Adaptogens and Allergies

One very important characteristic of adaptogens is that they help regulate the immune and nervous systems.  They are unique in the way they are able to protect the mitochondria from stress-induced damage.  This is very important when considering treatment options for allergy symptoms.

Many people think that they suffer from allergic reactions to foods, drugs or environmental substances.  In reality, only 6% of young children and 3.7% of U.S. adults have true food allergies.  That's because true allergies result from an abnormal immune response.  That immune response is qualified by the presence of abnormal amounts of IgE.  This is an immunoglobulin that is normally occurring in mammals.  But, when elevated bloods levels occur in response to an oral food challenge, we see that food-specific IgE binds to mast cells, causing the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction or antigen-antibody response.  IgE is a major player in Type 1 hypersensitivity which manifests in allergic diseases, such as allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis and food allergies and allergic conditions such as anaphylactic reactions to drugs and bee stings.

Most of the symptomatic population has non-immune food sensitivities or intolerances, not allergies.  Many people are sensitive/intolerant to lactose, caffeine, gluten, sulfa drugs and other substances.  This is an important distinction because that can change how successful we can be if the symptomatic patient is willing to make a lifestyle change.  Non-immune food intolerances result from enzyme deficiencies in the small intestine.  As such,  specific adaptogens, dietary changes and certain supplements can make a world of difference in the sufferer's quality of life.  We have seen patients who have been willing to take the time and make the commitment to changes in their diet and life style.  The result has been that they have been able to experience a more enjoyable life.

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