Treating Allergies with Acupuncture

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Experiencing non-stop sneezing? Then you might be having an allergy! Sneezing and runny nose are some of the main symptoms of nasal allergy (Allergic Rhinitis).

Allergy Overview

An allergy is a reaction of the immune system to substances or some things which are not usually harmful.  The substances which cause allergies are called allergens; some allergens are:

  • Animal dander
  • Dust mites
  • Food (e.g. shellfish, nuts)
  • Insect bites/sting
  • Medications
  • Mold and mildew spores
  • Poison plants

The immune system produces antibodies to fight unwanted objects that may cause harm or illness. When a person has allergies, his immune system recognizes a particular allergen as harmful and releases chemicals called histamines which causes allergy symptoms like:

  • For allergens breathed in, symptoms are sneezing, runny nose, wheezing, coughing
  • For food allergy, symptoms include stomach ache, diarrhea, dizziness, nausea and vomiting
  • For skin allergy, symptoms include hives, rashes, blisters, itching or even peeling of the skin
  • For drug allergy, symptoms are varied

Acupuncture Treatment

Allergies and acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles to specific points (known as acupuncture points) in the body to restore proper flow of energy and eliminate allergy symptoms. In using this treatment, an acupuncturist practitioner will have to diagnose a patient depending on the type of allergy and symptoms manifested and then determine the correct acupuncture points for allergies. The commonly used acupuncture points for allergies are found on the head (e.g. face, ear).*

Studies conducted on acupuncture and nausea over the past years has been favorable. To treat this food allergy symptom, the proper acupuncture points for nausea must be determined. The widely used acupuncture points for nausea are P6 (located near or on the wrist) and ST36 (located below the knee). Based on studies done on allergies and acupuncture, this procedure is an excellent alternative treatment and recommended for alleviating allergy symptoms.*