Allergy

An aquired abonormal, immune response to an allergen which normally doesn't cause a reaction.

Examples include eczema, allergic rhinitis or coryza, hay fever, bronchial asthma, urticaria (hives) , and a variety of food allergies.

Type I (immediate); Type II (cytotoxic); Type III (immune complex); Type IV (cell mediated)

In most cases eosinophil levels are elevated. There is quite apt to be respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, sneezing and nasal congestion. Since inflammatory responses (observed as redness, edema and heat) are generally noted, it is easily observed and diagnosed, but not so easily treated.

Sensitized T cells may build up over the years to cause reactions that occur from not a first, but a second exposure to a substance.

Feverfew lowers the inflammatory response.
Garlic enhances the immune system.
Ginkgo Biloba stimulates the release of endothelium-derived relaxing factor and prostacyclin.   It also inhibits enzymes such that smooth muscle of vessel walls relax allowing the greater flow (especially to the brain).   This has a profound effect upon platelet aggregation, adhesion and degranulation. Resultant easement of blood flow may allow greater proficiency to released eosinophils and thus, a lessened reaction overall.

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