Pycnogenol for Dog Allergies
Pycnogenol is an herbal supplement made from bark of the French maritime pine. The pine bark produces a water extract that’s said to have strong antioxidant properties similar to those in grape skins, among other fruits and vegetables. Throughout history, people have relied on pine bark’s healing properties to cure all sorts of illness, including scurvy. Today it’s credited for its inflammatory and anti-aging properties as well as helping to lessen the symptoms of allergies.
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About Pycnogenol
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Pycnogenol contains a high concentration of bioflavonoid called proanthocyanidins, which makes it so sought after for its superior healing properties.
Pycnogenol Healing Properties
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According to the manufacturer’s website, Pycnogenol has four basic properties. It’s an antioxidant. It reduces inflammation in the nasal passages and other irritated parts of the body. It connects collagen and elastin, restoring skin’s youthful look. And it constrains blood vessel walls and capillaries, which swell and become inflamed when a person with a dog allergy is exposed to a dog.
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About Canine Allergies
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Pet Education indicates 15 percent of the population suffers from dog or cat allergies. Dog sensitivities usually occur when a person is exposed to the dog’s dander (e.g., dead skin), saliva and/or urine.
The DaVinci Natural Therapy Center says an allergy is an inappropriate reaction by the body’s immune system when exposed to a substance that otherwise isn’t dangerous. In this case, when a person comes in contact with a dog, his immune system elicits mast cells that begin releasing histamine and serotonin in an effort to eliminate the foreign object (e.g., dander). As a result, the person begins to sneeze, nasal passages swell and run, eyes itch, a rash develops and/or breathing difficulties ensue.
Pycnogenol Effects on Canine Allergy Sufferers
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Pycnogenol is one of many natural substances that ease allergies symptoms. Additional substances include amino acids, certain vitamins (such as B6 and C) and sulfuric compounds. Pycnogenol helps calm the cell membranes of mast cells. As mast cells stabilize, they don’t go after invaders and generate histamine. In essence, when the person takes Pycnogenol the body’s immune system builds resistance to the allergen. Upon exposure to a dog, a person with canine allergies therefore becomes less likely to have an allergic reaction.
Use
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According to its manufacturer, Pycnogenol is safe to use and isn’t known to produce any serious side effects. While infrequent, users have reported mild side effects, such as headache, nausea, dizziness and gastro-intestinal discomfort. Allergy sufferers should take one tablet daily or follow the dosing instructions appropriate for their weight located on the supplement's packaging.
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References
- Photo Credit Dogs face image by adrian stones from Fotolia.com
