Grass Pollen

Grass pollen – just when you thought it was safe to go outside.

Spring is over and you are rejoicing because allergy season is coming to an end.  Summer is in the air.  You step outside and ah chooo…. your allergies kick back in and you feel miserable.  Guess what? You are probably allergic to grass pollen. 

Grass pollen is a common trigger for allergies and symptoms like runny or stuffy nose, red, itchy eyes and that annoying tickle at the back of your throat. 

Why at this time of year?

Grasses tend to start growing in the early spring. In the late spring and early summer, they release pollen into the air. The wind can carry it for miles. You may not see pollen in the air but wind-carried microscopic pollen is the worst culprit for allergies.

Below is the list of most common allergy causing grasses:

·         Bermuda grass

·         Johnson grass

·         Kentucky bluegrass

·         Orchard grass

·         Redtop grass

·         Rye grass

·         Sweet vernal grass

·         Timothy grass

What days are going to bring out the worst in my grass allergies?

Dry, windy days. Wind carries pollen in the air, especially when it's dry and sunny. When it's cold or damp, pollen counts are usually lower.

Eating certain foods. If you're allergic to grasses, your allergy symptoms are more likely to be triggered by certain fruits and vegetables that have proteins like those in pollen. Fresh celery, melons, peaches, oranges, and tomatoes are just a few you might want to avoid.

Unmowed grass. Most types of grass release pollen only when they grow tall. The pollen comes from a feathery flower that grows at the top. If you keep your lawn short, the grass is less likely to release pollen.

Obviously, don’t cut your own grass.  Delegate. 

To help with grass or other pollen related allergies Sublingual Immunotherapy is a method of allergy treatment that uses an allergen solution given under the tongue. Over time, sensitivity to allergens are reduced. In 1998 the World Health Organization concluded that Sublingual Immunotherapy was a viable alternative to the injection route and that its use in clinical practice is justified. 

Texas Trees Allergies

Texas Trees Allergies– and a trip to the Forestry Museum.

Have you visited the Texas Forestry Museum?   It’s one of the largest museums of its kind in the United States.  It is a fun place for the whole family to look at the past, present and future of trees - How we grow trees, harvest trees, transport trees, process trees, and use trees in our daily lives. Featured exhibits include Sawmill Town, Paper Mill, Money Trees, logging train, fire tower, and Urban Wildscape Trail.

Texas trees are not always viewed as icons of the state. The Lone Star State, usually brings visions of cattle, cowboys and oil wells. However, between 1890 and 1900, the timber business of Texas brought more money to the economy of the state than any other industry.

The 14 million acres of the East Texas Pineywoods are still important to Texas. Sawmills, logging railroads, and modern forest management have all influenced East Texas culture. The story of the people, places and products of the Pineywoods are the focus of the exhibits at the Texas Forestry Museum.

Why, because even though 1 out of 6 Americans suffer tree allergies, Texans love their trees.  They are great for climbing, for getting some desperately needed August shade or as easy-to-remember landmarks for locals giving directions to tourists or new comers.

The Texas trees are beautiful and it’s no wonder the Forest Service has designated a growing number of "Famous Trees of Texas." In the past 40-plus years, they've given the designation to 87 trees, 65 of which are still living.

The trees can be famous for their beauty, for their historical significance or for having a special place in the hearts of locals.  Do you celebrate the Texas trees or curse them for the allergies they induce every Spring and Fall?

Don’t miss out on the Texas Forestry Museum exhibits or a chance for a fun family vacation.   Plan ahead by taking an allergy medication or supplement such as Allergena Trees, Weeds, and Grass.  Using  this product once daily, can act as a supplement to lessen the severity of  tree allergies. 

Pollen Allergies

Pollen Allergies – Which trees make me sneeze?

Pollen allergies and the trees that make us sneeze are the trees without showy flowers which are wind-pollinated.  Their pollen is light and produced in great abundance, far more than that of insect-pollinated trees. These are the trees that cause hay fever during the spring months.

Not all the wind-pollinated trees cause problems for people with allergies. Pines and spruce, for example, have a waxy pollen that rarely cause a reaction. The pollen of birches, poplars, ashes and several maples, on the other hand, are the bane of people who suffer seasonal allergies.

Then again, we don’t want to give wind-pollinated trees a bad name.  Many are dioecious, having male and female flowers borne on different plants. For these trees, there is an easy solution to the pollen problem.  Simply plant female trees only. They receive pollen, but never produce it.
If it were only that simply, these days we decidedly plant “seedless” trees (the male), especially in urban and suburban settings.

Why are male trees so popular? It’s because they’re clean.  Male trees produce only pollen, which is usually invisible. They never produce seeds that fall to the ground and accumulate, potentially blocking gutters and drains and adding to our yard work.

