Complementary and alternative medicine may give allergy and asthma sufferers new options for treating symptoms, according to allergists at the annual scientific meeting of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) in Phoenix, Nov. 11-16. Allergists discussed how herbal treatments may be integrated into conventional allergy treatments, including a novel Chinese herbal formula for treating all types of food allergies.

“Integrative therapies blend the art and science of medicine,” said allergist William Silvers, MD, of the ACAAI Integrative Medicine Committee. “This exciting area of medicine offers a variety of complementary approaches, so each patient receives truly individualized care.”

One promising remedy is the Food Allergy Herbal Formula (FAHF-2), a Chinese herbal formula currently being tested for use to treat food allergies. Early research showed significant reduction in peanut-induced anaphylaxis in mice. Phase I clinical studies have shown that FAHF-2 is safe in humans.

“FAHF-2 has been shown to have a prolonged preventive effect up to 40 weeks,” said allergist Helen Chan, MD, of Hong Kong, vice chair of the ACAAI Integrative Medicine Committee. “It has also been shown to be safe, with very few side effects, and is a one-course treatment for all allergens.”

“The use of substances found in nature, such as herbs, foods and vitamins, can be helpful in treating various allergies when combined with traditional therapies,” said Dr. Silvers. “It is very important that patients consult their allergist before adding complementary modalities to their treatment plan.”

To learn more about allergies and asthma, take a relief test and find an allergist, visit http://www.AllergyAndAsthmaRelief.org

About ACAAI
The ACAAI is a professional medical organization headquartered in Arlington Heights, Ill., that promotes excellence in the practice of the subspecialty of allergy and immunology. The College, comprising more than 5,000 allergists-immunologists and related health care professionals, fosters a culture of collaboration and congeniality in which its members work together and with others toward the common goals of patient care, education, advocacy and research.

Follow the ACAAI annual meeting on Twitter at #ACAAI2010.

The ACAAI Press Room is located in Room 121B at the Phoenix Convention Center November 12 - 15, 2010; phone 602-514-5360, .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

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Source:  American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI)