Lauren Bradley has been battling a rare eye condition called perennial allergic conjunctivitis all her life.
The chronic ailment resulted in constant puffiness, redness and discomfort for the 18-year-old from London, which impacted Lauren’s self-esteem and daily activities.
However, her journey took a turn when she started following an unconventional natural treatment. Nutrition expert Dr. Emma Patel led Lauren to a unique diet loaded with blackberries and elderflowers, with the support of fruit bush provider Ashridge Trees.
“Blackberries and elderflower are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties,” said Dr. Patel. “These nutrients can help mitigate allergic reactions and inflammation, which may contribute to the symptoms of perennial allergic conjunctivitis. While this isn’t a cure, it’s an approach that worked wonders for Lauren.”
Dr. Patel suggested that Lauren grow her own blackberry and elderflower bushes, using fresh produce straight from the garden. With assistance from Ashridge Trees, renowned for supplying fruit bushes in the UK, Lauren embarked on this holistic method.
“We were happy to assist with Lauren’s transformation and provide her with the tools to grow her own fruit,” remarked a spokesperson from Ashridge Trees. “Seeing her achieve such positive results is incredibly rewarding.”
Speaking about her health journey, Lauren revealed: “For years, I felt like I’d never find relief. The puffiness in my eyes made me so self-conscious, and nothing seemed to work.
“When Dr. Patel suggested focusing on blackberries and elderflower, I thought it was worth a try. Growing my own fruit with help from Ashridge Trees has been amazing. It’s not just about my eyes looking betterI feel healthier and happier overall.”
Lauren’s home garden has become a sanctuary for her. The process of planting, nurturing, and harvesting her own fruit has provided not only fresh produce but also a sense of accomplishment and peace.
While Lauren’s story is certainly inspiring, it’s important to note that her experience is unique. Dietary changes and gardening may not be effective for everyone suffering from perennial allergic conjunctivitis, and it’s always recommended to consult a medical professional before making any significant lifestyle adjustments.
Dr. Patel highlights the effectiveness of Lauren’s recovery, noting: “What worked for Lauren was a combination of dietary focus, emotional resilience, and the therapeutic benefits of gardening. It’s a reminder of the surprising ways nature can support our health, but always seek professional advice first.”
Lauren has successfully managed her once-debilitating condition and her confidence has blossomed. Her garden, brimming with flourishing blackberry and elderflower bushes, is a testament to her remarkable journey.
Lauren has found that even the smallest lifestyle adjustments can have a significant impact on health. “I’ve learned that small changes can lead to big differences,” she shares, hoping to inspire others with her approach to well-being.
The virtues of blackberries and elderflower are gaining traction online, with Pressila Saliba, a licensed dietician, recently hailing blackberries as a ‘superfood’. She said of their benefits in a post: “Blackberries are rich in polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory and heart-protective properties. They contain more antioxidants than strawberries, raspberries, cranberries, and even blueberries.”
The expert also suggests ways to enjoy them, adding: “You can eat them fresh on their own as a healthy snack, add them to oatmeal, yogurt, a smoothie, or a fruit salad.”
BBC Good Food adds weight to this argument, noting on its website the potential health impacts of blackberries, stating: “There have been several studies examining the anti-inflammatory effects of blackberries, suggesting that blackberries may offer protection against inflammatory conditions (like arthritis), although more research is needed. One study in particular documented that blackberries reduced inflammation in gastric conditions, such as stomach ulcers, by as much as 88%.”
The health-promoting properties of elderflower are not to be overlooked either, with the National Library of Medicine in the US writing on its website: “Elderberry and elderflower constituents may possess inflammatory modulating activity, which increases their nutritional value.”