Female trees don’t produce pollen, but instead all those annoying seeds. That’s why cities and subdivisions generally avoid female trees.  But by choosing “neatness” as the ideal criteria for tree selection and planting almost only male trees, cities are causing hay fever to run amok.

In an ideal world all the trees that make us sneeze would be replaced by non-allergenic trees.   People would ban together to promote girl trees, figure out how to save the world with all those extra seeds all for the good of our health.

That day has not yet arrived. People with Pollen allergies still suffer from the trees that make us sneeze.  How do we defend ourselves from all this maleness?

The Five Most Common Trees in Texas

Among the ample vegetation in the grand state of Texas, there are five most common trees in Texas.

Without a doubt, the state of Texas is huge. And with a vast variety of plants and trees, there are five that you will find far more often than any others. Here are the five most common trees in texas:

Red Maple. The red maple tree, commonly found in the northeast, is extremely adaptable. It has the ability to grow and flourish in any climate. The distinctive red color gives it its name. The red maple produces maple syrup and is commonly used for lumber. It is a very beautiful tree. Because of its beauty, you will find it used in artwork very often.

Pecan Tree. The official state tree for Texas is the pecan tree. James Stephen Hogg, the governor of Texas in 1906, requested a pecan tree be planted over his grave. Once the tree yielded seeds, he also requested the seeds be planted all over the state. Because of this request, the pecan tree became one of the most common trees in Texas.

Live Oak. Among the largest and most beautiful, live oaks proved to be a domineering force that matched the personality of the state. Texas is actually responsible for coining the term "mott" which is defined as a group of live oaks.

Bald Cypress. Also referred to as southern cypress, white cypress and swamp cypress, the bald cypress is the most common name for this tree. The cypress is a deciduous type of tree. This means that it loses its leaves in the winter leaving it completely bare. East Texas is the most common place to find this tree because it thrives in moist and swampy conditions.

Mesquite. The mesquite tree is one of the most common trees in Texas, despite being an intruding and invasive type of tree. It is found all throughout the state of Texas. They are not very large by nature. However, they are very hardy and provide many different uses. Most commonly, it is used as fire fuel for barbecues and fire pits. Mesquite's wood when burned, provides smoke that adds a distinct and incredible flavor to food being cooked with it.

Although beautiful and mighty, these five most common trees found in texas can be the culprit to your seasonal allergies. Find out your Allergena zone here. Allergena offers sublingual products to help with your tree allergies in any zone you live

Tree Allergies

Tree allergies can trigger symptoms in unknowing allergy sufferers even when sitting around a campfire this summer.

If you’re sneezing, congested and dabbing your watery eyes in the spring and early summer, blame your trees. Maple, mulberry, and oak trees bloom during this time of year predominantly. Ash, elm, juniper and pine bloom and pollinate at the tail-end of winter and finish by early spring. Asthma-related allergies are common with tree pollen and can be severe in some people. But did you know that even burning the wood from the trees that you are allergic to can trigger these same allergies year-round?

You can suffer the symptoms of tree allergies from wood-burning fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, campfires, even wood dust in woodworking or hobby shops. Inhaled wood dust, in itself, can be hazardous to your health over time. But there are specific types of wood that can worsen allergy symptoms. There are also a few that are toxic. Burning wood, or creating wood dust, releases pollen into the air causing an allergic reaction. This can be a major irritant for people sensitive to smoke. Mixing smoke with released airborne pollen can cause irritation to your eyes, nasal passages, and especially in your lungs. It is also possible to cause skin irritations, hives, and rashes on those who have skin sensitivities.

If you have a confirmed tree/wood allergy, it's important to check for a related family of that wood. Click here for a complete list of trees, their associated families and their associated symptoms. If you are allergic to one type of tree, you will share similar allergic symptoms with any in that related wood family.

Aside from avoiding being around burning wood, you can plan ahead by taking an allergy medication or supplement such as Allergena Trees, Weeds, and Grass. Using this product once daily, can act as a supplement to lessen the severity of these tree allergies. Speaking with your doctor or allergist can help to pinpoint exactly what allergen is causing your symptoms. When you know the root of the problem, it's much easier to take safeguards on being symptom-free.

Rain Allergies and Asthma: Are You Allergic to Rain?

You may not be exactly allergic to rain but rain may cause severe asthma and allergy symptoms in some people.

Roughly 95% of people with asthma suffer from allergies. Rain can irritate those with asthma especially severely. Heavy rain typically washes pollen out of the environment. But before it gets to that point, rain often causes pollen spores to burst sending a large amount of pollen into the air. This happens most during light rains. Pollen particles and grains get broken apart releasing tiny particles into the air. Winds from thunderstorms help the pollens to travel farther distances as well.

