From Sniffles to Serenity: The Power of Acupuncture in Allergy Season
Acupuncture can be used to treat so many other issues than pain, for example, seasonal allergies. However, I know some of us, me included, would consider them a huge pain. Especially when I saw on the news that this year’s pollen season is predicted to start earlier and last longer. It’s always so challenging when we finally have sun and warm weather, but I become a sneezing and sniffly mess when I go outside. More than a quarter of adults experience seasonal allergies in the United Stated. Symptoms of seasonal allergies can vary from person to person, but common ones are runny nose, itchy nose, sneezing, red and itchy eyes, sore throat, headaches and fatigue. 1.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, seasonal allergies are viewed as an external invasion that impacts the Lung Organ System. The functions of the Lungs are:
· Govern qi and respiration
· Control the channels and blood vessels
· Control the diffusing and descending of qi
· Regulate water passages
· Control the skin and body hair
· Open to the nose
· Control nasal mucus
· House the po (corporeal soul)
The Lungs are important in our immune system functioning because they help disperse Wei Qi (Defensive Qi) across the skin. Wei Qi helps act as a barrier to external pathogens, for example, pollen. In acupuncture treatment the main focus will be to strengthen the functioning of your Lung. A study completed in 2015 showed that acupuncture was significantly better than sham acupuncture for decreasing seasonal allergy rhinitis symptoms. 2.
Here are some other tips to help manage your allergy symptoms:
1. Drink Chrysanthemum (Ju Hua) tea.
2. Change your pillowcase daily.
3. Shower after being outside.
4. Workout indoors.
5. Daily Neti pot to help rinse out your sinuses.
Acupuncture offers a promising and holistic approach to managing seasonal allergies. By targeting the Lung Organ System and enhancing the body's natural defenses, acupuncture can provide relief from the common symptoms that many of us face during allergy season. As we navigate through the challenges of seasonal allergies, integrating acupuncture into our wellness routine can lead to a healthier and more comfortable life.
Schedule your acupuncture appointment today and take a step towards better health and well-being.
Bibliography
1. Mammoser G. Why Spring Allergies Are Expected to Be Longer, Stronger This Year. Healthline. Published March 14, 2025. Accessed April 3, 2025. https://www.healthline.com/health-news/spring-allergy-season-2025#Limit-pollen-exposure-when-you-re-outside
2. Xue CC, Zhang AL, Zhang CS, DaCosta C, Story DF, Thien FC. Acupuncture for seasonal allergic rhinitis: a randomized controlled trial. Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. 2015;115(4):317-324.e1. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anai.2015.05.017