Acupuncture for Seasonal Allergies

Jul 25, 2020

Many people are beginning to turn to acupuncture and other alternative treatments for seasonal allergies that come along with the often hidden, seasonal changes here in Arizona. Many people in Phoenix are sensitive to the pollen in the mesquite and mulberry trees prevalent here in the valley, and notice these increases in pollen when the weather changes in the spring and fall.

According to Dr. Ezra Cohen, professor at the National University of Health Sciences in Lombard, IL, seasonal allergies are simply caused by the air we inhale.  The body recognizes external particles, such as pollen and air pollution, as foreign and triggers a histamine response, such as congestion, red, watery, itchy eyes, sneezing, and runny nose.  Allergy acupuncture can greatly reduce uncomfortable allergy symptoms while also improving immune function to reduce future occurrences of these histamine responses.  It is also proven to be effective in speeding up the healing process of the sinuses affected by the inhalation of this foreign matter.

Many people nowadays reach for over-the-counter antihistamines, which are effective in blocking the infection but also produce adverse side-effects, such as drowsiness and poor mental clarity. Some antihistamines can even negatively interact with certain high-blood pressure and other medications.

There are a lot of natural and herbal alternatives that can treat symptoms of seasonal allergies. These include a diet high in vitamin C and other antioxidants, herbal supplements, and homeopathic remedies.  Acupuncture can provide a safe and effective remedy in the immediate resolution of symptoms. More importantly, however, it can also help to balance the immune system and other individual root causes of allergies.

In acupuncture, there are specific corresponding points used to unclog the sinuses and mucus membranes. Other points work directly on helping your body rid itself of these toxins while still others help improve overall immune function. Individual results vary from one patient to another. Most patients experience an immediate respite of symptoms, and lasting relief comes after several consecutive treatments.

In a study done by Dr. Maureen Williams, a naturopathic physician from Quechee, VT, 52 people suffering from allergy were randomly tested to find out the effectiveness of acupuncture in healing allergies, each receiving either weekly acupuncture sessions or placebo for six weeks.  At the end of six weeks, allergic symptoms for those who received the allergy acupuncture treatment significantly decreased compared to those who received placebo. Likewise, 85% of those who were treated with acupuncture showed great improvement, compared to only 40% of those who received placebo treatment.

Allergy acupuncture usually begins with a series of 30-minute treatments over several weeks. This helps restore equilibrium in the immune system without the usual side effects of over-the-counter medications. This balance offers safe, far-reaching benefits for those who suffer from seasonal allergy and asthma.

Make this the season you explore alternative options in finding relief from your allergies by booking an acupuncture appointment today.

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