When an allergy sufferer breathes in these freshly burst pollen grains, it can cause severe asthma symptoms called "thunderclap asthma." This causes an allergic reaction in the lungs for those with and even without an existing asthma condition. Research suggests that a storm's electrical charge can make pollen more sticky. This can increase the chance that these pollens will cause major irritation if and when inhaled.

Dust mites, animal dander, molds, and pollen are the most common triggers of asthma and allergy symptoms. However, summer rains can cause increased symptoms. Research shows a relationship between thunderstorms and worsening of asthma and allergies. Thunderclap asthma doesn't necessarily mean you are allergic to rain. But it does increase the chances of breathing issues and allergy symptoms.

There is hope. There are steps you can take to decrease the rain's effect on your allergies and asthma. Keeping your windows closed, showering and washing your hair and bedding at night all can help to keep the pollens to a minimum. Pay special attention to upcoming weather reports. Keep asthma medication with you at all times because inclement weather can strike without any warning. Try to stay indoors when you know a rain storm in approaching. Taking products designed to help with asthma and allergies on a regular basis can help as well. Allergena Fragrance helps with airborne allergens that can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms. Being prepared is your best defense to keeping your asthma and allergies to a minimum when it rains.

Exercise-Induced Allergies

Some people dislike exercise and claim they are allergic, but exercise-induced allergies really do exist.

When starting a new exercise plan, it's common to feel winded, out of breath, flushed, dizzy and exhausted. Less common, are these symptoms when you exercise regularly for months and haven't changed intensity or duration. If you experience these symptoms and you are physically fit and exercise regularly, you may have exercise-induced allergies.

Exercise-induced allergies may hit during or after exercise. It can trigger an asthma attack in people who have a history of asthma. But, in exercise-induced allergy sufferers, they may only experience asthma while they exercise. This type of asthma is more likely during really cold weather when the air is very dry. People may have difficulty breathing, cough, wheeze and need to use their inhaler to breath normally.

On rare occasions, strenuous exercise can cause a potentially severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. In this type of reaction, breathing becomes difficult, blood pressure may decrease causing dizziness and fainting. This type of reaction is often found in people allergic to specific foods such as shellfish or peanut allergies. However, people with exercise-induced allergies can experience the same symptoms when they eat specific foods prior to exercise without a negative reaction. Once the individual begins to exercise, an anaphylactic reaction may occur. An epinephrine pen (Epi-pen) can save this individual's life in this circumstance because an anaphylactic reaction can be dangerous and life threatening.

So how can you find out if you have exercise-induced allergies? You will have to talk to your doctor. Symptoms typically are triggered once you exercise and occur after 5-10 minutes of moderate to intense exercise. A diagnosis will be based on your symptoms and how they relate to exercising. Your doctor may perform an exercise challenge test. This test measures lung function before, during, and after exercise on a treadmill or recumbent bike.

For people with asthma, taking medicine to control asthma symptoms prior to exercising prevents symptoms. Additionally, people with exercise-induced anaphylactic reactions will need to avoid eating the food causing these reactions several hours prior to exercising. An epi-pen should always be carried for emergency treatment in the event of this type of reaction. It is also always recommended that you exercise with someone or in a public place.

Living with exercise-induced allergies follows the same methods as living with any type of allergy. Once you are aware of your symptoms, see a doctor for a proper diagnosis, you can find effective ways to live a normal healthy life. Products such as Allergena-Allergy can help your body heal itself and decrease symptoms of allergies, especially when taken with traditional treatments. Make sure to speak with your doctor before beginning any new exercise program.

Allergic Rhinitis

What is allergic rhinitis? 

Allergic rhinitis are allergies. Rhinitis is defined as "an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose."  It is sometimes referred to as hay fever and happens when your immune systems reacts to pollens in the air that you breathe. This creates an allergic response. This causes sneezing, runny nose and congestion. You may have these symptoms all year or just certain seasons.  Occasionally, allergies and their symptoms affect you less over time.  More commonly, their severity gets worse as time passes. So how can you tell if you have allergic rhinitis?

• Sneezing. Frequent and repetitive sneezing, especially when you first wake up.
• Runny Nose. Clear, thin and constant drainage signals allergic rhinitis. (If the drainage is thick, yellow or cloudy this is a sign of a cold or infection.)
• Irritated Eyes. Watery and itchy eyes.
• Irritated Mucous Membranes. Irritated and itchy ears, mouth and nose all indicate allergic rhinitis.

What causes allergic rhinitis?

