DESCRIPTION



Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is an allergic response to pollen (the male component of the plant reproductive system), mold (a type of fungus that is usually found in damp, dark indoor areas like the basement or bathroom), or other microscopic substances that affects the mucous membranes of the nose, eyes, and air passages.

---

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Your body's immune system interprets the allergen (pollen, mold, dander, etc.) as an "invader" and responds by releasing a chemical called histamine into the bloodstream. Histamine causes inflammation (swelling and redness) of the sinuses, nose, and mucus membranes of the eyes and triggers sneezing. The swelling reaction is designed to block the allergen from entering the body and sneezing is a method to expel it out of the body. Histamine also allows fluids to enter the nasal tissue, resulting in congestion, itching, and a runny nose.

People with hay fever have sudden:

• Itchy, puffy eyes.
  
• Watery discharge from the nose (runny nose) and eyes (watery or teary eyes).
  
• Sneezing.
  
• Congestion.
  
• Nervous irritability.
  
• Fatigue.

Symptoms can occur at all stages of life, but most people develop hay fever before reaching 30 years of age.

Many of the symptoms of hay fever are similar to those of the common cold. However, allergies cause a distinctive clear, thin, watery nasal discharge, whereas secretions caused by colds usually become thick and yellow-green as the illness progresses. Also, colds are often associated with mild fever and are usually gone within a week, while allergy sufferers often have a feeling of being "wiped out" for weeks on end.

---

CAUSES

Hay fever affects 10% to 20% of the U.S. population and is the most common allergy in the country. It is unknown why some people get allergies while others do not. However, there is some evidence to suggest that hay fever is hereditary (passed on from parents to children). People who suffer from asthma or eczema are also more likely to develop hay fever.

While the pollen seasons for particular plants are very consistent within each geographical region, the weather plays a large role in determining how heavy the pollen count will be, both seasonally and daily. Usually, pollen counts are highest on warm, dry, and breezy mornings and lowest on rainy, cooler days. The severity of your allergic reaction will generally mirror the rise and fall of the pollen count.

At least 22 million Americans suffer from the seasonal sneezes, runny nose, and itchy eyes that come with hay fever. There are actually three hay fever seasons, distinguished by the different types of pollen present at different times.

• Tree pollens appear first, usually between February and May, depending on the local climate.
  
  
• The biggest problems come later in spring and in summer when both tree and grass pollens - and people - are out at the same time.
  
  
• The fall is ragweed pollen season.
  
  
• Hay fever can also be caused by fungus/mold releasing its reproductive cells, called spores, from late March until November.

Depending on which pollen or pollens an individual is allergic to, hay fever may be present at any or all of these times.

People who suffer from hay fever often also suffer from other so-called atropic disorders, such as asthma and dermatitis. Those who suffer from hay fever symptoms throughout the year are said to have perennial rhinitis. The symptoms may be triggered by animal hair (dander), dust (dust mites), feathers, fungus/mold spores, or some other environmental agent. These irritants can be found in pillows, down clothing, draperies, upholstery, thick carpeting, and bedding. It is common for people to be allergic to more than one pollen or agent.

People prone to allergies are most often aware of the time of year and conditions under which they are most sensitive. For a definitive diagnosis, the radioallergosorbent (RAST) test is easily done and gives reliable results.

---

PREVENTION

Allergy-Proof Your Environment

Medicines help treat allergy symptoms once they strike, but there are several steps you can take to prevent symptoms altogether. The following recommendations can help you avoid allergy triggers whether you're at home, outdoors, or out on the town.

At Home

• Keep windows closed and use air conditioning if you're allergic to pollen. Don't use fans since they can stir up dust.
  
• Filter the air. Cover air conditioning vents with cheesecloth to filter pollen and use a high efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) if you have a forced air furnace. Clean air filters frequently and air ducts at least once a year.
  
• Keep the humidity in your house below 50% to prevent mold growth.
  
• If you have pets, consider keeping them outside or perhaps ask someone else to take care of them. Animal dander and saliva are common allergens for many people. If you must keep your pets indoors, do not allow them in the bedroom and be sure to bathe them often.
  
• Avoid areas where molds may collect, including basements, garages, crawl spaces, barns, and compost heaps. Have someone else clean these areas often.
  
• Install dehumidifiers or steam vaporizers in basements and other areas of the house where molds tend to collect. Clean these devices every week.
  
• Air out damp clothes and shoes (in the house) before storing.
  
• Remove laundry from the washing machine promptly. Don't leave wet clothes in the washer where mold can quickly grow.
  
• Wash shower curtains and bathroom tiles with mold-killing solutions.
  
• Don't collect too many indoor plants as soil encourages mold growth.
  
• Store firewood outside.
  
• Use plastic covers for pillows, mattresses, and box springs. Avoid overstuffed furniture and down-filled bedding or pillows.
  
• Wash your bedding every week in hot water.
  
• Don't allow smoking in your house.
  
• Wear a mask and gloves when cleaning, vacuuming, or painting to limit dust and chemical exposure.
  
• Vacuum twice a week.
  
• Limit throw rugs to reduce dust and mold. If you do have rugs, make sure they are washable.
  
• When possible, choose hardwood floors instead of carpeting. If you must have carpeting, choose low-pile material.
  
• Avoid dust-collecting Venetian blinds or long drapes. Replace old drapes with window shades instead.
  
• Make sure there is an exhaust fan over the stove to remove cooking fumes.

