Honey is widely known as a delicious natural sweetener. But did you know that it has health benefits, too? Now, research shows that honey may alleviate allergies through immunotherapy, which involves exposure to a small amount of the substance you’re allergic to. In turn, that decreases your sensitivity to the allergen and makes you react less. If you’re wondering how honey can be incorporated into your allergy relief regimen, a Las Vegas allergy doctor will gladly explain.

Go Local

The key to success for using honey as an allergy relief aid is to choose local honey. Local honey contains pollen derived from local flowers, which means that you’ll have more exposure to the specific plant, grass, or tree pollen you’re allergic to. In small doses, this exposure helps you build up immunity.

Honey vs. Conventional Allergy Treatment

Honey, some experts say, has the same basic concept as allergy shots. Both help your body build up immunity to the allergen through gradual exposure. Over time, you can slowly increase the amount of allergen that you’re exposed to, which in turn builds your immunity even more. Immunotherapy can be equally effective whether you use local honey, allergy shots, or a combination of both. A Las Vegas allergy doctor can help you determine an immunotherapy plan that works best for your allergy goals and personal preferences.

Honey and Allergy Relief

Many people use honey-based products for allergy relief, including coughs. In fact, honey is often a substitute for conventional medications that can produce unwanted side effects, such as cough medicine. Honey produces a coating in the throat that alleviates irritation. In turn, it helps control coughs and post-nasal drip. Honey can also be used in tea, which provides additional relief and health benefits. Before using honey for allergy relief, however, be sure to consult with an allergy doctor. This is especially true for infants, who can suffer from adverse side effects when exposed to honey.

Are There Risks?

As with any kind of allergy relief, honey may pose a risk to some segments of the population. Honey is generally not recommended for use in children under 12 months old, as it contains a toxin that can create a dangerous health condition called botulism. Infants are especially susceptible to botulism. Additionally, local honey is typically not processed. That means it can contain some harmful substances such as mold, bacteria, and spores. Some of the pathogens that enter honey can be dangerous for individuals with allergies.

For centuries, honey has been cherished as a tasty natural treat. Now, research is showing that it may provide allergy relief, too. If you’d like to find out more about how local honey may provide relief for your allergies, contact Dr. Tottori, the best allergist in Las Vegas, for an appointment today by visiting our website or calling (702) 240 4233.