Pollens from grass, weeds, trees and animal dander are most common and well known. Just as common, but lesser known, are allergies to dust mites, cockroaches, mold, cereal grain, wood dust and certain chemicals. If you are showing symptoms only certain times of the year- seasonally, then the most common culprits are pollens and molds. However, if your symptoms are year round, dust mites and indoor allergens are what is causing your allergic rhinitis symptoms. Having your doctor administer a skin allergy test is the most accurate way to determine which one is causing your symptoms. This involves putting a small amount of a particular allergen on your skin to see what reaction your body produces.  Your immune system will over-react to things your body is allergic to by developing a rash or hives.
Once you know for certain what your body is allergic to, you can proactively lessen your symptoms with certain products specially formulated for that particular allergen.  Products such as Allergena Natural Allergy Relief, not only help to ease allergic rhinitis symptoms, but assist in helping your body's immune system heal.  This encourages our body to heal itself so your symptoms lessen naturally over time.

Pet allergies. If you have them, you know it's nothing to sneeze at, so what is it that we're allergic to and why?

Animals have become cherished additions to our families. We love them like children, and in most cases they love us just as much, if not more, in return. Not everyone experiences pet allergies. Unfortunately, some of us experience mild to severe allergies from these loved ones. Some people have little to no allergy symptoms around cats and dogs, some are allergic to only cats, while others can't even have a pet because of severe allergic reactions. Up to 10% of the population in the United States is allergic to pet allergens- dander. Blame genetics. Pet allergies often runs in families. People with pet allergies tend to have a higher incidence of sensitivity to dander when their parents have pet allergies. Similarly, if you have a pet allergy, the chance of passing this allergy to your children is far more likely. Children with both parents allergic to pets are up to 80% more likely to have a pet allergy themselves.

Most people mistakenly believe that their pet allergy is caused by pet hair. This is not the case. We're actually allergic to pet dander. But what is dander? Dander is microscopic flakes of animal skin that travels through the air and lands on our skin, in our eyes, mouths and in our noses creating an allergic reaction. It is not so much that we're allergic to these microscopic skin flakes as we are allergic to what's IN these skin flakes (dander). Dander is composed of urine-derived proteins which is secreted from an animal's skin glands. These proteins, in addition to saliva proteins on dander from grooming, is where the bulk of our allergies comes from. So even though your pet may groom and lick his fur, it's the protein and saliva on the DANDER that remains the major source of pet allergens.

We all love our pets and I believe most of us have just learned to accept the symptoms. It's important to know that with continued, untreated exposure, your pet allergies may silently trigger worsening asthma, allergic sinusitis or allergic rhinitis. While it's not very realistic to buy a hypo-allergenic pet (hypoallergenic cats actually do exist!), you can take a daily remedy to lessen your pet allergies such as Allergena Pet Dander. It works great and is safe to use daily. We do so much to show our pets we love them, why not do something for ourselves to ensure we're loving them without the misery of pet allergies?

Homeopathy

Homeopathy is gaining much recognition and popularity, so what are the benefits?

"Homeopathy is a medical philosophy and practice based on the idea that the body has the ability to heal itself. Homeopathy was founded in the late 1700s in Germany and has been widely practiced throughout Europe. Homeopathic medicine views symptoms of illness as normal responses of the body as it attempts to regain health."

Homeopathy, Allergies and SLIT

Homeopathy treats allergies in the body regardless of the specific cause.  This is a great thing for people who suffer from more than one allergy or ailment. Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) treatments through homeopathy offer relief for a variety of allergies, ailments and their symptoms. Sublingual immunotherapy is an alternative and effective way to treat specific allergies given as a few drops of liquid or dissolvable tablet placed under the tongue. The specific allergen is given to boost tolerance to the allergy and reduce symptoms. Homeopathy and Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) used to treat different ailments and allergies is not a new phenomenon. It is widely used throughout the world and has been for hundreds of years.

So why is Homeopathy beneficial?

Homeopathy treats the person as a whole. This treatment enables the body to heal by resetting the immune system, making it healthier and stronger.This is important because when your immune system functions properly, you no longer react to substances in a way that trigger an allergic reaction. Therefore, homeopathy provides relief from all allergy symptoms your body is experiencing. These include, but not limited to, grass and tree pollen, mold, dust mites, pet dander and even things like candida overgrowth.

Homeopathy is safe and natural. One of the greatest benefits to homeopathy is that it is safe. It is safe enough even for small children and pets without any of the side effects or risk of adverse reactions common with many traditional medications. It's affordable, made from natural substances and is FDA regulated.