In the Car

• Keep windows closed and set the air conditioner to use recirculated air if you are allergic to pollen.
  
• Don't permit smoking in the car.

Outdoors

• Minimize walks in wooded areas or gardens.
  
• Check the forecast. Stay indoors as much as possible on hot, dry, windy days when pollen counts are generally the highest.
  
• Try to avoid extreme temperature changes - they are triggers for some people with asthma.
  
• If possible, stay indoors between 5 and 10 a.m. when outdoor pollen counts are usually highest.
  
• Wear a mask (such as an inexpensive painter's mask) when mowing the lawn if you are allergic to grass pollen or mold. Avoid mowing and being around freshly cut grass if possible.
  
• Wear a mask when gardening, as flowers and some weeds release pollen and can cause allergy symptoms.
  
• Avoid raking leaves or working with hay or mulch if you are allergic to mold.
  
• After being outdoors, take a shower, wash your hair, and change your clothes to remove pollen that may have collected in your clothes and hair.
  
• To protect yourself from insect stings, wear shoes, long pants and sleeves, and do not wear scented deodorants, perfumes, shampoos, or hair products.
  
• Don't hang clothes or linens out to dry, as pollen and molds may collect in them and can make your allergies worse.

Traveling

• Pack your medicines with you in your carry-on bag.
  
• Bring an extra supply of medicines in case you need them.

Staying in a Hotel

• Ask for a nonsmoking room.
  
• Remove feather pillows and ask for synthetic, non allergenic pillows - or bring your own plastic pillow cover from home.
  
• If possible, keep the vent on the room air conditioner shut.

Dining

• Eat in smoke-free restaurants.
  
• For food allergies, avoid the foods that cause your allergy symptoms by carefully reading ingredient labels and asking about the food preparation methods when dining out. Choose fresh foods rather than prepared or processed foods. If you have severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis, carry an epinephrine injection kit with you at all times.

For Children in School

• Discuss your child's allergies with school personnel.
• If your child suffers from food allergies, discuss them with school officials, teachers, and lunchroom staff.
• Educate your child about his/her allergies early, so your child can learn to avoid situations where he or she may eat a food that will trigger an allergic reaction. Arrange for an epinephrine kit to be left at the school, and make sure school officials (and your child when they are old enough) are able to use it correctly.
• Inform school personnel about the medicines your child is taking and make arrangements to leave necessary medicines at school.
• Encourage sports participation, but inform coaches of medicines that may need to be taken before activities.

The nutrient program outlined below is beneficial for hay fever. Hay fever sufferers should always choose hypoallergenic supplements.

DIAGNOSIS

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?

Physical Examination

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 my 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.

---

CONVENTIONAL MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR HAY FEVER

The most effective treatment is simply to avoid the allergen. Air conditioner filters remove 99% of airborne pollen. Face masks, similar to those worn by surgeons, can significantly reduce the amount of allergen you inhale while outdoors.

If you have eye allergies, try wearing wraparound or goggle-type sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollens. If you are exposed to pollen, wash your eyes and your eyeglasses frequently with soap and water. Use cool compresses to relieve eye symptoms. Ask your health care provider about over-the-counter and prescription drugs that can provide relief.

Effective drug therapies for hay fever include antihistamines that block the chemical that causes symptoms, cromolyn which prevents the mast cells (a type of blood cell) from releasing histamine, and topical nasal steroids that decrease swelling and inflammation.

Antihistamines: Nonprescription antihistamines such as Benadryl or Chlor-Trimeton are generally effective for treating mild cases of hay fever. Antihistamines don't prevent the release of histamine, but they do prevent some of the chain reactions triggered by histamine, which in turn reduces symptoms. But antihistamines can cause drowsiness. They should not be taken when driving a car, drinking alcohol, or while taking other drugs that cause drowsiness. However, the prescription antihistamines Allegra, Claritin, and Clarinex do not cause drowsiness. Astelin is an antihistamine in nasal spray form that is now available to treat the symptoms of hay fever.

Decongestants: Over-the-counter decongestants (either pills, drops, or sprays), such as Neo-Synephrine and Sudafed, help unblock nasal passages and improve breathing. But a note of caution: Over-the-counter nasal sprays or drops can, after a few days, start to have the opposite effect and may make congestion worse; they can also become addictive.

Cromolyn: This drug inhibits one of the cell types involved in the allergic reaction. The over-the-counter form of this medication is Nasalcrom. Unlike some other medicines, the effects of cromolyn take approximately two weeks to be felt. On the plus side, it is used for long-term treatment and has few side effects.

Steroid nasal sprays: Prescription nasal sprays such as Rhinocort, Beconase, Flonase, Vancenase, Nasonex, and Nasalide can effectively limit reactions to allergens.

Saline nose sprays: Salt water, saline nose sprays help clean out allergens caught in the nasal passages and keep the passages moist.

Eye drops: All of the medicines mentioned above also come in eye-drop form to relieve allergy-related eye problems. See Allergic Conjunctivitis (Pinkeye) for more information.

Before using any over-the-counter drugs, make sure you discuss with your health care provider how they may affect other medicines you may be taking.

ALLERGY SHOTS (IMMUNOTHERAPY)

Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, is a treatment method designed to increase your tolerance to the substances that trigger your symptoms. They won't cure your allergies, but they'll reduce your sensitivity to certain substances. The allergen is injected periodically into your upper arm at increasingly larger doses. The injections continue until your body builds the production of antibodies and your immune system no longer considers the allergen an invading agent; this usually takes three to five years.

