Acupuncture has the potential to be a potent immune system-supporting preventative technique. It is one of the five branches of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Since acupuncture has been practiced for millennia, interesting new research has been conducted to support some of its possible allergy advantages.
How allergy problems may be alleviated by acupuncture
A literature review concluded that acupuncture is a viable and safe treatment for those suffering from allergic rhinitis (1). Common signs of allergic rhinitis, also known as nasal inflammation, include postnasal drip, nasal congestion, and sneezing (2).
TCM states that these allergy symptoms are an indication of an immune system imbalance. This can be brought on by dust, pollen, or other seasonal triggers. Due to its inherent anti-inflammatory properties, acupuncture has the potential to be a successful allergy treatment (3). This includes irritated mucous membranes and nasal passages, which cause the above-mentioned common allergy symptoms.
What to anticipate from an acupuncture session
Acupuncture can help control allergy symptoms, but it works best when applied as a preventative to support immune system activation (4). Stated differently, don’t wait to strengthen your immune system until you’re experiencing severe symptoms.
If you choose to receive therapy, your acupuncturist will probably concentrate on the acupoints called Bitong and Yintang in addition to others.
Pressing on the Yintang point on the ‘third eye’ releases pressure from the eyes, nose, and head while also promoting mental clarity. Bitong is located next to the nose, precisely where the nose and nasolabial groove converge.
Researchers discovered that the Yintang acupoint injection assisted in the relief of rats’ allergy symptoms in an animal investigation (5). Such findings were obtained from a different investigation, this one included human: When three acupuncture points—Yintang and Bitong in particular—were compared to an oral antihistamine, the researchers discovered that while both forms of treatment offered momentary respite from the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, acupuncture was marginally more successful (6).
More strategies for dealing with allergies
Without a doubt, your immune system is developing and working every single day. It is creating specialized immune cells such as macrophages, neutrophils, natural killer cells, B-cells, T-cells, etc. It’s crucial to make sure you’re paying it the attention it merits because of this.
Your immune system can be strengthened with additional practices like being hydrated, getting enough diet, getting enough sleep, and more.
Acupuncture is frequently used with specific herbs used in TCM. Here are a few instances:
Astragalus and Reishi: These are best taken prior to the onset of symptoms, although they may also aid in immune system activation (7,8).
Red Magnolia Flower or Xin Yin Hua: Is a popular TCM remedy for clearing nasal passages (9).
Xanthium Fruit or Cang Er Zi: Is a well-liked TCM herbal medicine for allergies. Studies have indicated that Xanthium’s advantageous impacts on sinuses stem from a chemical known as caffeoyl anthocyanoside (10). It possesses anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. It should be noted that additional research is required to fully understand the impact on people, as these studies have only been done on rat models.
Related Post: Green Elixir: Chlorophyll’s Promise in Cancer Prevention and Healing
To Wrap Things Up
Even before the sneezing starts, maintaining your immune system might help lessen the impacts of allergy season. According to research, acupuncture may be a secure and useful therapeutic choice for treating a few of the typical symptoms of allergic rhinitis. However, it should be used with other regular immune-boosting activities.
Mark your calendar and join me next Friday, February 9th, at 7:00 PM (EST) for a LIVE session on ‘Strengthening the Immune System.’ This will be a good old fashioned educational discussion on the immune system, my clinical experiences of working with patients and what worked, and holistic tips for a robust immune system. Follow me on Instagram to join the conversation!
Sources |
- Acupuncture for the treatment of allergic rhinitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis – PubMed (nih.gov)
- Allergic Rhinitis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)
- The Anti-Inflammatory Actions and Mechanisms of Acupuncture from Acupoint to Target Organs via Neuro-Immune Regulation – PMC (nih.gov)
- Acupuncture modulates the neuro–endocrine–immune network | QJM: An International Journal of Medicine | Oxford Academic (oup.com)
- [Acupoint Injection at “Yingxiang”(LI 20) and “Yintang”(GV 29) May Relieve Nasal Allergic Symptoms Possibly by Down-regulating Expression of Histamine Receptor H 1 and H 4 in Nasal Mucosa of Allergic Rhinitis Rats] – PubMed (nih.gov)
- [Efficacy on perennial allergic rhinitis treated with acupuncture at three nasal poinits and the acupoints selected by syndrome differentiation] – PubMed (nih.gov)
- Efficacy and safety of Astragalus membranaceus in the treatment of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis – PubMed (nih.gov)
- Synergistic immuno-modulatory activity in human macrophages of a medicinal mushroom formulation consisting of Reishi, Shiitake and Maitake – PubMed (nih.gov)
- Chemistry and bioactivity of Flos Magnoliae, a Chinese herb for rhinitis and sinusitis – PubMed (nih.gov)
- Anti-allergic rhinitis effect of caffeoylxanthiazonoside isolated from fruits of Xanthium strumarium L. in rodent animals – PubMed (nih.gov)
Lissette says
I tried acupuncture for some other things and found it to be very helpful! I may try it for my son before allergy season hits because last year was a rough one for our allergies. Thanks for including links to your research!
Jasmine Feliciano says
You’re most welcome! Glad it inspired you to take preventative steps before the season!
Marvinette Hale says
Thank you! My allergies have been horrific lately
Jasmine Feliciano says
Aw, I’m sorry to hear that! I hope you consider this form of remedy as a boost for relief!
Angelia says
This was so interesting. I have dealt with year-round allergies for a very long time and tried numerous RX and over-the-counter products that haven’t helped much. I will definitely look into trying acupuncture. Thank you for sharing!
Jasmine Feliciano says
You’re most welcome! Glad it was informative. I hope it offers you relief!
Catherine Kay says
I don’t have allergies, but it’s good to know that acupuncture might help treat them. I used acupuncture last year to treat a muscle spasm and it worked great.
Jasmine Feliciano says
That’s so awesome! I’m glad your session was a positive experience for the spasm!
Tiffany says
Great tips! I’m not sure if I am brave enough to do acupuncture. I really don’t like needles or anything sharp penetrating my skin.
Jasmine Feliciano says
Totally understandable! Despite acupuncture using fine needles and offering minimal discomfort, it can be intimidating and a common reaction.
Eman says
Great tips. Thanks for sharing them.
Jasmine Feliciano says
You’re most welcome!
Katie says
I had no idea acupuncture could be used to help with allergies! As a kid, I never suffered from them, but in recent years, they have become unbearable, especially in early spring. I will keep this in mind. Thank you!
Jasmine Feliciano says
You’re most welcome! So glad it was insightful!
Andrea says
Wow! This is super interesting to me. I’ve never struggled with allergies until recently, but a couple of my friends struggle with it daily. I’ll definitely have to recommend this to them! Thanks for the detailed information!!
Jasmine Feliciano says
My pleasure!
Tereza Kumric says
Great info. Never thought of Accupuncture as a solution.
Jasmine Feliciano says
Thank you so much! Glad it was an insightful read!