Homeopathic treatments are individualized for what ails YOU. This ensures that your particular symptoms are relieved by your body restoring itself and improving your overall health. Traditional medicines treat the symptoms, many times with side effects, while homeopathic SLIT therapies treat the body to eliminate the symptoms and ailments causing them. Simply put- It helps the body to heal itself.

If you would like to learn more about homeopathy, sublingual immunotherapy, Allergena or Allergena Products click here.

Summer Allergies

It's no surprise most people eagerly anticipate the arrival of summer. But with summer's arrival comes summer allergies.

The days are longer, the weather is warmer and the official start of summer is quickly approaching. Summer is a time for outdoor activities, picnics, barbecues, trips to the beach or pool and vacations. With all the fun, unfortunately for some of us, comes sneezing, runny noses, itchy watery eyes, wheezing and coughing. Having summer allergies doesn't have to ruin your fun. Identifying which allergens are highest in your area or zone can help you determine how to nip your summer allergies in the bud. If you haven't specified which allergens are causing your symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor. He will do a skin test checking for common allergens based on where you live- your zone.

Nationwide, the most common culprit for allergies is pollen. Specifically, tree and grass pollen affects most allergy sufferers in the spring and early summer and mold and weed pollen mid- to late summer. The types of pollen will vary from zone to zone, but they do tend to follow a consistent pattern seasonally.

Even though it is not possible to avoid pollen entirely, here are some simple ways to help you lessen your symptoms from summer allergies:

• Use a preventative product daily - Allergena -Each product is customized to specific zones. This ensures you will get the relief YOU need to alleviate and prevent symptoms.
• Avoid exercising outdoors when pollen count is high. These tend to be hot, dry and windy days and usually between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
• Wear protective clothing such as a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Not only are these things crucial to protect you from the sun's harmful rays, but they also help prevent pollen from getting on your face and in your eyes.
• Keep windows closed and make sure fans are not positioned to blow air from outside into your home.
• Wash your hair at night and change your clothing before getting in to bed. This way you aren't bringing allergens onto your bedding.
• If you're allergic to mold, get a dehumidifier for your home. Mold thrives in damp and humid environments. Additionally, wearing a face mask while mowing your lawn and gardening will keep those mold spores at bay.

Apple Trees Allergies

Apples trees represent a classic American Symbol; but what do they do to your classic American allergies?

It's difficult to tell how apple trees impact our allergies. Most of the articles you find are focused on how the actual fruit causes allergic reactions as opposed to how the tree causes allergic reactions.
Apple trees, like Magnolia Trees and other large flowering trees, the pollen is larger and heavier and does not tend to impact our allergies much.

While Apple Trees are not a common offender these trees are:

• Ash
• Aspen
• Beech
• Birch
• Box elder
• Cedar
• Cottonwood
• Elm
• Hickory
• Mountain elder
• Mulberry
• Oak
• Pecan
• Willow

People who suffer from allergies because of these trees may be more likely to experience swelling or itchiness in the mouth eating fruits such as apples, almonds, carrots, celery, cherries, coriander, fennel, hazelnuts, kiwi, peaches, pears, or plums. While these are all grown on trees, it is not the pollen from the trees that cause allergic reactions. 

If you experience tree allergies try our Texas Trees Sublingual Immunotherapy Drops.

Here We Go Round The Mulberry Bush

Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush is a familiar nursery rhyme and singing game.

This a Mulberry tree. During the spring it causes allergic reaction around the country. This is a flowerless tree so the pollen is fine to allow transportation by any means necessary. The pollen is sticky and fine. These factors result in bad allergies for those who suffer. 

Do you recognize the song Here we go round the Mulberry Bush? 

Wonder where it originated? Read On!

This is the most common version:

Here we go round the mulberry bush,
The mulberry bush,
The mulberry bush.
Here we go round the mulberry bush
On a cold and frosty morning.
Here we go round the mulberry bush,
The mulberry bush,
The mulberry bush.
Here we go round the mulberry bush
So early in the morning.

This song is to have originated in 1840 and historian R. S. Duncan claims, a former governor of England’s Wakefield Prison, the song originated with that 420-year-old institution’s female prisoners, who were exercised around a mulberry tree. Which is probably not the connotation your six-year-old self had in mind.

The Cottonwood Tree

The Cottonwood Tree and it's flying seeds.

As we know, pollen is in the air, but there is no better tell tale sign than when you can actually see it flying through the air on cotton. The Cottonwood has two stages of seeding. 1. Is the release of yellow/green pollen and 2. Is the transcendence of the seeds in a fluffy white cotton.

Just because you see the fluff doesn't mean that what's causing allergies.

The Cottonwood is in the Poplar Family. This is the same family as the Juniper and Mulberry. 