Allergy shots have shown positive results in people with extreme hay fever and are usually recommended for people who suffer from allergies more than three months each year.

---

ALLERGY MEDICATIONS

There is no cure for allergies, but there are several types of medicines available -- both over-the-counter and prescription -- to help ease annoying symptoms like congestion and runny nose. These include antihistamines, decongestants, combination medicines, corticosteroids, and others.

Antihistamines have been used for years to treat allergy symptoms. They can be taken as pills, liquid, nasal spray, or eye drops. Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops can relieve red itchy eyes, while nasal sprays can be used to treat the symptoms of seasonal or year-round allergies.

Examples of antihistamines include:

• Over-the-counter: Benadryl, Claritin, Chlor-Trimeton, Dimetane, and Tavist. Ocu-Hist is an OTC eye drop.
• Prescription: Clarinex, Allegra, and Zyrtec. Atarax, Vistaril, Astelin are prescription nasal sprays. Eye drops include Emadine and Livostin for allergic conjunctivitis.

When you are exposed to an allergen, such as ragweed pollen, it triggers your immune system to go into action. Immune system cells in your nose and sinuses then release a substance called histamine, which attaches to receptors in blood vessels located in nasal tissues, causing them to enlarge. Histamine also binds to other receptors located in nasal tissues, causing redness, swelling, itching, and changes in nasal secretions. By blocking histamine receptors, antihistamines prevent these symptoms.

Many over-the-counter antihistamines have side effects associated with them. These may include drowsiness. Non-sedating antihistamines are available by prescription.

Decongestants relieve nasal congestion and are often prescribed along with antihistamines. They come in nasal spray, eye drop, or pill form. Nasal spray and eye drop decongestants can be used for only three days, since long-term use can make symptoms worse. Pills may be taken long-term safely.

Some examples of decongestants include:

• Over-the-counter: Actifed, Neo-Synephrine, Sudafed, Afrin nasal spray, and Visine eye drops.
• Prescription: Naphcon and Allerest eye drops. Other prescription decongestants are drugs like Claritin-D that combine a decongestant with another allergy medicine.

During an allergic reaction, tissues in your nose swell in response to contact with the allergen; that swelling produces fluid and mucous. Blood vessels in the eyes also swell, causing redness. Decongestants shrink swollen nasal tissues and blood vessels to relieve the symptoms of nasal swelling, congestion, mucous secretion, and redness.

Decongestants may raise blood pressure, so they are not recommended for people who have blood pressure problems or glaucoma. They may also cause insomnia or irritability, and restrict urinary flow.

Combination Medicines. Some allergy medicines contain both an antihistamine and a decongestant to relieve multiple symptoms. There are also other combinations, such as those between an allergy medicine and asthma medicine and an antihistamine eye drop with a mast cell stabilizer drug (see below).
,br> Some examples of combination medicines include:

• Over-the-counter: Benadryl Allergy and Sinus, Tylenol Allergy and Sinus, and Dimetapp.
• Prescription: Allegra-D, Claritin-D, Semprex-D, and Zyrtec-D for nasal allergies. Naphcon-D, Opcon-A, Occuhist, Vasocon, Zaditor, Patanol, and Optivar for allergic conjunctivitis.

Corticosteroids reduce inflammation associated with allergies. They prevent and treat nasal stuffiness, sneezing, and itchy, runny nose due to seasonal or year-round allergies. They can also decrease inflammation and swelling from other types of allergic reactions. Corticosteroids are available as pills, for serious allergies or asthma, inhalers, for asthma, nasal sprays, for seasonal or year-round allergies, creams, for skin allergies, or as an eye drop, for allergic conjunctivitis. Often, a health care provider will prescribe a corticosteroid in addition to other allergy medications, for treatment of severe allergy symptoms.

The drugs are highly effective, but they must be taken daily to be of benefit, even when you aren't feeling symptoms. In addition, it may take one to two weeks before the full effect of the medicine can be felt.

Some corticosteroids include:

• Nasal corticosteroids: Beconase, Rhinocort, Flonase, Nasonex, and Nasocort, used to treat nasal allergy symptoms.
• Inhaled corticosteroids: Beclovent, Pulmicort, Flovent, and Asthmacort, used to treat asthma. Advair is an inhaled drug that combines a corticosteroid with another drug to treat asthma. Inhaled corticosteroids are available only with a prescription.
• Eye drops: Dexamethasone, Alrex.
• Oral steroid: Deltasone, also called prednisone.

Corticosteroids have many potential side effects, especially when given orally and for a long period of time.
Side effects with short-term use include:

• Weight gain
• Fluid retention
• High blood pressure

Side effects with long-term use include:

• Growth suppression
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Cataracts of the eyes
• Bone thinning osteoporosis
• Muscle weakness

Side effects of inhaled corticosteroids may also cause cough and yeast infections of the mouth.

Bronchodilators are inhaled medicines used to control asthma symptoms. They are available over the counter ( Primatene Mist Inhaler) and as prescription (see below). A short-acting bronchodilator is used to provide quick relief for asthma symptoms during an attack. Long-acting bronchodilators can provide up to 12-hours of relief from asthma symptoms, which is helpful to people who suffer from nighttime asthma problems.

Bronchodilators relax the muscle bands that tighten around the airways. This rapidly opens the airways, letting more air in and out of the lungs, improving breathing. Bronchodilators also help clear mucus from the lungs. As the airways open, the mucus moves more freely and can be coughed out more easily. Generally one or two puffs of the inhaler relieve the wheezing and chest tightness associated with a mild attack. It may be necessary to take more puffs for severe attacks.

