What is Garlic allergy?

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Garlic is one of the most popular herbs used across the globe. Garlic is scientifically known as "Allium sativum". It belongs to the Alliaceae family and closely resembles leek, chives and onions.  Its name is commonly associated with the bulb of cloves found underground, below the leafy, scallion-like growth. Two most popular varieties of Garlic are hardneck and softneck. This aromatic, seasoning herb adds an excellent taste and aroma to any food; it can spice up otherwise bland dishes. The medicinal use of Garlic dates back to ancient Egypt. It is also lauded as a very effective health boosting herb. However, some people are not fortunate to enjoy and savor its taste. They suffer from garlic allergy and react badly it. These people are actively allergic or intolerant of garlic, whether through ingestion or skin contact. Though food allergies are commonly seen, a garlic allergy is relatively rare. Moreover, there is no cure for a garlic allergy.

What is Garlic Allergy?

Garlic allergy can be simply defined as "intolerance to garlic or garlic based products". Food allergies occur when an individual's immune system reacts to certain ingredients present in a food item. Garlic allergy can occur on ingesting garlic or inhaling garlic dust. Even skin contact with the spice can result in severe reaction. Garlic allergy affects people who handle or chop plenty of fresh garlic. Several studies have found that garlic allergy is so powerful that even wearing gloves fails to combat reactive symptoms. 

Why do some people have Garlic Allergy?

Garlic allergy occurs due to Diallyl disulfide (DAS). It is produced by decomposition of allicin. This sulfur compound acts as an "allergen". Immunity cells in the body produce immunoglobulin E (IgE), a type of antibody, to combat these reactive compounds. The human body also releases histamines to counteract the effects of the allergens.

What are the symptoms of Garlic Allergy?

The type, intensity and duration of garlic allergy symptoms vary from individual to individual. Common symptoms include:

• Stomach Upset: People who suffer from garlic allergy can suffer from stomach upset after its consumption. They can also feel nauseated and suffer from diarrhoea. However these symptoms may not be severe. However, if allowed to continue, these can lead to dehydration.
• Flatulence: Formation of gas in the first few minutes after consumption of garlic can be another symptom. Individual can suffer from abdominal swelling or bloating associated with mild stomach ache. 
• Rhinitis: This is a mild symptom of garlic allergy. The victim can suffer from a runny nose. The mucous lining of the nose becomes swollen due to excessive amount of mucous formation. A doctor should be consulted if the condition persists for long periods of time.
• Skin Rashes: Skin rashes can be mild or severe. In mild cases, affected skin can turn pink or red. The victim may also suffer from itching sensation. In a severe garlic allergy reaction, hives may appear. The region gets swollen. Patches can be formed. Cold compresses can be used to relief the pain. Other symptoms include swelling of the lip, throat and tongue, wheezing due to inflammation of the trachea. In severe cases, there can be a sudden drop in blood pressure and loss of consciousness.

How is Garlic Allergy treated?

Anti-inflammatory supplements like Bromelin is found to be effective for treating garlic allergy. It should be taken 20 minutes before or after the meal. At times, garlic allergy can increase due to lack of digestive enzymes. So HCl tablets can be taken before or after meals. 500 mg of Quercitin is prescribed for 3 times a day to prevent garlic allergy. 1000 mg of bioflavonoid, if taken 3 times a day, can drastically reduce the symptoms of garlic allergy. 

What are the natural remedies for Garlic Allergy?

Simple home remedies can help to combat garlic allergy. One may completely prevent garlic to avoid such health complications.

• 2 to 3 cups of green tea without milk can be consumed regularly.
• Natural honey can be added instead of sugar. It is very effective in preventing garlic allergy. Ginger is packed with natural anti-histamine compounds.
• If the victim is not allergic to ragweed then chamomile can be added to the tea. Chamomile is considered as natural anti-histamine.
• Apple cider vinegar can be diluted in warm water and applied on hives. It gives instant relief.

For additional information on Garlic, click on the links below:

Benefits of the Herbal Wonder Drug : Garlic

Sinus Congestion Remedies Without Antihistamines

Garlic help for Back & cervical pain

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