Southside Magazine March 2016

Page 59

health & beauty

are in a hyper reactive state. What starts out as a skin irritation can develop into allergic airways and recurrent bronchitis if not assessed comprehensively. What are the conventional methods of treatment? Conventional medication for skin allergies helps to reduce discomfort locally through mild steroid creams or antihistamines which quickly reduce inflammation. In severe cases, cortisone ointments may be suggested. For respiratory allergies, steroid sprays for the nose, bronchodilators and steroid-based anti-inflammatory puffs can bring acute relief, which is important. Medication may be given for chronic sufferers. What do homeopathic remedies do differently? Medication that suppresses external symptoms can help at surface-level, but, since the immune sensitivities within the body remain, the tendency for allergic reactions continues. Holistic treatments such as homeopathy and nutritional therapy aim to balance from within and thus help mitigate the overall allergic tendency.

stopping the remedies should not result in a return of the original symptoms. What would you say to those who are skeptical about homeopathy? Homeopathy has received a lot of criticism: firstly, for the ultra-high dilutions and secondly, as some “homeopaths� suggest prophylactic (preventative) usage without clinically documented proof. However, there is positive clinical and trial evidence of the benefits of homeopathy for illnesses including allergies and ADHD. Eczema is my favourite as the before-and-after pictures are objective evidence of healing. It is important that your homeopath is clear on what he or /she can and cannot do and gives you a timeline for recovery.

Dr. Hattangdi-Haridas’ tips for combating allergies 1. In damp weather, keep indoor humidity below 60 percent to reduce mould and dust mite growth. Avoid constant contact with upholstery, cushions and carpets that cannot be washed often. 2. ForIn infants, generally, I suggest solely breastfeeding in the first year of life with the introduction of solids from six months and formula after the first year. 3. Adults, children and pregnant women should take the appropriate combination and dosage of probiotics and Omega-3 oils. 4. Reduce processed food in the diet and include more homemade whole foods. Wash vegetables and fruit before eating to remove oil-based pesticides on the outer surface.

Is homeopathy safe? The point of homeopathy is to gently stimulate the body to heal itself. Homeopathic remedies are made using natural sources, such as plants and minerals. When processed in sterile licensed laboratories and prescribed by an experienced practitioner, they are safe for children and pregnant women, do not have side-effects or withdrawal reactions and are non-addictive. In the case of food-based intolerances, elimination diets must be sensible and done under nutritional guidance to ensure correct substitution of the essential nutrients. In your experience how long do these treatments take? For a few recent rashes homeopathic treatment would show results within a few weeks. With generalized long-term hypersensitivities, it would take between three to 18 months. In most cases, positive changes are seen within the first two to three weeks. Once the treatment is complete,

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