Some types of prescription bronchodilators include:

• Ventolin, Proventil, Volmax
• Brethaire
• Tornalate
• Xopenex
• Alupent, Metaprel
• Maxair

Bronchodilators are potent drugs. If overused, they can cause dangerous side effects such as high blood pressure and a fast heartbeat. Prescription bronchodilators are available in hand-held inhalers or may be given as liquid doses using a nebulizer. Non-prescription Primatene is also available in tablet form.

Mast Cell Stabilizers. Mast cell stabilizers are used to treat mild to moderate inflammation in the bronchial tubes and are available only with a prescription. These medications can be used to prevent asthma symptoms during exercise and can be given before exposure to an allergen when it cannot be avoided. Mast cell stabilizers come in a nasal spray and like many drugs it may take several weeks before the full effects are felt.

Some examples of mast cell stabilizers include:

• Intal
• Tilade
• Crolom
• Alomide
• Alocril
• Opticrom
• Alamast

Its unclear how mast cell stabilizers work. Side effects of mast cell stabilizers include throat irritation, coughing, or skin rashes sometimes can occur with Crolom treatment. Some people say that Tilade has a bad taste. Using a spacer to take the medicine and drinking juice following treatment may decrease the taste.

Leukotriene Modifiers. Leukotriene modifiers are used to treat asthma and nasal allergy symptoms. They are often prescribed along with an inhaled corticosteroid for treatment of mild persistent asthma. These medications are available only by prescription and come as pills or chewable tablets.

Some brand names include:

• Accolate
• Zyflo
• Singulair

Leukotriene modifiers block the effects of leukotrienes, chemicals produced in the body in response to an allergy. Leukotriene modifier side effects include:

• Stomach pain or stomach upset
• Heartburn
• Fever
• Stuffy nose
• Cough
• Rash
• Headache

Other Over-The-Counter Medications. Salt-water solution, or saline, is available as a nasal spray to relieve mild congestion, loosen mucus, and prevent crusting. They contain no medicine. Artificial tears, which also contain no medicine, are available to treat itchy, watery, and red eyes.



Allergy shots (Immunotherapy). Immunotherapy, or allergy shots, may be the most effective form of treatment if you suffer from allergies more than three months of the year. These shots expose you to gradually increasing levels of the offending allergen that provoke allergy symptoms to help your immune system build tolerance. Immunotherapy may be used to gradually increase your ability to tolerate allergens. They do not cure allergies, but reduce your sensitivity to certain substances. However, these don't always work for every person. Discuss allergy shots/immunotherapy with your health care provider before deciding to go this route. This can take several years of treatment and can be very expensive and time consuming (office visits may be 2-3 times per week).

Allergy shots are given regularly (in the upper arm), with gradually increasing doses. When starting immunotherapy, you should go to your health care provider no less than every 8 days for about 40 weeks. The dose is increased each time until the maintenance dose is reached. If the shots are effective, you will go to your health care provider every 2 to 4 weeks for 2 to 4 more years. You may become less sensitive to allergens during this time, and your allergy symptoms will become milder and may even go away completely.

To prepare for the shots: For two hours before and after your appointment, do not exercise or engage in vigorous activity. Exercise may stimulate increased blood flow to the tissues and promote faster release of antigens into the bloodstream.

Tell your health care provider if you are taking a beta-blocker or monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) medication. These medications can interfere with the treatment needed if you have an allergic reaction after receiving the allergy shot. You may have to stop allergy shots if you are taking these medications.

Talk to your health care provider about the safety of continuing the allergy shots if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

After receiving the shot, usually, you will be monitored for about 30 minutes to make sure that you don't develop side effects such as itchy eyes, shortness of breath, runny nose, or tight throat. If you develop these symptoms after you leave the health care provider's office, take an antihistamine and go back to your health care provider's office or go to the nearest emergency room. Redness, swelling, or irritation within one inch of the site of the injection is normal. These symptoms should go away within 4 to 8 hours after receiving the shot.

The effectiveness of immunotherapy varies depending on the severity of a person's allergies and the number of substances to which the person is allergic. In general, however, immunotherapy is effective for allergies to stinging insects, a variety of pollens and dust mites, as well as for allergic asthma. It is less effective for molds and pet dander, and is not proven to be effective for hives or food allergies.

After receiving your allergy shot, call your health care provider and go to the nearest emergency room if you develop shortness of breath, tight throat, or any other symptoms of concern.

New Approaches to Immunotherapy. In addition to the traditional allergy shots, several new immunotherapy procedures have been proposed, including:

• Rush immunotherapy: This approach involves a more rapid, or rushed, build-up to the maintenance dose of extract. During the initial phase of treatment, increasing doses of allergen are given every few hours rather than every few days or weeks. There is a greater risk of a body-wide reaction with this approach, so rush immunotherapy generally is done in a hospital under close medical supervision. In some cases, pre-treatment with medications can reduce the risk of an allergic reaction during rush immunotherapy.
• Oral immunotherapy: Oral immunotherapy works in the same way as allergy shots, by giving increasing doses of allergen to gradually build up a person's tolerance. The difference with oral immunotherapy is the allergen extract is given as drops, usually placed under the tongue and then swallowed, rather than through injections. Convenience is another benefit of oral immunotherapy because people can take the drops themselves at home. In Europe, where it is more widely used, oral immunotherapy has been successful in treating many types of severe allergies, including those caused by dust mites, pollens, molds, and pets. However, relatively few allergists in the U.S. currently offer oral immunotherapy, as the extracts are not standardized. In addition, the FDA has not approved any oral extract.
• Enzyme potentiated desensitization (EPD): Enzyme potentiated desensitization, also called low-dose immunotherapy, uses very small doses of allergen along with an enzyme called b-glucuronidase. Proponents of this treatment claim that EPD can be used to treat a broad range of allergens without the need for weekly shots. This includes allergies to foods, which generally are not successfully treated with traditional allergy shots. This approach is still considered experimental.

