Allergic rhinitis is a common upper respiratory problem seen routinely in clinical practice. This problem occurs when inhaled allergens come in contact with IgE antibodies on the surface of the airway triggering numerous acute symptoms: nasal congestion, sneezing, a watery ocular discharge, rhinnorea, and a pruritic palate along with sinus and eustachian tube congestion.1 According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in the United States, 17.9 million adults and 7.1 million children were diagnosed with hay fever in the year 2010.2 While numerous prescription and over the counter (OTC) antihistamines can benefit by relieving symptoms, they are often fraught with side effects including dry mouth, sleepiness and restlessness. As such, natural health products such as Allerevia, represent an alternative to OTC antihistamines that are safe for both short and long term use. A recent controlled study concluded that 2000 mg per day of the blue green algae spirulina significantly reduced the symptoms of allergic rhinitis including nasal discharge, sneezing, nasal congestion and itching after three weeks of use.3 In humans, spirulina acts on hay fever symptoms by significantly reducing the secretion of an inflammatory cytokine IL-4 by 32%.
BenefitsVitamin C has been shown to decrease blood histamine levels
Vitamin C also raises glutathione levels by 50%.5, 6 Increasing this potent antioxidant may help reduce nasal obstruction, rhinorrhea and ear fullness.7
A novel form of quercetin called EMIQ (enzymatically modified isoquercitrin) has been shown to reduce ocular allergic symptoms in those with pollinosis8
EMIQ is prepared by using a natural enzyme process that attaches polysaccharides to convert quercetin into a soluble form. According to pharmacokinetic data, the absorption of EMIQ is up to 40 times greater (Cmax) and 15 times greater (AUC) than quercetin.
The patented bioflavonoid pycnogenol, when given 5 weeks before birch allergy season, reduced eye and nasal symptoms by 35% and 19.5% respectively9
Stinging nettle leaf has been shown in vitro to inhibit the pro-inflammatory pathways related to allergic rhinitis.10 Urtica is a potent 4:1 extract.
