Butterbur herbal preparations for natural sinus relief may contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which have been known to result in toxic damage to the liver. Butterbur products should specifically state that the product is free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs).
Spirulina May Provide Natural Sinus Relief for Chronic Allergic Rhinitis
Spirulina a type of blue-green algae that may be useful for natural sinus relief of chronic allergic rhinitis. Spirulina is rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, antioxidants, B complex vitamins, beta-carotene, vitamin E, manganese, zinc, copper, iron, selenium, and gamma linolenic acid (an essential fatty acid) (6). Spirulina may increase healthy lactobacillus in the intestine which enables production of Vitamin B6 (6).
Spirulina Reduces Inflammation in Chronic Allergic Rhinitis
A study by Mao TK et al showed that Spirulina, has been linked with improved immune health benefits in prevention of allergic rhinitis. In a random double-blinded crossover 12-week study, one group was provided with 1,000 mg/day or 2,000 mg/day of Spirulina, while the other group took a placebo. The study used peripheral blood mononuclear cells which were isolated before and after Spirulina treatment. It was found that the cells developed a reduction in the IgE mediated inflammatory substance interleukin-4 (IL-4) by 32%. IL-4 is a substance resulting in inflammation following exposure to allergy stimulus. Results showed that Spirulina taken at 2,000 mg/day resulted in reduced cytokine production in immune cells which can be protective toward chronic allergic rhinitis. (3)