---

HOME TREATMENT

The best and safest way to control allergies is the natural way - avoiding allergens and taking steps to normalized immune function and prevent or lessen the symptoms. Allergies can usually be controlled if you are willing to make changes in your lifestyle, diet, and mental state.

When allergy season arrives, spend as little time as possible outdoors. Keep windows closed during the day, and use your car air conditioner when you drive. Especially avoid going outside in the afternoon. If you exercise or play sports outside, do it in the morning rather than in the afternoon since grasses pollinate in midday and the wind keeps the pollen floating until it drops to the ground at night.

Shower and change your clothes when you come indoors after spending time outside. Pollen can stick to your hair, especially on a windy day. Washing your hair helps to keep the pollen from getting into your eyes.

Keep pets either inside or outside. Dogs and cats can pick up pollen on their fur and bring it indoors with them.

Try using an air purifier. 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 microorganisms (such as viruses, bacteria, and mold) and microparticles (including dust, pollen, and pollutants) in the air. It also eliminates vapors, smells, and harmful volatile compounds in the air. The Living Air XL-15 (enhanced XL-15) unit from Alpine Industries is an ionizing unit that is good for purifying the air in the home or workplace.

An old remedy for hay fever includes the theory that pollen collected by the honey bee will be digested and deposited into the honey it makes. Minute deposits of this pollen, taken in the form of this local honey, will slowly immunize against the allergy and irritation of these pollens. The honey must be local to the residence of the patient and collected with the honeycomb without refinement. Refining the honey destroys or removes the pollen deposits. Taken with cod liver oil (tablets are not the same, must have the oil), it will take several weeks to notice the changes, but the immunity will kick in and the next hay fever season will be lighter until the allergy is controllable or goes away completely. This applies to all allergies that are food, pollen, or skin allergies that produce eczema and rashes.

---

CONSIDERATIONS

Antihistamines are the most commonly recommended conventional treatment for hay fever. They can reduce itching in the eyes, ears, and throat; dry-up a runny nose; and reduce sneezing attacks. However, they can also cause drowsiness, depression, and other side effects. Newer antihistamines, such as terfenadine (Seldane), astemizole (Hismanal), and loratidine (Claritin) do not cause drowsiness and depression. But they are expensive and available only by prescription, and they might not work for everyone. Note: Seldane was removed from the market in February 1998 when the FDA announced a link between Seldane and serious heart problems.

Steroid drugs are even more powerful suppressors of allergic reactions than antihistamines. Health care providers often prescribe the steroid beclomethasone in nasal inhalers sold under the brandname of Beconase and Vancenase. These can be very effective in relieving symptoms, but some of the steroids are bound to get into the rest of the body. Steroids suppress immune function.

Some health care providers recommend desensitization shots for people with hay fever. These are expensive, painful, and not risk-free. A disappointingly low percentage of people experience satisfactory relief, even after years of injections. The typical person requires weekly shots for up to a year and monthly shots for up to five years, at a total cost that can run into the thousands of dollars.

---

HERBAL & HOLISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS

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.

HERBS

Alfalfa supplies chlorophyll and vitamin K. Use a liquid form. Take 1 tablespoon in juice or water twice daily.

Bio Rizin from American Biologics contains licorice extract, which improves energy levels and helps relieve allergy symptoms. Take 10 to 20 drops twice daily or as needed. Caution: Do not use licorice for more than 7 days at a time. Avoid it completely if you have high blood pressure.

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 ephidrene, 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.) Ephedra (ma huang) helps to relieve bronchial spasms, congestion, and coughing. 1 cup of ephedra tea, 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of tincture, or one capsule two to three times daily is a powerful stimulant that opens bronchial passages. Caution: Do not use ephedra if you suffer from anxiety, glaucoma, heart disease, high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism, or insomnia, or if you are taking a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor drug for depression. Ephedra should be used with extreme caution.

Siberian ginseng (eleuthero), 1/2 teaspoon tincture 2-3 times daily, can be used to support the adrenal glands.

If you throat is itchy or you want to cough, use alcohol-free goldenseal extract. Hold a dropperful in your mouth for a few minutes, then swallow. This will halt a sore throat. Caution: Do not take goldenseal internally on a daily basis for more than one week at a time, as it may disturb normal intestinal flora. Do not use it during pregnancy, and use it with caution if you are allergic to ragweed.

Horehound, mullein leaf, stinging nettle, and/or wild cherry bark help to ward off severe allergic reactions. Nettles, 1/2 teaspoon tincture or one to two capsules (preferably freeze-dried) every two to four hours; for its antihistamine and anti-inflammatory effects. Bitter tasting horehound has been a popular remedy for sore throats for hundreds of years. Old-fashioned throat lozenges contain horehound. A compound known as marrubin is found in the horehound plant is known to soothe the respiratory tract. Cough syrups made of horehound were used in ancient Egypt. European herbalists use a tea made of the flower and stem of this plant for hay fever and asthma. And horehound has lots of vitamin B-complex, A, C and E as well as iron and essential fatty acids making it a healthful herbal remedy. Today's herbal research suggests that this old-fashioned hay fever remedy can truly be helpful for those of us who experience seasonal summer allergies.