Poplar Trees, otherwise known as cottonwood, is a pollen-producing tree that grows throughout North America. Poplar pollen induces a variety of allergic symptoms in some people, including asthma, red eyes and hay fever. Due to the similarities between the allergens in poplar pollen and proteins in some plant products, there is often a link between poplar tree allergies and a condition known as oral allergy syndrome.

Remember that it is usually the non-flowering trees that have smaller, lighter pollen and are more likely to cause more severe allergies.
 

Eucalyptus Tree

The Eucalyptus Tree is a wonderful tree for your yard if you don't mind the allergens. 

We recently had a comment on the Facebook page about someone's allergies being Eucalyptus so I decided to learn more about this strange tree.
Often when we hear Eucalyptus we think about the smell or the Koala Bear. Both are reasonable.

This type of Eucalyptus Tree is found in Australia.

In the United States there are several different versions of Eucalyptus offered. I am most familiar with the Silver Dollar because it is widely used to embellish floral arrangement. I think it is beautiful and I love the smell of Eucalyptus. Many lotions, massage cremes and body oils use it as an enhancing scent.

This particular branch is from the Ceder Gum.

The Eucalyptus Tree is originally from Australia and New Guinea. There is apparently... if you didn't know... and argument on whether to allows tree farmers to increase the population of the Eucalyptus. 

The Pros of Eucalyptus Tree Farming:

• It is fast growing
• Fragrant like a flowering tree.
• Does not drop leaves seasonally
• Quickly reproduced cut or broken branches
• Natural flea and tick repellent
• Versatile to grow indoors or out
• Known to promote respiration and treat skin problems.

The Cons of Eucalyptus Tree Farming:

• It is not native to North America
• Its aggressive nature can over run native vegetation
• Peeling bark presents forest fire kindling
• Providing food and shelter for North American wildlife is unknown
• Are durable to cold and drought, they absorb twice as much ground water as native trees.

What Allergens can we expect from the Eucalyptus Tree?

LiveStrong reports that Eucalyptus present a very low airborne presence. The elude to the allergic reaction to Eucalyptus come more from the fragrance and less from the pollen.

For Allergena Fans, don't forget we make a formula for Fragrances as well as vegetative pollen.

Crape Myrtle Beautifully Flowering Trees

Crape Myrtle Trees (Crepe) are the premier summer flowering tree of the Southern US because it can with stand heat, humidity, drought and cold winters.

These gloriously flowering plants can be seen in miniature, shrub sized, to towering trees like the one above. The are available in various colors centered around white, magenta and violet. To select a size and color see the chart at: Aggie Horticulture They list over 50 variations of this magnificent tree.

• Very Dwarf ;1 - 3 feet Mature Height
• Dwarf; 3 - 6 feet Mature Height
• Semi-Dwarf; 5 - 12 feet Mature Height
• Small Tree; 10 - 20 feet Mature Height
• Tree; 20 + feet Mature Height

Growing Crape Myrtle trees are easy with the proper guidance. 

The Crape Myrtle Company, based in Florida, offers this advice:

1. Select the site where you wish to plant your new Crape Myrtle: Crapes can be grown all over the USA, in any soil type. Bright light, full sun, or partial sun. No heavy shade. More sun = More blooms
2. Dig a Hole Large Enough for your Specific Variety of Crape Myrtle and Replace the soil with... read more
3. Plant Your New Crape Myrtle... read more
4. Add Mulch... read more

Crape Myrtle Trees for Allergy Suffers

This beautiful tree is listed on WebMD.com as one of the best trees, shrubs to plant in your yard if you have allergies. Because of the large size of the pollen from this tree, you will not expereince allergic reactions from the existence of this tree in your landscaping.

Magnolia Trees - avoid allergies!

As it turns out, for people who suffer from allergies. The Magnolia Tree is on the list of the Best Types of Trees for allergies.

When I was a teen, I watched the movie Steel Magnolias. I had never heard the word "Magnolia" before. I assumed from the name of the movie, that a Magnolia was a flower and that it was a tough flower. Well, that's exactly right!

How can this flowering giant be good for allergies?

 Remember, the pollen that ignites our allergies and allergy symptoms are airborne allergens. They are pollen particles that are small enough for the wind to carry them. Many trees that produce heavy, durable flowers, have heavy pollen particles that are only likely to travel on insects, birds feathers and animal hair. This large, heavy pollen is unlikely to travel by wind.

Forestry.about.com says this:

One rule of thumb - flowers with large blooms usually produce heavy (large particle) pollen. These trees attract insects that transport pollen and do not depend on wind transportation. These trees are generally lower in their allergy potential. Also, "perfect" flowers on trees are desired. A perfect flower is one that has both male and female parts in a single flower - not just male and female parts on the same tree. Perfectly flowered trees include crab apple, cherry, dogwood, magnolia, and red bud.

