Allergies: regulating immunity without focusing on allergens

In the allergic, and because of genetic predispositions , the immune system is disrupted thus creating disorientation. To the point of mobilizing his troops against harmless substances such as dust mites, pollens or molds. Food allergies, asthma, conjunctivitis, eczema, rhinitis… If it manifests itself in different forms, the allergy is always the result of an error of assessment . From whom? Of the immune system. It constitutes the seat of complex interactions, but on which it is possible to act. Through, in particular, micronutrients and plants. And this, without even worrying about the allergen(s) in question. Explanations.

Our immune system acts as a control tower. Bacteria, viruses and other parasites… as soon as an intruder enters its perimeter, whether through the digestive, respiratory or cutaneous route, it sounds the alarm and mobilizes its fighters. The target is attacked by cells called phagocytes. Cascading reactions ensue .: the white blood cells will multiply, like the Th2 lymphocytes and the B lymphocytes. The latter will release antibodies (immunoglobulins E or IgE) which will attach themselves to the intruders and eliminate them. To the point of mobilizing his troops against harmless substances such as dust mites, pollens or molds. During the first meeting, there is no visible reaction from the outside. Specialists speak of the “awareness phase”. However, the process takes a very unpleasant turn during the second encounter between the immune system and the allergen . This is well captured by IgE, but the cells on which these antibodies were fixed will then release a quantity of pro-inflammatory substances (histamine, leukotrienes, etc.)responsible for the allergic crisis .

Symptomatic treatment…

The management of allergic diseases is based on the avoidance of allergens, provided that they have been identified. It is generally associated with pharmacological treatment. As for specific immunotherapy (STI), also called desensitization , it consists of gradually accustoming the body to the allergen. Faced with increasing amounts of the substance, the body develops a habituation. In recent years, research has tended to focus on a key organ of immunity: the intestine . Intestinal microbiota imbalances, dysbioses, have thus been implicated in the dysfunctions associated with allergies .. This is why a modulation of the microbiota by a specific supply of probiotics constitutes a lead in the prevention of allergies. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids are used to strengthen the tightness of the intestinal mucosa, and therefore limit the inflammation process.

… with a comprehensive approach

Dr. Marc Beck , general practitioner, phytotherapist and expert in micronutrition explains: “Whatever its tropism, allergic inflammation corresponds to a particular immune response.” “It is characterized by an excess of Th2 lymphocytes, and therefore by an imbalance in the Th2 and Th1 balance, but also by an increase in IgE.” The good news is “that it is possible to intervene at this immune level”, he adds. How? “Through the targeted administration of probiotics and/or herbs.” He quotes: “… licorice , elderberry and turmeric which will curb Th2. As for the action of plantain extracts , it will tend to inhibit IgE. Probiotic strainscan also stimulate Th1 lymphocytes and thus maintain the balance with Th2 .” Broadly speaking, therefore, it is a question of “working the ground”. In practice, the doctor observes “ a disappearance of the allergy in 3 to 4 years . But above all a reduction in symptoms from the first year. All without side effects”, concludes Dr. Beck .