Following is an herbal tea recipe that you may find helpful. Nettles, horehound and eyebright are the main ingredients and a little stevia herb is added for natural sweetness. The lemon balm is soothing and calming. I like the uplifting, refreshing taste of citrus scented lemon balm and it helps to mask the bitter taste of the horehound. It makes a great iced herbal tea, a wonderful cooling beverage for a hot summer day. If you have a lot of fresh lemon balm in your herb garden you can use it without drying. Double the amount specified in the recipe and add it to your infusion after the dried herbs have had a chance to steep for at least 10 minutes.

Herbal Allergy Relief Tea Recipe makes approximately 8 oz. of tea mixture. 1/2 cup dried eyebright herb 1 cup dried nettle leaf 1/4 cup dried horehound flower and leaf 1 tablespoon of dried stevia herb (can be adjusted to desired sweetness) 1/2 cup dried lemon balm (or add about one full cup of fresh leaf as instructed above). Combine herbs in a glass jar. For each cup of tea use two teaspoons of the blend for a cup of boiling water. If preferred, make larger batches to refrigerate and serve as iced tea. A cup or two three times a day may help ease the sneezing, itching eyes and congestion of pollen allergies. Don't let pollen allergies keep you indoors with the air conditioning running.

Angelica. Because of its great flavor, it's been used for centuries in elixirs and syrups to aid digestion. It's great for hay fever users because of its essential oil which helps calm the immune system and relieve congestion.

Feverfew, which was recommended by herbalists for centuries for sinus-like headaches. Modern science has identified aspirin-like compounds which could reduce inflammation.

Steep 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seed in 1 cup of water, covered, for 10 minutes. Drink 1 cup a day to help hay fever symptoms.

Eyebright with elderflower infusion or tincture taken internally. Eyebright is one the hay fever remedies that I have found to be safe but effective. Eyebright herb capsules are convenient, healthful and inexpensive. This tiny plant contains helpful compounds such as vitamins A, B3, B12, C, D and E as well as sulfur and PABA. It helps to soothe itchy, watery eyes and runny nose and has been a popular hay fever remedy for centuries.

Ground ivy with cudweed, ribwort and goldenrod in tincture or with chamomile in an infusion. Use with caution if you have an allergy to ragweed.

Echinacea taken internally in tincture or infusion form helps to build a strong immune system. Caution: In the case of allergies, however, echinacea may worsen symptoms or even trigger them in people who haven't experienced them. People with autoimmune diseases or who have plant allergies should particularly avoid it.

Make a nose spray: Put 1 tablespoon ephedra in 1 pint boiling water. Steep 30 minutes. Use the nose spray in conjunction with the mouthwash and hay fever pills.

Nasal Wash For mild allergic rhinitis, a nasal wash can be helpful for removing mucus from the nose. A saline solution can be purchased at a drug store or a saline or herbal formula may be made at home. One study reported that neither a homemade solution (using one teaspoon of salt and one pinch of baking soda in a pint of warm water) nor a commercial hypertonic saline nasal wash had any effect on symptoms. Further, one preliminary study found that over-the-counter saline nasal sprays that contain benzalkonium chloride as a preservative may actually worsen symptoms and infection. Some health care providers, however, advocate a traditional nasal wash that has been used for centuries and is different from that used in the study. It contains no baking soda and uses more fluid for each dose and less salt. The nasal wash should be performed several times a day. Simple method for administering a nasal wash is the following: Lean over the sink head down. Pour some solution into the palm of the hand and inhale it through the nose, one nostril at a time. Spit the remaining solution out. Gently blow the nose. The solution may also be inserted into the nose using a large rubber ear syringe, available at a pharmacy. In this case the process is the following: Lean over the sink head down. Insert only the tip of the syringe into one nostril. Gently squeeze the bulb several times to wash the nasal passage. Then press the bulb firmly enough so that the solution passes into the mouth. Process should be repeated in the other nostril.

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.

Make "hay fever" pills: Mix 2 parts eyebright, 1 part goldenseal, 1 part mullein, and ˝ 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.

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.

Butterbur (also known as Petasites hybridus, butter dock, blatterdock, bog rhubarb, and exwort) is a plant found in Europe, North American, and parts of Asia. It is a traditional herbal remedy used for seasonal allergies and asthma. In a 2002 study, it was as effective and less sedating than a commonly prescribed antihistamine for treating seasonal allergies over a two week period. More research is needed.

Evening Primrose acts an anti-inflammatory and may help reduce severity of attack, for this purpose take the capsules three times daily during the season.

Yarrow may be helpful if used as a steaming agent, add one to two tablespoons dried yarrow flowers to a bowl and pour in boiling water. Drape towel over your head and inhale the steam for as long as possible or until water cools.

