Commentary by Bridget Allison
Over the counter drugs such as diphenhydramine found in common allergy medications such as Benydryl have been found to contribute to cognitive decline when used consistently over a long period of time. Studies have shown that common medications such as these have been linked to a demise in mental capabilities and loss of memory.
This group of drugs is called anticholinergics. [an-ti-koh-luh-nur-jik] Anticholinergics hinder the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This is not the intended response when one takes these drugs, for example for allergies. This event happens as a side effect. This side effect is not beneficial to the brain because acetylcholine is a needed neurotransmitter for memory production and cognitive function, to name a few. There is also evidence that suggests a disruption in this acetylcholine-producing system in the brain may be linked to memory deficits associated with Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, back in February of 2013 a published research study cited that the primary cause of depression may be an “acetylcholine disruption in the cholinergic system of the brain.”
Diphenhydramine, which is an antihistamine, is ranked a 3 for severe effect on the Anticholinergic Burden scale. This scale was developed by scientists from the Regenstrief Institute to assess the strength of a person’s anticholinergic activity.
There are natural alternatives that may assist people who have allergies and make it possible for them to skip taking antihistamines altogether.
1) Drinking daily a cocktail consisting of one tablespoon of raw apple cider vinegar and one tablespoon raw honey. Dissolve ingredients in about 8 ounces of warm water. The raw apple cider vinegar has been shown to prevent allergic symptoms such as frequent sneezing, running nose and itchy eyes, to name a few.
Eating raw local honey has been shown to aid in building an immune defense against local pollens. In addition to this, raw honey, has an abundance of minerals, vitamins, enzymes, and powerful antioxidants. It has also been shown to have potent antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties.
2) Whenever we feel or notice a dis-ease or symptom in our bodies, it is our body’s way of communicating to us. Many suggest that there may be a mind-body link to your symptoms. It has been suggested that allergies suggest that you are denying your own power. Go within and ask yourself: “Who or what are you allergic to? Are you denying your own power?” Louis Hay is known as the guru for developing statements for positive thought patterns for reversing illness and creating health. The following affirmation has been suggested by Louis Hay for allergy sufferers:
The world is safe and friendly. I am safe. I am at peace with life.
In addition, for any symptoms you are experiencing try asking your body what it is trying tell you. Go within and be in stillness as you listen to your body’s response. You may be surprised at the response you get from your very own body!
3) Dr. Jewel Pookrum is the author of Vitamins and Minerals From A to Z with Ethno-Consciousness. According to Dr. Pookrum, “Vitamin B6 reduces the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and is helpful in treating allergies, arthritis and asthma. In addition, she mentions that quercetin, found in algae, is a supplement that effectively treats asthma (and allergies). Bromelin and querticin are synergistic and should be taken together to enhance absorption. Take 1000 mg of querticin daily and 3-6 doses for asthma or allergies.”
Check out these links for further related reading:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acetylcholine
http://withfoodandlove.com/turmeric-honey-super-booster/
Works Cited
Hay, L (2009) You Can Heal Your Life. Carlsbad, California: Hay House, Inc
Pookrum, J.(2012 ) Vitamins and Minerals From A to Z with Ethno-Consciousness. Atlanta, Georgia: J. E. W. E. L. Publications, Incorporated
Rabin, R.(2012, February 27). Cocktail of Popular Drugs May Cloud Brain. Retrieved from http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/02/27/cocktail-of-popular-drugs-may-cloud-brain/?_r=1
{{disclaimer}} These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
I have taken Benadryl in the past without a thought, my daughter still takes it quite often. It really makes you sleep good but with a groggy effect afterwards. I didn’t like that. But from what I know now, bye, bye antihistamines. Thank you for the natural remedy now when allergies come we can safely cure them in a all natural way without loosing our minds. Thanks again.