Dealing with Seasonal Allergies, Part 2: Chinese Herbs with Acupuncture
In part 1 of our Dealing with Seasonal Allergies series, we talked about the different causes of seasonal allergies, and how the symptoms are your body’s way of reacting to these causes. That’s why not everyone has the same reactions and symptoms, and those symptoms are sometimes indications of a more systemic issue. Acupuncture is an excellent treatment for allergy symptoms, but combining Chinese herbs with acupuncture can initiate faster and more successful long-term results.
Chinese Herbs for Seasonal Allergies
Chinese herbs with acupuncture in Scottsdale not only helps to mitigate allergy symptoms, but they work together to really tackle the source of the problem and rebalance the system(s) causing the issues. Chinese herbs are formulated and combined to create a unique blend for each patient’s needs. They can come in a pill form like vitamins, or a powder form that can be stirred into hot water and sipped like a tea. Herbs can help fortify the immune system, making the body better able to fight off viruses, or help the body rid excess mucus, heat or cold.
In a study by Allergy, some patients received a combination of acupuncture and Chinese herbs to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (also known as hay fever). At the start of the study, the patients who were to receive Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments and patients in a control group reported very similar allergy symptoms. At the end of the study, patients who received TCM treatments reported much less severe symptoms and took less anti-allergy drugs than those in the control group. Plus, they also noted higher energy levels and improved psychological condition.
Consistency and Patience Lead to Sustained Results
In China, acupuncture, Chinese herbs and other TCM treatments have been helping combat allergy symptoms for literally centuries. But it’s not a simple or quick fix. While some symptoms may be relieved after one acupuncture treatment, others may take weeks or months to improve after taking Chinese herbs. But remember, these treatments are treating the source of the issue and not just the symptoms.
As with the study, many of my patients report using less anti-allergy medications after receiving TCM treatments, including over the counter medications like antihistamines, decongestants and steroid nasal sprays. These medications will never actually resolve allergies and sometimes they even promote dependency and a weakened immune system, which just makes matters worse. It’s also important to remember to get enough sleep and reduce stress, as these two things can contribute to ALL systemic issues. Acupuncture is especially good for helping with these two things, another reason Chinese herbs with acupuncture is a complementary combination.
Are you at your wit’s end with seasonal allergy symptoms and are tired of depending on medications for minimal relief? Why not try Chinese herbs and acupuncture in Scottsdale for a natural treatment? Contact me with questions or to schedule a complimentary consultation!
