Buzz away Allergies?

In his latest article, Dr. Mercola discussed the use of local honey as a treatment for seasonal allergies. According to Dr. Mercola:

Asthma is a growing problem, both for children and adults. In the last two decades, the incidence of asthma has increased by more than 300 percent, and it now affects about 20 million Americans.

Locally produced honey is believed by many to be a viable alternative treatment, despite the lack of scientific evidence of its effectiveness. However, before throwing the idea out as being bogus due to this lack, it's worth noting that precious few studies have ever been done on local honey as an asthma remedy. And lack of evidence is not to be equated with evidence of lack of efficacy.

I had to conduct extensive searches just to find the references I will provide later in this article. There is however, a rather large body of anecdotal evidence--people who have tried it with great success. And anecdotal evidence can be just as important when considering a treatment. For example, many drugs are prescribed off label, not because there have been extensive studies done showing beneficial results, but because "word spreads" that a certain drug "appears to provide benefit" for health problems unrelated to its approved use.

It's true that few studies exist on the use of honey for allergies; however, Dr. Mercola has a point. In Integrative and Naturopathic Medicine experience and clinical results are also important considerations. Waiting for evidence-based medicine in real life issues can sometimes not be the optimal solution for assisting others with health goals.

Still, even though it's a natural source, are we still chasing the panacea? Various studies have linked skin, digestive, immune, hormonal imbalances, and respiratory issues with fungal overgrowth. In fact, according to a recent slideshow in medscape:

Fungi, or molds, are a major source of indoor allergens, particularly the Altemaria and Aspergillus species. Fungi reproduce asexually via budding and sexually through spores (hyphae and spores shown). It is the spores that serve as the major allergen. In children with allergies, two thirds have increased fungal levels in their homes. Allergic rhinitis is the most common symptom. Efforts to reduce indoor fungal levels involve decreasing indoor humidity to less than 50%, cleaning surfaces with a weak bleach solution, air purification with HEPA filters, and removing an offending source. Injection immunotherapy is an accepted treatment option for anaphylactic allergy to environmental allergens.

So, what's the solution? The detective doc in me has to find the cause of those annoying sniffles. It's not just a matter of a supplement soup. I've found that most allergies are truly a result of a "gut gone wrong." This can be due to food sensitivities, environmental exposure, oxidative stress, or nutritional deficiencies, among other causes.

The gastrointestinal system is home to 80% of your immune system and is vital for neurotransmitter formation. When the critters that live in there get imbalanced, not only can fungus and candida spread, but the absorption of food and nutrients goes array, inflammation excels, and symptoms from allergies to arthritis can ensue.

Most allergy medications modulate the histamine and inflammation response, so why not calm down naturally? I find that a healthy diet, taking care of indoor mold issues, and providing immune support helps a great deal. In my clinic I use supplements such as probiotics, and taking natural anti-inflammatories such as bromelin, nettle, and quercetin to tone down inflammation. Essential oils such as RC and Raven can also be very helpful to buzz away allergies.

What are your thoughts? I'd like to hear from you....

Do you use honey to wipe out allergies?

Comment below...