According to Chinese medical theory, the symptoms and signs that indicate a Western diagnosis of allergies relate to imbalances in the meridian and Organ Systems of the body. These imbalances may stem from a variety of causes, including stress, poor diet, constitutional weakness, pollutants and environmental toxins.
Over time, if imbalances remain within the body, they will affect the functions of the Organ Systems. Some of these Organ Systems are involved in the production of a strong and healthy immune system.
Our immune system functions to protect and defend the body against foreign substances that, if not caught, can lead to allergies. When immunity is strong and abundant, we remain healthy. When we are immunodeficient, health is compromised and we become vulnerable to foreign invaders such as dust, mold, animal dander, bacteria, viruses and pollen. People who have immune deficiencies are prone to allergies and frequent colds.
Acupuncture and Chinese medicine support and strengthen the systems of the body that are involved in the production of antibodies. By building up the immune defenses and facilitating the smooth and free flow of it through the body, symptoms and signs related to allergies could be greatly reduced or eliminated.
Allergies according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be due to a variety of factors. Below are some of the more common TCM diagnoses that your acupuncturist
may discover and treat.
- External Pathogen Invasions
- Spleen weakness
- Kidney deficiency
- Lung deficiency
What will an acupuncturist do?
An acupuncturist will conduct a thorough exam, taking a complete health history. They will then develop a unique treatment plan that will address your specific concerns. The goals of the treatment plan will be to eliminate visible symptoms and signs, while addressing the root cause(s) and underlying imbalances affecting the quality and quantity of immunity.
Acupuncture treatments may be combined with herbs, dietary changes, or breathing exercises. These therapies accelerate the healing process in order to balance, build, and support the body’s immune system.
Seasonal allergy tips:
- Flush your nose with a Neti pot.
- Add spicy foods and omega-3’s to your diet.
- Keep your windows closed during allergy season to prevent dust and pollen from entering.
- Put on a dust mask when you are doing yard or house work.
- Do not hang your clothes out to dry in the sun, as they
will gather dust, mold and pollen. - Come in for an acupuncture tune-up.
- Change your pillowcases daily.
- Avoid snuggling critters close to your face to prevent pollen they’ve gathered from being outside getting into your airways.
Acupuncture and Chinese medicine are a drug-free, safe, natural and effective way to eliminate hay fever, allergies or the common cold.