Homeopathic remedies for allergies and hay fever include:

• Allium cepa: Indications for this remedy include watery eyes and a clear nasal discharge that irritates the upper lip, along with sneezing and a tickling cough. The person usually is thirsty, and feels worse indoors and when rooms are warm, and better in fresh air.
• Apis: for acute respiratory allergic reactions.
• Arsenicum album: A burning, watery, runny nose with a stuffy, tickling feeling during allergy attacks suggests a need for this remedy. Swelling below the eyes and a wheezy cough are common. The person may feel chilly, restless, anxious, and is often very tired.
• Euphrasia: This remedy can be helpful if the eyes are swollen and irritated with acrid tears or pus. The nose also runs, but with a blander discharge. Symptoms are often worse in the daytime and worse from warmth, and the eyes may hurt from too much light. The person can also have a cough in the daytime, which improves at night.
• Ferrum phosphoricum: This is a very useful remedy in the early stages of any inflammation. Taken when allergy symptoms start, it often slows or stops an episode. Symptoms include runny eyes with a burning or gritty feeling, facial flushing, watery nose, and short, hard, tickling cough.
• Gelsemium: A tired, droopy feeling during allergies with a flushed and heavy-feeling face suggest a need for this remedy. A sensation of dryness or of swollen membranes may be felt inside the nose—or the nose may run with irritating watery discharge, with the person sneezing frequently. Aching in the back of the head and neck, a trembling feeling, and chills along the spine are often seen when a person needs Gelsemium.
• Natrum muriaticum: Allergy attacks with sneezing, watery eyes, clear nasal discharge that resembles egg white, and a loss of taste and smell will all suggest a need for this remedy. The person may have dark circles under the eyes, be thirsty, feel withdrawn and sad, and act irritable if comforted.
• Nux vomica: If the nose is alternately stuffed up (especially outdoors or at night) and running (indoors and in the daytime), this remedy may bring relief. Other symptoms include a teasing cough, a scraped or tickle-like feeling in the throat, and headache. A person who needs this remedy often feels impatient, irritable, and chilly.
• Sabadilla: Long paroxysms of sneezing, itching in the nose with irritating runny discharge, a feeling of a lump in the throat, and watery eyes will all suggest a need for this remedy. The person may feel nervous during allergy attacks, and trying to concentrate can bring on drowsiness or headache.
• Wyethia: Intolerable itching felt on the roof of the mouth and behind the nose—sometimes extending into the throat and ears—strongly suggests the use of this remedy. Everything in the person's head feels dry and irritated, but the nose may still be runny.

Homeopathy Dosage Directions: Select the remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions where self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a health care provider, a lower potency (6X, 6C, 12X, 12C, 30X, or 30C) should be used. In addition, instructions for use are usually printed on the label. Many homeopathic physicians suggest that remedies be used as follows: Take one dose and wait for a response. If improvement is seen, continue to wait and let the remedy work. If improvement lags significantly or has clearly stopped, another dose may be taken. The frequency of dosage varies with the condition and the individual. Sometimes a dose may be required several times an hour; other times a dose may be indicated several times a day; and in some situations, one dose per day (or less) can be sufficient. If no response is seen within a reasonable amount of time, select a different remedy.

Also available are combination remedy formulas that include the above single remedies as well as ones such as Euphrasia and - Histaminum (from histamine).

Essential oils can used to relieve allergy symptoms as a massage oil applied to the chest and sinuses, as a gargle, or as a steam inhalant. Be careful if you have allergies or sensitivities to certain essential oils and dilute them before using them. See Aromatherapy for more detailed information about the use of essential oils. Use any of the following essential oils singly or in combination:

• Eucalyptus: antispasmodic, decongestant, expectorant
• Frankincense: anti-inflammatory, expectorant, sedative
• Lavender: antispasmodic, sedative

---

NUTRITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS

A rotation diet, which requires increasing the variety of foods eaten and not eating a specific food more than once every four days, is a simple and effective method for identifying food allergens and preventing the development of new sensitivities. A rotation diet may also be helpful for people suffering from other types of allergies. Choose from a wide variety of additive-free whole foods, emphasizing fresh vegetables and fruits, seeds and nuts, low-fat vegetable and animal proteins (avoid dairy products), and whole grains. Also emphasize brown rice, Millet, and amaranth over gluten-containing grams (wheat, rye, barley, and oats) if gluten sensitivity is a problem. Many people with allergies are addicted to the same foods to which they are allergic, so it may be helpful to eliminate foods that are eaten most often. These foods can often be reintroduced as a part of the rotation diet after a few weeks if they do not cause the reemergence of allergic symptoms.

Eat more fruits (especially bananas), vegetables, grains, and raw nuts and seeds. Stay on a high-fiber diet. Researchers at Glessen University in Germany found that 3 bananas contain enough magnesium (180 mg) to quell a hay fever attack. Other food items rich in magnesium are kidney beans, whole-wheat flour, brown rice, soybeans (tofu), almonds, lima beans, molasses, and peas. Magnesium can also be taken in supplemental form.

During periods of attack, munch on parsley and celery sticks. Cook with garlic and onions. Sprinkle your salads with sage. Add molasses and honey as sweeteners to whatever you can. Take spirulina supplements.

Eat yogurt or any soured products three times a week. Homemade yogurt is best. However, beware of the possibility that you may be allergic to casein, the principal protein found in milk. A study at the University of California-Davis found that eating yogurt every day significantly reduced the incidence of hay fever attacks, especially those triggered by grass pollens.

Go on a cleansing fast. See Fasting for more information.

Consume no cakes, chocolate, coffee, dairy products (except yogurt), packaged or canned foods, pies, soft drinks, sugar, tobacco, white flour products, or any junk food.

See Ascorbic Acid Flush and Allergies for more information.

