An allergy is a hypersensitivity to one or more things in the environment. The allergy can manifest as a skin condition like eczema, respiratory conditions like hay fever or asthma, or food allergies. One in six children in the United States is allergic to one or more substances.

Common symptoms of allergies in children include:

• cold and postnasal drip, inflammation of the nasal passages
• dark circles under the eyes (what is often called allergic shine),
• puffiness under the eyes,
• concern,
• tired,
• sleep bad,
• headache,
• behavior problems, such as:

• – irritability,
• – hyperactivity,
• – lack of concentration, and

• picky eater.

recommendations

Try to eliminate the source of the allergic reaction, at least as much as possible. Often there is a dietary allergy. The most common food allergies are dairy and wheat, which are often the cause of nasal congestion. Eat a healthy diet that emphasizes lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. It is necessary to remove any chemical additives found to be the cause of allergies.

Vitamin and mineral supplement

These aim to balance immunity, reduce inflammation and improve gut health and promote relaxation.

• Beta-carotene, up to 10,000 units daily and foods rich in vitamin A – dark colored fruits and vegetables.
• Essential fatty acids in the form of evening primrose oil, 500 mg one to four times daily.
• Zinc, 5 mg daily.
• Vitamin C with bioflavonoids, 250 – 500 mg taken two to four times daily.
• Vitamin E, 50 to 200 mg daily.
• Daily supplement of vitamin B complex.
• Calcium citrate or lactate 600 to 800 mg daily in combination with 300 to 400 mg of magnesium.

herbal treatments

Treatments can be kept up regularly or used as needed during bad allergy seasons or flare-ups.

The following herbs are most useful:

• Nettle – an immune system herb that stimulates lymphatic function. It is also used to stabilize histamine produced by the body in excess in allergic reactions.
• Elderflowers: they are used to dry excessive catarrh in the upper respiratory tract and it also has an antimicrobial action and is a relaxant.
• Ginkgo – reduces platelet activating factor, which plays a key role in allergic and inflammatory processes. It also improves cerebral circulation, cerebral oxygenation, enhances memory and reduces depression. This makes this herb a good choice for allergy-related behavior problems.
• Banana – used to reduce congestion in the upper respiratory tract and can be easily combined with other herbs.
• Anise Seed: Has a warming effect on the digestive and upper respiratory tracts, which is helpful in reducing secretions. It is also slightly antiseptic and relaxing for the respiratory system.
• Ginger – is an excellent anti-inflammatory and anti-catarrhal herb.
• Astragalus – An immune system enhancing herb that is particularly helpful for upper respiratory tract and skin conditions as well.

Allergy remedy tincture

The following herbs balance immune function, strengthen the upper respiratory system, reduce inflammation, and decrease secretions (improve runny nose, watery eyes, and ear congestion).

1 1/3 ounces tincture of elderberry

2/3 ounces tincture of ginkgo

2/3 ounces astragalus

2/3 ounce licorice tincture

1/2 ounce tincture of anise seed

Combine all ingredients and store in an amber glass bottle away from sunlight and heat.

Take 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon up to four times a day.

hay fever remedy

To treat and alleviate the symptoms of hay fever, the following herbal combination may be more effective.

2 parts elderflowers

1 part ephedra (ma hung)

1 part eyebright

1 part golden seal

1 cup of water

Combine the herbs. You need as much herb combined as you would need for a cup of coffee. Then add the cup of boiling water. Let sit for 10-15 minutes and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Strain the mixture before drinking it. Drink 1 cup of this mixture 2 – 3 times a day.

Conclusive Comments

Remember that allergies are cumulative in their effects. During seasons when people are exposed to higher than normal allergens, symptoms can worsen much more quickly if there is chronic exposure to other allergens. The most common culprits are food allergies and sometimes they are “silent” and undiagnosed. Improving the diet to eliminate them can sometimes reduce the level of symptoms experienced even seasonally to a tolerable level so no treatment is needed. While the above details are intended to be generally helpful and educational, they should not be construed as a replacement for individual advice from a healthcare professional. You should seek professional help if your child’s allergy is sudden, extreme, long-lasting, or does not improve.

Liquid vitamin and mineral supplements may be helpful.

References

Hoffmann, D. 2000, The New Holistic Herbal. Publication Element.

Romm, A. 2000, Naturally Healthy Babies and Children. Floor books.

Shaw, N. 2002, Herbalism. Element.

Woodward, P. 2003, Grow Your Own Herbal Remedies. Hyland House.