Remember the game Space Invaders?
Just like the game hero, our bodies are attacked by various invaders on a daily basis. And while some people are prepared for the attack, others are not.
Our immune system is designed to protect the body from invaders of all kinds. It recognizes, responds to, and clears out foreign substances which penetrate the protective barriers of skin and mucosal surfaces. Irritants cause the body to react by releasing mediators. This is the body’s natural way of defending itself.
Each mediator has a specific function. For example: histamine and serotonin are designed to constrict smooth muscle cells. Prostaglandins can regulate the release of histamine.
Serotonin increases vascular permeability, allowing for fluid to accumulate in the affected parts of the body. Let’s not forget about bradykinin which is a potent vasodilator that increases the permeability of the blood vessels.
Unfortunately, the release of all these compounds can be uncomfortable for the host (you). There is a silver lining:
Stinging Nettle Leaf (freeze-dried)
Stinging Nettle helps to keep the immune system balanced, and has specifically been studied as a way to relieve hay fever. In a study done by the National College of Natural Medicine (now the National University of Natural Medicine) in Portland, Oregon, 58% of hay fever sufferers reported stinging nettle to be effective, and 48% of the hay fever sufferers said 300 mg of the freeze-dried stinging nettle was as effective as other allergy medications.
Freeze drying maintains the biologically active constituents present in the hairs of the stinging nettle.
Quercetin
Quercetin is an extremely active bioflavonoid which inhibits the manufacture and release of histamine. It also acts as an antioxidant, sparing Vitamin C for other actions.
Vitamin C
A noted antioxidant and immunostimulant (big word for “it supports your immune system”), Vitamin C inhibits histamine release and helps break it down if it is released.
Soothing magnesium, the enzyme bromelain and stinging nettle leaf help to keep the immune system on an even keel.
Available in tablet form (90 or 120 count) or liquid (4 oz. bottle).
