Feature
Herb
Nettles,
Eye bright and Elder: by Kali Simmonds Nettles, Eye bright and Elder are 3 herbs which may be used individually or together to counteract allergies - specifically hay fever. Nettle leaf is used for allergies, whereas the root is used for hormone problems such as BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) or enlargement of the prostate. It is believed that a polysaccharide and lectins are the active constituents. Nettle seems to be most effective for symptoms of sneezing and itchy eyes. There are no known contraindications for nettle. Adverse reaction are very rare and may include gastrointestinal upset and skin rash when contact is made with the fresh leaf. The recommended dosage is 300mg of freeze dried leaf 2-3 times per day on an empty stomach. Nettles combined with Eye bright (for redness and swelling of the eyes) and Elder flowers (inflamation and mucus) is even more effective. Fresh Freeze Dried Concentrates are the best choice followed by tinctures and fluid extracts. Treatment is most effective at the first sign of symptoms, or better yet just before if you can predict your reaction to budding trees!!! Kali Simmonds (902-894-3868) is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor, who practices in Charlottetown, PEI.
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