When challenged by an allergen, our immune system reacts in one of two well-defined ways, depending mostly on the rap sheet of the invader. Following the trespasser-modulated stimulus to a “T helper cell” (see diagram), two functions will likely take place: activation of the yin (T helper cell 1 or Th1) and the yang (T helper cell 2 or Th2). As nature would have it, the chemical messengers produced by the Th1 helper cell prevent the over-expression Th2 activity, and vice-versa. Balance = health. The Th1 pathway is a normal response to invading pathogens (microbes, viruses, nematodes, etc.) whereas the Th2 response is stimulated primarily from unrecognized peptides (allergens – i.e. dust mites, pollen, pet dander, etc.). When imbalance occurs resulting in excessive Th2 activity, allergy and (possibly) arthritic swelling and pain are the unwanted consequences. If we can effectively stimulate greater Th2 policing (by increasing Th1), suppress the Th2 over-response, or intervene positively downstream in the Th2 chain-of-events, allergy discomfort will diminish.

Perilla Seed Oil
Perilla seed oil is a familiar adjunct in Asian medicine, used for centuries to treat coughing, colds and flues, and support lung health. It is high in alpha linolenic acid (an omega-3 fat) and a host of phenolic compounds known to have health-supportive value (luteolin, quercetin, catechins, apigenin, etc.). Not surprisingly, the oil has been found to contain key mediators known to suppress chemicals which promote allergic response and inflammation (histamine, thromboxanes, 5-lipoxygenase, and series 2 prostaglandins). In one eye-opening study involving 14 asthmatics, seven consumed perilla seed oil while the others were given corn oil. Those taking the perilla seed oil experienced a significant reduction in allergy potentiators while the corn oil participants had an increase. In addition, the perilla seed oil group showed a significant improvement in lung function and breathing parameters, all within 2-4 weeks.

It is likely that long-term consumption of perilla seed oil is safe. Even though there are few reported human studies, perilla seed is cash crop in Korea and a familiar component of Asian cuisine, being used safely for centuries. A conservative estimate of dosage is 6 grams of oil per day. For allergy-sufferers, look for products made from perilla seed oil (few on the market), not perilla oil (many on the market). NOW Foods, a reputable supplement company from Bloomingdale, IL produces “Entrox”, a perilla seed oil product (500 mg in softgels) which can be purchased at most health food stores. At Red Mountain, we have been successfully prescribing “Perimine” (a Metagenics product of standardized perilla seed extract with rosemarinic acid and luteolin) to guest clients for reducing allergy discomfort.

Other Useful Nutrients, Herbs, and Supplements
Although the argument for using perilla seed oil as an anti-allergenic agent is strong, other substances may offer support for reducing polarized Th1 discomfort. Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, for example, work upstream in restoring Th1/Th2 balance, midstream (displacement of arachidonic acid by omega-3’s), and downstream (vitamin E inhibition of leukotriene development). Probiotc Lactobacillus helps to stimulate a stronger Th1 response (which in turn modulates allergy-inducing Th2 activity). Adaptogenic herbs such as cordyceps, ashwagandha (Indian ginseng) and Panax ginseng effectively minimize Th2 polarization resulting from chronic stress. Vitamin C with flavanoids has been shown to decrease arachidonic acid (“your worst dietary nightmare” per Dr. Barry Sears) and some of its downstream products. Ditto for the popular culinary herbs turmeric, ginger, and boswellia.

Bottom Line
Without doubt, the best strategy for reducing allergy discomfort is avoidance of the offensive allergen – when possible. If you have allergies, consulting with a board-certified allergist is always advisable (for help with unique medical issues), whereas a naturopath or street-wise nutritionist can frequently provide useful nutrition support. Currently, perilla seed oil is the reigning anti-allergenic supplement champion (and your best first choice for natural intervention) with other nutrients, herbs, and supplements providing assistance in the battle for Th2 temperance. Popular allergy medications can also help you to reduce the symptoms of allergy-induced hay fever, congestion, etc., but be cautious. Many of these non-prescription products contain inactive ingredients which, in themselves, may induce allergy in susceptible individuals.

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