Safe Allergy Relief During Pregnancy

Q:  Dear Susun,

I am reading your "Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year" and have been taking the Red Clover and Red Raspberry infusions in preparation of conceiving, hopefully some time soon. I suffer from allergies (hay fever, dust mites, cockroaches) and am trying to ween myself off my current antihistamines (Zyrtec D). I've looked through your book and online and it looks like I could use Nettle safely before and throughout pregnancy, but I was unsure if this was the root or the leaf? Also, if you had any other suggestions for safe allergy relief (mainly to relieve sinus pressure and sneezing) during pregnancy, I would really appreciate it. I am having trouble finding information on this subject and most of the websites I've found suggest antihistamines, something you've mentioned as dangerous.

Thank you for all of your help.



A:  Yes you are right, Nettle leaf infusions are superb for this. Plus in your case they have added benefits of excellent mineral nutrition and vitamin K which is essential for the birth. It is the dried leaves we use, prepared as in the book you have.

Blessings,

Karen Joy

wisewoman@herbshealing.com

www.wisewomanweb.com

Comments

[allergy doctor]

I agree with that,Mother has a big part to make the baby safe from allergy.

-Kaylee

[severe allergies]

These cells (known as mast cells) contain strong chemicals called mediators, the best-known of which is histamine.

Later, when the child inhales the same kind of pollen again, proteins from the pollen bind in a lock-and-key fashion to the specially designed antibodies on the surface of the mast cells. This sets off an explosion of sorts, as the mediators burst from inside the mast cells, destroying the pollen and also damaging surrounding tissues. The results are sneezing, a stuffy head, sniffling, stuffed-up head and red, watery eyes - well-known hallmarks of allergies.

[plaizeereldic]

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[asthma inhaler use]

Lung function decreases before symptoms of an asthma attack - usually about two to three days prior. If the meter indicates the peak flow is down by 20 percent or more from your usual best effort, an asthma attack is on its way.

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Hi great article I just want to sayd about A balanced, nutritious diet is an important aspect of a healthy pregnancy. Eating a healthy diet, balancing carbohydrates, fat, and proteins, and eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, usually ensures good nutrition. Those whose diets are affected by health issues, religious requirements, or ethical beliefs may choose to consult a health professional for specific advice.

[Valerie]

I am 14 weeks pregnant and have severe seasonal allergies. Severe sore throat, nose bleed, sneezing, itchy eyes and swollen eyes. Any suggestions. I tried the netti pot and it's not working.

[Marie-Emma Graves]

One of the best things that I have found to ease my allergies has been to regularly consume local honey. I have made an electuary with ground rosehips and honey (yummy) that I take with a spoon, but I also just add it to things.

Now, at 5 months pregnant, I am finding that this fall my allergies are worse than they've been in years even though I have been drinking my oatstraw and nettles every day! So I am gargling with violet infusion and adding a little slippery elm bark to everything. (I just do a pinch in water over night and then mix a splash with what I am drinking) I'm not back to normal yet, but the symptoms are a little better...

I hope this can help others, but meanwhile, any other suggestions out there for me?