Be sure to cook with garlic and onions, eat celery, parsley, and sage whenever possible. Eat more brown rice. Learn to like alfalfa sprouts. See Allergies for more helpful information.

---

Nutrients
Supplement	Suggested Dosage	Comments
Very Important
Coenzyme Q10	30 mg twice daily.	Improves oxygenation and immunity.
Quercetin	400 mg twice daily, before meals.	A bioflavonoid that stabilizes the membranes of the cells that release histamine, which triggers allergic symptoms.
Or Quercetin With Bromelain	1,000 mg daily, before meals 500 mg daily.	A bioflavonoid that stabilizes the membranes of the cells that release histamine, which triggers allergic symptoms. Start taking 2 weeks prior to the beginning of pollen season.
Or Activated Quercetin from Source Naturals	As directed on label.	Contains quercetin plus bromelain and vitamin C for better absorption.
Or AntiAllergy Formula from Freeda Vitamins	As directed on label.	A combination of quercetin, calcium pantothenate, and calcium ascorbate.
Raw Thymus Glandular	500 mg twice daily.	Promotes immune function. Caution: Do not give this supplement to a child under 16 years of age.
Vitamin A	100,000 IU daily for 1 month, then reduce to 25,000 IU daily. If you are pregnant, do not exceed 10,000 IU daily.	A powerful immunostimulant. An emulsion form is recommended for easier assimilation and greater safety at high doses.
Vitamin B complex Plus extra Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) and Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)	100 mg daily. 100 mg 3 times daily. 50 mg twice daily.	All B vitamins are necessary for proper functioning of the immune system and to support the adrenal glands, which are often weakened by allergies.
Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids	3,000-10,000 mg 3 times daily.	A potent immunostimulant, antihistamine, and anti-inflammatory. Use an esterified or buffered form.
Essential fatty acids	250-1,000 mg daily.	To reduce the inflammatory response.
Important
Proteolytic enzymes	As directed on label. Take with meals and between meals.	Necessary for digestion of essential nutrients that boost immune function. Caution: Do not give this supplement to a child.
Zinc	50-80 mg daily. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements.	Boosts immune function. Use zinc gluconate lozenges or OptiZinc for best absorption.
Helpful
Alfalfa	1 tablespoon in liquid form twice daily.	Supplies chlorophyll and vitamin K.
Aller Bee-Gone from CC Pollen	As directed on label.	A combination of herbs, enzymes, and nutrients to fight acute symptoms.
Bio Rizin from American Biologics	10 to 20 drops twice daily or as needed.	Contains licorice extract, which improves energy levels and helps relieve allergy symptoms. Caution: Do not use licorice for more than 7 days at a time. Avoid it completely if you have high blood pressure.
Calcium And Magnesium	1,500 mg daily. 1,000 mg daily.	Minerals that have a calming effect on the system.
Dioxychlor from American Biologics	5 drops in water twice daily. Also use topically: mix 30 drops in 2 oz water and instill 1 dropperful in each nostril.	To supply stabilized oxygen and fight bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
Or Aerobic 07 from Aerobic Life Industries	As directed on label.	To supply stabilized oxygen and fight bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
Manganese	5-10 mg daily. Take separately from calcium.	Aids in metabolism of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and carbohydrates.
Pycnogenol	As directed on label.	A powerful free radical scavenger that also acts as an anti-inflammatory and enhances the activity of vitamin C.
Kelp	As directed on label twice daily.	A rich source of minerals.
Superoxide dismutase (SOD) (Cell Guard from Biotec Foods)	As directed on label.	A powerful antioxidant.
Vitamin E	400-800 IU daily.	Boosts the immune system.

NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...

You have symptoms of hay fever and need to confirm diagnosis and/or require prescription strength medication.

You have unusual symptoms, severe allergy symptoms, or symptoms of infection. Infections and severe allergy symptoms need to be treated by your health care provider.

---

Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements

-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch

Mountain Rose Herbs.com: Order Online

Accessories & Tools Aromatherapy Aroma Sprays and Flower Waters Babies/Children Body and Bath Bottles, Jars & Containers Bulk Herbs Bulk Ingredients Bulk Oils Butters Capsules Clays Dental Care Essential Oils Facial Care Green & Black Teas Hair Care Herbal Extracts Herbal Oils Herbal Salves & Balms Herbal Teas Herbs for Pets Incense, Resins and Candles Lotions Massage Oils Medicinal Herb Seeds Tea Brewing Supplies Women's Products

Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs

Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs A Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs B Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs C Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs D Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs E Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs F Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs G Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs H Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs I Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs J Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs K Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs L

Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs M Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs N Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs O Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs P Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs R Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs S Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs T Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs U Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs V Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs W Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs Y

Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils

Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils A-B Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils C-E Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils F-L Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils M-P Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils Q-Z Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Oil Blends & Resins Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Diffusers, Nebulizers, & Burners Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Oil Kits

A Source For Medicinal & Ritual Herbs & Supplies

Click Here To Visit Herbal Remedies Product Page

---

HELPFUL LINKS

NasalGuard Gel for Drug Free Allergy Relief

Hay Fever - Medicinal Herbs Online

Herbal Remedy Not To Be Sneezed At

Chinese Remedy Benefits Hay Fever Sufferers

PinderHerbFarm: Hay Fever Tincture Mixture

---

MoonDragon's Health Information: Allergies

MoonDragon's Health Index Page

MoonDragon's ObGyn Information & Discussion Index by Subject Order

MoonDragon's ObGyn Information & Discussion Index by Alphabetical Order

MoonDragon's Main Indexlisting

MoonDragon's Home Page