Mechanisms of allergies and ginger
1. Inhibition of mast cell degranulation
6-shogaol and 6-gingerol inhibit mast cell activation by IgE allergens, reducing the release of histamine, tryptase, and prostaglandins. In vitro: -50% histamine release in activated mast cells.
2. Reduction of IgE and Th2
Allergy involves Th1/Th2 imbalance (Th2 dominant → high IgE). Ginger restores balance via Th1 and regulatory T-cells: -25% specific IgE after 6 weeks.
3. Leukotriene inhibition
Leukotrienes cause nasal congestion and bronchial spasms. Ginger inhibits 5-LOX → reduction of leukotrienes → similar mechanism as montelukast (Singulair) but less potent.
Seasonal pollen in Belgium and preventive protocol
| Pollen | Season Belgium | Start INTI protocol |
|---|---|---|
| Birch (betula) | Apr–May | Mid-March (4 weeks prior) |
| Grasses | May–Jul | Mid-April |
| Mugwort (artemisia) | Jul–Sep | Mid-June |
FAQ allergies & ginger
Can ginger replace antihistamines during pollen season?
Partially for mild to moderate allergies. For severe allergies, 2nd generation antihistamines (cetirizine, loratadine) are more potent. Ginger can reduce the required antihistamine dose and is particularly useful as a preventive measure.
Does ginger help with allergic asthma?
Allergic asthma is more serious — bronchospasm can be dangerous. Ginger can help complementarily but NEVER replaces bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids. Consult your pulmonologist.
INTI — Get Through the Belgian Spring Sneeze-Free
Natural antihistamine. Anti-IgE. Anti-leukotrienes. Cold press.
Related articles
Read more about related topics :
- INTI and seasonal allergies: sugary drinks worsen hay fever — ginger as a natural antihistamine
- Ginger and Seasonal Allergies: Hay Fever, Rhinitis and Natural Antihistamine
- Ginger for Allergy and Hay Fever: Naturally Reduce Histamine and Pollen
- Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria: IgE, IgG Anti-FcεRI, NF-kB and Ginger
- MCAS: When Mast Cells Do Too Much and Ginger Helps to Inhibit
- Ginger for Allergic Rhinitis & Hay Fever: Antihistamine & Anti-Leukotriene Action
- Ginger and Allergic Rhinitis: ginger cold hay fever, inflammation-nasal-passages">ginger sinusitis and Respiratory Allergies
- Ginger and Seasonal Allergies: Allergic Rhinitis, Pollen and Histamine