These days more and more people are developing allergies. Approximately 38 % of Western populations suffer allergies in one form or another. The reasons are complex but in general it is due to the immune system over-reacting to a perceived threat (antigen). In most cases this threat to the body is a common substance, which the majority of our immune systems consider harmless.

Most allergies occur when an antigen binds to special immune proteins called immunoglobulins. In particular, IgE that in turn binds to mast cells within the body. Mast cells then release histamine and serotonin in an attempt to defend the body against the invading foreign substance. Allergies also result from eosinophils (specialised cells of the immune system) when they release hydrogen peroxidase at the site of the allergy in an attempt to destroy what they ‘believe’ to be the ‘enemy’.

So how can a person normalise or desensitise their immune systems to such things as dust and dust mite, pollen and mould, foods and food additives, pet hair and insect residue, pollution and chemicals, micro-organisms and even changes in the weather? Modern treatments include antigen desensitisation especially for airborne allergies, strict avoidance in the case of food or chemical sensitivity, rigorous environmental controls for pet and insect reactivity, as well as various drugs to help manage and prevent allergic symptoms.

Such drugs include anti-histamines, bronchodilators like Ventolin, beta-adrenergic stimulants like ephedrine and adrenaline to relax smooth muscle of the airways and of course the powerful corticosteroids to inhibit life-threatening reactions.

Undoubtedly most people will acknowledge the importance of modern day medicines that help save lives. Likewise, most people would prefer something natural if the evidence proves it really works and if it could help reduce their need for conventional drugs.

Well in 15 years of practice the most impressive medicine for the broadest range of allergies is an ancient Chinese medicine containing 7 powerful herbs. This 500 year old formula has not only withstood the test of time but also the scrutiny of modern science.

It is traditionally called Xiao Chai Hu Tang and is proven to reduce the severity and frequency of allergies including asthma, hayfever and allergic sinusitis, hives and allergic eczema, as well as certain food intolerances and autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, while increasing the body’s resistance to infection and helping the liver detoxify allergens.

This ancient formula contains the herbs Pinellia and Jujube fruit together with five other powerful anti-allergic herbs Bupleurum, Scute, Ginger, Ginseng and Liquorice. In fact, this Chinese ‘allergy’ medicine is not only safe to take with prescription medication but helps reduce dependence upon them. In addition, it is now manufactured in Australian at guaranteed purity and potency.

Recently I received a letter testifying to the benefits gained from taking this Chinese herbal formula. "Experiencing severe hayfever and sinusitis I consulted my naturopath who put me onto a Chinese herbal allergy formula three to five times daily. My response was immediate…my head cleared…within days my energy returned…and by the end of two weeks of therapy my resistance to infection was perfect. I am very happy with the results I gained from taking this wonderful Chinese medicine…"

Another person wrote "I have suffered from hayfever on and off for the last 10 years or so. It's not a chronic health problem but some days it can cause me major discomfort. A bad day can cause my eyes to swell and I experience constant sneezing. I have tried most conventional drugs and antihistamines but I find that the side effects are often worse than the symptoms. Then I tried a course of a Chinese allergy formula containing Bupleurum and Pinellia. The relief was almost instant without any side effects. I now take it regularly as a preventative measure and my hayfever has not returned."