By Schuyler Corrigan

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August 8, 2023

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In late summer and early fall, we begin to notice a beautiful, golden-yellow flowering plant known as Ragweed. Ragweed blooms and releases pollen from late August through early November depending on the region, and can cause symptoms of sneezing, congestion, headaches, body aches, itchy and watery eyes, skin rash, runny or stuffy nose – the classic allergy symptoms we thought we had escaped with the passing of spring. These symptoms are often diagnosed as rhinitis (“hay fever”). Not everyone is affected by ragweed, however those with mild to severe seasonal allergies or asthma tend to present with acute or more dramatic allergy symptoms when ragweed is in bloom. 

 

Allergies are the response of a reactive and unbalanced immune system which, sensing an “invader,” goes into overdrive trying to destroy it. The reason we end up with allergy symptoms, like running nose and itchy watery eyes is usually due to high levels of histamine in the body. Histamine is released from immune cells that try to protect the body from foreign invaders.

 

To improve our response to allergies, we must first “stabilize” these immune cells so they are not so quick to release histamine. In addition, we can work to balance the immune system as a whole, so the body is less reactive and more able to tolerate exposure to allergens without having a negative response. 

 

Conventionally, allergy reactions to ragweed are treated with antihistamines, anti-inflammatory nasal sprays, or allergy shots for severe cases. From a naturopathic perspective, support with immediate symptoms is sometimes necessary, while also planning ahead and practicing prevention are top of mind. Preparing our immune system for seasonal allergies – including ragweed – can make a big difference in the allergic reaction and often will lessen the symptoms.  

The Naturopathic Approach to Supporting Ragweed

Practice Prevention with herbal support: Consuming herbal antihistamines and anti-inflammatories throughout each season may be helpful in lessening the acute symptoms of ragweed. Herbs are a wonderful addition to any allergy regime, as they often have a multitude of positive effects, such as toning and balancing the immune system, reducing inflammation, and improving resistance to allergens. Some common herbs used for allergies include nettles, eyebright, khella, thyme, butterbur, feverfew, ginkgo, curcumin, and yarrow.

 

Diet: You may need to avoid certain foods that are botanically related to ragweed, including artichoke, cucumber, chamomile, bananas, echinacea, zucchini, and mango. These foods may potentiate the allergy symptoms if they are already present. It is possible that other high histamine foods may need to be avoided for a time period to reduce the inflammation as a whole.

 

Adding in flavonoid-rich foods – Bioflavonoids, such as quercetin, are the compounds that give fruits and vegetables their rich colors. They act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in the body, helping to both mitigate damage from chronic inflammation and also preventing further inflammation. Quercetin also works as a stabilizer of cells that release histamine (i.e. it can reduce histamine released in the body), so it is particularly helpful with seasonal allergies. Quercetin-rich foods include onions, apples, citrus fruit, green tea, parsley, sage, grapes, dark berries (blueberry, blackberry) and dark cherries. t Supplements of  quercetin are also available– where usually, 1500mg/day for adults is adequate.

 

Additionally, consuming bromelain-rich foods such as pineapple may be helpful for allergy relief as well. Nutritional and food assessments can include specific food intolerances and/or allergies may need to be discussed. 

Homeopathic Ambrosia – This may be recommended by your naturopathic doctor to support the acute symptoms of ragweed allergy including runny nose, itchy throat, watery eyes, and sneezing. 

 

Lifestyle Adjustments: Depending on the severity of your reaction, wearing a mask outdoors, installing an indoor air purifier, keeping windows closed if you live in a high pollen area, and changing your clothes from outdoor to indoor clothing may be suggested. Even hydrotherapy to assist with clearing histamines from the tissues of the body may be useful.

 

Your naturopathic doctor will also take into consideration your overall health, immune function, stress response, sleep quality, and any other underlying conditions that may potentiate the allergy response during ragweed season. This multi-faceted approach not only takes into account the immediate, seasonal symptoms of ragweed but aims to prevent future flare-ups and optimize your body’s immune response towards future aggregates. 

 

If you anticipate any problems with upcoming seasonal allergies such as ragweed this year, call our office to schedule an appointment with one of our naturopathic doctors. (804) 977-2634.