 Texas Trees by Allergena, will help you with allergies produced by airborne pollen. 

My Allergies put me in Anaphylaxis

Have you been on the weather roller coaster? I bet your allergy symptoms are screaming too!

Allergen Map - 3/6/2015

Last weekend, in the Southwestern USA, we were body slammed by a snow storm that delivered 9 inches in 24 hours. In the 24 hours that followed, the sun shined so warmly, the 9 inches was reduced to puddles. All of it! That sunny, clear, warm day my allergies went through the roof. This was the first time I had ever experienced allergies, anywhere. I suddenly understood what regular allergy sufferers complain about. By the end of the day my tongue began to swell. Straight to the drug store for the almighty Benedryl. The anaphylaxis I began to experience was quickly wiped out, along with every other bit of consciousness. I was totally knocked out for 13 hours and woke up with a hang over.

It is the changing weather, from snow boots to bathing suits in a 24 hour period sends confusing messages to the plant life.
The EPA says this:

Expected Changes in Pollen Seasons, Growth, and AllergenicityIncreases in temperature, carbon dioxide (CO2), and precipitation tend to favor the proliferation of weedy plant species that are known producers of allergenic pollen.  Higher levels of CO2 in the atmosphere act as a fertilizer for plant growth.  Warmer temperatures and increased precipitation cause some plants to grow faster, bloom earlier, and produce more pollen. Temperature changes are expected to alter allergy seasons to begin earlier and last longer and the distribution of allergenic plant varieties to change over time.
Recent scientific studies also suggest that climate-related temperature changes are expected to increase the potency of airborne allergens.  Such changes increase the concentration of pollen in the air, the length of the allergy season and the strength of airborne allergens, and associated increases in allergy symptoms.
Climate change will allow certain allergen-producing plant species to move into new areas, and wind blown dust, carrying pollens and molds from outside of the United States, could expose people to allergens they had not previously contacted.  Exposure to more potent concentrations of pollen and mold may make current non-sufferers more likely to develop allergic symptoms.

Fortunately, reactionary medication is not your only option. Have you thought about immunotherapy. For seasonal allergies, the allergens are regional and a series of allergy shots may not be needed. Allergena offers Immunotherapy developed specifically by region. The Allergen sublingual drops and NOW Tablets. Visit our website to pick your Zone. 

Cigarette Smoke Makes Allergies Worse

To begin cigarette smoke makes everything worse. 

I am a smoker and I can't think of one single thing cigarette smoke makes better except my cravings to smoke! I am torn, often, because I do enjoy my cigarettes but I know, for a fact, how bad they are for me. I do not smoke around my children, and I stand clear of others who are not smoking. As much as I enjoy lighting up, I am not ignorant to the many factors of why they make my life more difficult. Including, but not limited to, my allergies.
Interestingly, I had never experienced allergies until I started smoking. Aside from all the scientific evidence, when I am experiencing allergy symptoms, the cigarette smoke irritates my eyes. It also stinks, obviously, and the stench lasts on my skin, hair and clothing.
Because I am a product of upper level education, I am a stickler for the proof:

Does cigarette smoke make allergies worse?

I read 20 articles lined with "they say" and "studies show" but these article don't site their source. We all KNOW cigarettes are bad. They kill. Second hand smoke causes asthma, lung disease, cardiovascular disease and emphysema. There is hard proof of these health risks. But for allergies, the sited study shows that smoking reduced the symptoms of allergies by reducing the mast cell response to allergies while not impacting mast cells from carrying out other functions. 

Clinical & Experimental Allergy

Volume 39, Issue 5, pages 679–687, May 2009

Conclusion Our study suggests that exposure to cigarette smoke may lead to a reduced allergic activation of mast cells without affecting their response to activation via e.g. bacterial-derived LPS.

I am in no way encouraging smoking for anyone, I don't care how bad you allergies are. If you don't already smoke, do not start. If you do smoke you already know you should stop. Just saying, study listed above reflects that cigarette smoke does not make your allergies worse.

Alternatively, if you have allergies and you want help, try Allergena Sublingual Immunotherapy Drops. There is a formula for you specific to Where you live!

Cedar Fever Strikes Back

Reporting on Pollen Counts Begins: Texas Cedar Fever is in the air!

Central Texas reports that cedar pollen counts are on the rise; and it's only January. If you suffer from cedar fever, you need to start thinking about your plan. Itchy, watery eyes, sinus pain and pressure, dry cough, runny nose. 

Have you thought about Immunotherapy?

