Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine are preparing to conduct the first of three clinical trials on an herbal formula to determine whether it protects people with peanut, tree nut, fish, or shellfish allergy from anaphylaxis. The formula comprises an extract of nine herbs that have been used extensively in traditional Chinese medicine.

If successful, the formula would be the first therapy to prevent this severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. The study will be a randomized, placebo-controlled trial on 18 patients between the ages of 12 and 45 who are allergic to peanut, tree nuts, fish, or shellfish.