Sunday, September 16, 2007

ROLE OF NONI IN ALLERGIC RHINITIS

Allergy Remedy

By WorldNoni.Org

It is also called Hay fever; Nasal allergies. Allergic rhinitis is a collection of symptoms, predominantly in the nose and eyes, caused by airborne particles of dust, dander, or plant pollens in people who are allergic to these substances.

When these symptoms are caused by pollen, the allergic rhinitis is commonly called hay fever.

Allergies are caused by an over-sensitive immune response. The immune system normally protects the body against harmful substances such as bacteria and viruses. Allergy symptoms occurs when the immune system reacts to substances (allergens) that are generally harmless and in most people do not cause an immune response.

When a person with allergies breathes in an allergen such as pollen or dust, antibodies are produced. When the antibodies are stimulated by pollen and dust, histamine and other chemicals are released. This causes itching, swelling, and mucus production. Symptoms vary from person to person. Very sensitive individuals can experience hives or other rashes.

Hay fever involves an allergic reaction to pollen. A similar reaction occurs with allergy to mold, animal dander, dust, and similar inhaled allergens.

The pollens that cause hay fever vary from person to person and from region to region. Large, visible pollens are seldom responsible for hay fever. Tiny, hard to see pollens more often cause hay fever. Examples of plants commonly responsible for hay fever include:

  • Trees (deciduous and evergreen)
  • Grasses
  • Ragweed

The amount of pollen in the air can play a role in whether hay fever symptoms develop. Hot, dry, windy days are more likely to have increased amounts of pollen in the air than cool, damp, rainy days when most pollen is washed to the ground.

Some disorders may be associated with allergies. These include eczema and asthma.

Allergies are common. Your genes and environmental may make you more prone to allergies.

Symptoms

  • Coughing
  • Headache
  • Itching nose, mouth, eyes, throat, skin, or any area
  • Runny nose
  • Problems with smell
  • Sneezing
  • Stuffy nose (nasal congestion)
  • Tearing eyes
  • Sore throat
  • Wheezing

Role of Noni –

Noni contains many active ingredients that have been shown to suppress allergic reactions. It relieves allergy symptoms by preventing the activation of immune responder cells

Noni contains several active constituents, such as flavonoids, polyphenols, catechins, and caffeine. Catechins such as epigallocatechin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and epicatechin gallate are potent antioxidants. By studying mast cells that release histamine, researchers found that EGCG blocks the IgE receptor, which is involved in the allergic response.

Noni contains carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, potassium, and flavonoids and rutin. It has anti-inflammatory effects


Noni has a powerful effect on raising glutathione levels in the body. Glutathione is a naturally occurring antioxidant that protects cells from the damage inflicted by free radicals. It prevents oxidative cell damage and is involved with immune system function. Glutathione depletion is linked to many chronic diseases.

Noni has been found to enhance T cell function. Noni increases the levels of IL-4. IL-4 enhances the ability of T cells to regulate pro-inflammatory cells, which further suggests that Noni can help reduce inflammation.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is found abundant in Noni. It appears that vitamin C increases the function of many immune cells, including T cells, phagocytes (which destroy invader cells), and others. As an antioxidant, ascorbic acid can protect cells from reactive oxygen species known to cause tissue damage and disease. Vitamin C has antihistamine properties (Johnston CS et al 1996) that can help relieve allergy symptoms.

Vitamin E. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as a free-radical scavenger. It protects cell membranes and prevents damage to membrane-associated enzymes. Studies indicate lower levels of antioxidants such as vitamin E increase the risk of allergies threefold .

Magnesium. Magnesium is utilized by every cell in the body and participates in energy metabolism and protein synthesis. The body vigilantly protects blood magnesium levels, in part because at least 350 enzymatic processes depend on magnesium status for activation. As magnesium levels decline, the incidence of allergies and asthma increases, and magnesium has been used in the acute treatment of asthma attacks. Magnesium directly depresses smooth muscle activity, which may help relieve the broncho constriction seen in asthma. Noni contains this trace mineral in abundant quantity with a chealated form.

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