Probiotics and Hay Fever
If you are one of the more than 35.9 million hay fever (allergic rhinitis) sufferers in
the
pressure do not end with winter (1). These symptoms may be just beginning in the
spring and summer months. Fortunately, a variety of natural products help deal with
allergic reactions to a variety of airborne substances. In addition to the great seasonal
allergy remedies available, a new pilot study might have you reaching for one of your
favorite winter products; probiotics.
During a hay fever attack, the immune system reacts upon exposure to certain
airborne substances that it thinks are harmful. Pollens, fungal spores, dust mites and
dander are all common culprits. In the body’s initial exposure to these substances, the
immune system produces specific antibodies to fight them. In subsequent exposures,
these antibodies will recognize the substances and signal immune cells to release
histamine and other chemicals that help deal with the symptoms associated with hay
fever.
For the first time ever, scientists from the
that a specific strain of probiotic may help reduce hay fever symptoms in humans (2). In
a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 10 hay fever sufferers were given a milk drink
with added Lactobacillus casei (L. casei); while 10 others were given a milk drink without
the added probiotic as a placebo for a five-month period. The researchers collected
blood samples before, at the peak, and at the end of grass pollen season to determine
levels of the plasma antibodies and cytokines specific to grass pollens. Levels of both
were significantly decreased for the group that took the probiotic milk drink compared to
those who did not.
These results suggest that supplementation of L. casei and possibly
other probiotic strains may reduce the symptoms of hay fever.
Because the effects of probiotics on hay fever constitutes a new area of research,
it may work best to consume a broad range of probiotics for the time-being. These
microorganisms perform essential functions in the body like crowding out unfriendly
microorganisms, altering pH in the colon, neutralizing free radicals, and helping with a
variety of gastrointestinal issues.
It is important to select probiotics that are
manufactured in capsules with a special coating that ensures the bacteria will survive the
rigors of digestion and be able to colonize. Either Bifidophilus (stock #4080-4 ) or Probiotic 11 (stock # 1510-1) would be a good choice.
In addition to probiotics, supplements commonly recommended for hay fever and
seasonal allergies include combinations of stinging nettle, quercetin, bromelain and
immature orange peel. (Hista-Block stock #776-1) These ingredients act by providing antioxidant strength to
maintain stable mast cells and support the body’s efforts to maintain normal mucous
membranes and keep nasal passages clear.
Another valuable combination to provide
immune system support during seasonal changes includes andographis with other
immune-supporting herbs such as bitter orange fruit, thyme, oregano and eleuthero root. (Seasonal Defense stock # 806-6)
Works Cited
1. Natahn, R.A., Meltzer, E.O., Selner, J.C., Storms, W. "Prevalence of Allergic Rhinitis
in the
2. Ivory K, Chambers SJ, Pin C, Prieto E, Arqués JL, Nicoletti C. “Oral delivery of
Lactobacillus casei Shirota modifies allergen-induced immune responses in allergic
rhinitis.” Clin Exp Allergy. 2008 May 28. [Epub ahead of print]
Submitted by:
-Jeanette Barcus
Natural Health Consultant, Iridologist
Herbs ‘n’ Whey -Natural Help for Natural Health
“Because the Body is Designed to Heal Naturally”
www.herbsnwheynews.blogspot.com
