Allergic rhinitis is a common disease that is estimated to affect nearly one tenth of the U.S. population. It is caused by cascade of inflammatory mediators, initiated after contact of the nasopharynx with allergens such as grass, tree pollen, and animal dander. The disease is characterized by chronic nasal symptoms of obstruction, rhinorrhea, sneezing, and itching. Components of inhaled dust, such as mites and molds, or animal dander cause an imtranasal IgE-mediated response in atopic individuals. These perennial allergens active mast cells induce the release of potent chemical medicators that attract inflammatory cells such as eosinophils and basophils, and ultimately produce the signs and symptoms of allergic rhinitis. There are detailed descriptions of the clinical experiences and prescriptions of allergic rhinitis in traditional Chinese medicine. Kang-Min-He-Fang (KMHF) is one of the Chinese herbal medicines used to treat allergic rhinitis . In this study we will evaluate the effect of KMHF on clinical symptoms, serum total IgE, allergen specific IgE, allergen specific IgG4 and cytokines (IL-4？HHBIL-5？HHBIL-12？HHBINF-？HH^) in the treatment of allergic rhinitis.