Wiki says Allergen Immunotherapy is:

Sublingual immunotherapy drops involves putting drops of allergen extract under the tongue and then swallowing the extract. Besides its efficacy, sublingual immunotherapy is known to have a better safety profile than subcutaneous immunotherapy and one of the significant benefits of sublingual immunotherapy is also that the patient can take the treatment at home. It is thus also considered a patient-friendlier formulation than subcutaneous immunotherapy, while ensuring the same efficacy.

Allergena offers Texas Trees is Natural Allergy Relief for Texas for adults and children.
What to expect: 
You will begin drops treatment by placing drops under your tongue. The drops contain allergens for specific things per the label.  The shots provide support to the immune system to build resistance pet allergies.

Texas Ash Tree - Related Allergies

The Texas Ash Tree is a beautiful cause of Allergies

The Texas Ash Tree (also referred to as Mountain Ash) is native the counties surrounding the Dallas - Fort Worth areas and areas south of Central Texas. It is a large shade tree characterized by a superior level of drought resistance. The tree's foliage is a lush green, becoming all colors from bright yellow to deep red through the autumn months. 

Typical Allergy Symptoms caused by the Texas Ash Tree may include:

• Asthma-like symptoms
• Itching
• Sneezing
• Wheezing
• Headache
• Sinus pain
• Breathing problems
• Tearing eyes
• Runny nose
• Itchy eyes
• Itchy throat
• Dark circles under eyes
• Conjunctivitis
• Asthma
• Persistent upward rubbing of nose
• Red eyes
• Cough
• Sore throat

Texas Trees by Meditrend is a Sublingual Immunotherapy Product that will help reduce the allergic impact of trees and grasses. Click the photo below to view our Information Sheet:

Buy it Now! Let the Relief Begin!

My Tree is Better Than Your Tree! The Long Leaf Pine

Why would you cut down one kind of tree to make room for another kind to grow? Isn't one tree as good as the next.

I'm sure there is a simple answer to this but, I don't understand why you'd cut down one kind of tree so another kind can grow. I read a story about re-populating the Long Leaf Pine from Texas to Carolina.

The answer is, not every tree is made equal. East Texas Rancher has adopted the long leaf pine efforts for the benefit of the natural habitat in Texas. Simon Winston, rancher, says this:

“What I like about them is that when they are young you can burn in them,” Winston said. “Loblolly you can’t burn in them until they are bigger.” 

Prescribed burns are a conservation practice used on longleaf pine forests. Fire reduces moisture and nutrient competition. The elimination of brush and other woody species also allows for native grasses and foraging plants to thrive. In turn, wildlife are drawn to the understory of longleaf pine forests.

“We’re getting wild plums and seeing more deer. There’s something for them to eat and for the birds to nest in,” Winston said. “Burning helps establish bluestem grasses which are good nesting habitat for turkeys and quail.”

Long Leaf Pine Forest

The Long Leaf Pine is more resistant to fire. (That's one reason) Apparently populating with this pine ensures survival of vegetation despite the occurrence of natural fires. Other hardwood trees burn quickly and take years to grow back.

These evergreen do take decades to develop which is why these forests are depleted. 200 Years ago to the present they were desirable to loggers. Developing a forest that can endure natural disasters will also provide enduring home and safety for wildlife. That's kind of the bottom line. We all know what happens when there is a shift in wildlife populations... you end up with more flies.

Texas Oil - Olive Oil

Who would have guessed Texas Oil would ever refer to Texas Olive Oil?

Olive Trees are becoming an important part of Texas Economy!

Do you associate olives to the Mediterranean Sea? I usually do. Do you know that an increasing amount of the world's olive production happens in the United States. While California is currently the leading producer, Texas represents a close and closing second.

I've listed some Texas Olive Oil Ranches:

Bella Vista Ranch

Central Texas Olive Ranch

Sandy Oaks Olive Orchard

Texas Olive Ranch

The olive tree has been growing on our beautiful plant for thousands of years. Olive trees have been known to survive up to 1500 years but typically survive 500. This is a desert tree that can sustain decades of desolation and drought and find its way again to thrive and flourish for generations of human nourishment. 

Olives can be eaten raw, but they are quite bitter. Typically when we eat olives they have been fermented. Olive oil is another use as well as ingredients in dietary supplements and skin care products. The olive is a wonderful source of the good fat (monounsaturated fat.) 

The olive tree has always looked to me like a wise old person, with years of experiences to tell. A little creepy, but seated back waiting for company to join. 

Although is doesn't appear to be the Olive Tree is an evergreen. This said, it is another tree producing pollen contributing to allergies throughout the year. Yet another reason to seek Allergy Immunotherapy by Meditrend.