Until about 100 years ago an allergy was something out of the ordinary as formerly infections were the most frequent causes of disease. In our time, allergies are increasing uncontrollably and it is officially accepted that the contamination of our modern environment has created a climate propitious for the development of such illnesses.

When speaking of an allergy, we mean a changed or unusual defensive reaction against some known, or unknown, substance. An allergic disposition can be hereditary or acquired and we can get an allergy at any time in life, even as a bottle-fed baby. An allergic reaction to a substance or food can happen within seconds or over a period of up to 72 hours. Innumerable health problems or even serious illness can be caused by allergens. Most affected are the skin and the mucous membranes.

Allergy problems can appear in many different forms such as unidentified skin diseases, which could be an allergy to wheat. Wheat is very highly processed and can indeed cause several allergies that need to be treated as soon as possible. Wheat allergies can be tremendously helped by cutting out wheat products and eating rye, barley, millet, rice or corn instead.

Hayfever is another well-known allergy. Hayfever due to an allergy to pollen can be very nasty and may cause symptoms such as sneezing and swollen, puffy eyes. A common cold or sneezing can often be caused by milk, cheese and other dairy produce, and most dairy foods should be cut out of the diet except yoghurt and cottage cheese. It may be of help to introduce a little locally produced honey into your diet.

There are other allergy problems that can affect one's health in general. Especially when an allergy affects the immune system, the immunity is reduced and allergies will increase. Personally I have found that by helping the immunity, the allergy problem often gets better and it is very wise, with such problems, to look at remedies to de-sensitise. Harpagophytum (Devil's Claw) is one such de-sensitiser as it helps to stabilise the immune system, which gives it its role in the treatment of allergies.

An allergy problem might manifest itself, not only in skin diseases but also through hair loss or constant sneezing. The alarm bells could be tiredness, headaches, swollen glands, sore muscles, itching eyes and ears and cold sweats. However an allergy problem can be treated, and if it is getting worse it might be best to consult a doctor, allergist or nutritionist.

For further information and advice please consult my book, Viruses, Allergies & the Immune System.