Addressing the Root Cause of Sinus Allergies

Sinus allergies are in full bloom right now. Do you have nasal congestion, itchy and watery eyes? Are you sneezing and sniffling?

These symptoms occur because the immune system reacts to pollen and other allergens that enter our body through the nose. When these foreign proteins enter our sinuses the body releases histamine, which leads to inflammation and swelling of the sinus passages. The body reacts like this to get the allergens out of the system. The mucus and sneezing help expel the toxins.

But this isn’t the only route the body uses to get rid of these allergens. The liver also plays an important role in toxin elimination. As some of the allergens enter the blood through the mucus membranes they are carried through the body to the liver. The liver filters the toxins out of the blood and eliminates them through the bile and out through the stool. The liver is like an oil filter on a car. The oil filter filters contaminants out of the oil and returns it to the engine. The liver filters out the allergens and cleans the blood.

Over the counter allergy medications like antihistamines shut down the body’s histamine response but don’t address the root cause of the problem. To do this effectively we also need to focus on our liver health. Focusing on liver health can play a significant role in managing allergies because the liver is responsible for detoxifying the body and processing environmental toxins.

When the liver is overwhelmed or does not function optimally, it can lead to an accumulation of allergens, which triggers or worsens allergic reactions. The liver’s role in managing allergies is closely linked to its ability to process histamine. Excessive histamine levels can overwhelm the liver’s detoxification pathways, leading to inflammation and allergic symptoms. By supporting liver function, the body can better manage histamine levels and reduce allergic reactions.

Consuming liver-friendly foods such as leafy greens, beets, carrots, and citrus fruits can support liver function. A balanced diet that minimizes processed foods and emphasizes whole, nutrient-dense foods is highly beneficial.

Drinking adequate water and consuming water-rich foods like cucumbers and watermelon can also aid in liver detoxification.

Certain supplements, such as milk thistle, N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC), and silymarin, are known for their liver-protective properties and can help support liver function.

Fasting is another great way to support liver function. Intermittent fasting (IF) has been shown to have potential benefits for liver function. Studies suggest that IF can lead to improvements in liver enzymes, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), which are markers of liver damage.

Acupuncture can also be a powerful tool for allergy relief. It works by calming the immune response, reducing inflammation, and supporting detoxification pathways – including the liver. Acupuncture helps reduce allergy sensitivity and frequency by addressing the root imbalances behind the symptoms.

If you struggle with sinus allergies, please pay attention to your liver. It could be a great way to reduce or even eliminate the problem.

©2025 Vital Health

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Gregory Anderton

Greg Anderton holds a Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and is a Licensed Acupuncturist. He is additionally trained in Clinical Nutrition and Herbal Medicine. He has over 20 years of experience in natural medicine. Greg is a “Health Detective,” he looks beyond your symptom picture and investigates WHY you are experiencing your symptoms in the first place. Greg is currently accepting new patients and offers natural health care services and whole food nutritional supplements at Vital Health in Coeur d’Alene.

Medical/Health Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article should not be construed as personal medical advice or instruction. No action should be taken based solely on the contents of this article. Readers should consult appropriate health professionals on any matter relating to their health and well-being. The information and opinions provided here are believed to be accurate and sound, based on the best judgment available to the author, but readers who fail to consult appropriate health authorities assume the risk of any injuries.

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