Complementary and alternative interventions in asthma, allergy, and immunology

Area of Science:

• Integrative medicine
• Allergy and immunology
• Herbal medicine research

Background:

• Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is increasingly popular for allergic and immunologic conditions.
• Herbal remedies are frequently used for asthma and allergy symptom management.
• Understanding the safety profile of these herbs is crucial for patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review commonly used herbs in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for asthma, allergy, and immunologic conditions.
• To identify potential adverse effects associated with these herbal interventions.
• To inform allergists and clinical immunologists about CAM use in their specialty.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of PubMed and OVID databases (1980-2003).
• Keywords: asthma, allergy, CAM, and specific herb names.
• Inclusion of in vitro, in vivo, clinical trials, and case reports.

Main Results:

• Echinacea and garlic are common CAM agents for respiratory allergies and colds, with potential risks like hepatotoxicity and allergic reactions.
• Other reviewed herbs (e.g., ephedra, licorice root, St. John's wort) also carry significant adverse effect profiles.
• Hypersensitivity reactions are a common adverse outcome across many CAM interventions.

Conclusions:

• The field of allergy and immunology has experienced a substantial rise in CAM popularity.
• Most CAM interventions carry risks, primarily hypersensitivity reactions.
• Healthcare providers need enhanced knowledge of CAM to guide patients effectively on its use and potential risks.