 5076
Champaign, IL 61825
(217) 351-5076 or (800)747-4457
ISBN: 0873224264

Breathing Easy With Day Care; A Parent's Guide to Asthma; Consumer Update on Asthma
By Nancy Sander
Allergy and Asthma Network/Mothers of Asthmatics
3554 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 200
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 385-4403 or (800) 878-4403

Bronchial Asthma: Principles of Diagnosis and Treatment
By Eric M. Gershwin and Georges Halpern
Humana Press, 1994
Crescent Manor
Clifton, NJ 07015
(973) 773-4389
ISBN: 0896032531

Conquering Asthma: An Illustrated Guide to Understanding and Care for Adults
By Michael T. Newhouse and Peter J. Barnes
Login Publishers Consortium, 1997
1436 W. Randolph St.
Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 733-8228

Coping With Asthma
By Carolyn Simpson
Rosen Publishing Group

Let's Talk About Having Asthma
By Elizabeth Weitzman
Rosen Publishing Group's PowerKids Press
29 E. 21st St.
New York, NY 10010
(212) 777-3017 or (800) 237-9932

Diets to Help Asthma and Hay Fever
By Roger Newman Turner
Harper Collins Canada Limited/Order Dept.
1995 Markham Rd.
Scarborough, ON, M1B 5M8, IT
(800) 387-0117
ISBN: 0722529112



ALLERGY LINKS

MoonDragon's Alternative Health Information: Diagnostic Techniques - Nutritional Testing

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Hay Fever

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, Poison Sumac

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Sulfite Allergies

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Detecting Your Hidden Food Allergies

MoonDragon's Nutrition Information: The Rotation Diet For Allergies

MoonDragon's Nutrition Information: Gluten Restricted Diet

MoonDragon's Nutrition Information: Allergy Diet

MoonDragon's Nutrition Information: Food Allergies Links



NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...

You have allergies or suspect allergies and may need professional consultation and allergy testing.

You have any increase of symptoms or other signs of allergies.

You have any unexpected or unusual symptoms. Some people may have sensitivity, allergies, or other health conditions which would prevent them from using certain herbs or other treatments.

USE YOUR EPINEPHRINE KIT IF YOU HAVE A SUDDEN INTENSE REACTION TO ANY ALLERGEN SUBSTANCE AND IMMEDIATELY GO TO YOUR NEAREST HOSPITAL EMERGENCY ROOM FOR ASSESSMENT. THIS CAN BE LIFE-THREATENING!

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The Complete Guide to Natural Healing



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