Histamine, a compound that plays a pivotal role in our immune system, can also be the harbinger of discomfort for many people. While it is best known for its involvement in allergic reactions, histamine’s impact on the skin is often underestimated. In this article, we will delve into the world of histamine and its link to various skin diseases and shed light on the mechanisms.

Histamine is a natural chemical compound produced by our bodies we can also get it from certain foods. It is stored in specialized cells known as mast cells, basophils and lymph nodes, which all are part of our immune system. Histamine has a wide range of functions, including regulating stomach acid production, aiding in neurotransmission in the brain, vasodilation and contributing to the body‘s defence mechanisms.

However, histamine‘s most famous role is its involvement in the immune response. When the body detects an allergen or foreign invader, it triggers the release of histamine, which sets off a cascade of events designed to eliminate the threat. This includes causing inflammation, increasing blood flow, and attracting white blood cells to the affected area.

Histamine intolerance occurs when there is too much histamine in our body which we can’t break down. Since histamine is involved in many body functions, too much of it can have a widespread impact involving various systems such as the digestive tract, brain, respiratory system, and cardiovascular system. For example, non–skin related symptoms of histamine intolerance are irritability, anxiety, panic attacks, headaches, migraines, brain fog, seasonal allergies, asthma, acid reflux, digestive symptoms like stomach pains, diarrhoea and even PMS.