If your defensive qi is deficient, whether because it is continuously taxed or inherently weak, allergy symptoms may arise, such as watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, allergic eczema and sometimes local swelling. 

Though acupuncture has been around for over 2000 years, only more recently have there been many studies showing the effectiveness of these treatments for allergies. Treatments can enhance the effectiveness of any medications you might already be taking or help decrease the severity of symptoms. If you are taking prescribed medication, we suggest you talk to your doctor first before cutting back or eliminating any meds. 

For those who decide to try acupuncture, often the suggested care plan starts with twice a week sessions for the first few weeks, or months, depending on the severity of the symptoms. We then decrease the frequency of visits as symptoms become milder, either in intensity or recurrence. Ideally, in the end, you would come for monthly maintenance sessions to keep your allergies at bay.

Your Acupuncturist may also recommend some dietary changes as some foods may trigger an inflammatory response while others may help. Ever notice that spicy food makes your nose runny? Spicy foods are considered anti-inflammatory, so they may help your body’s reactions to allergens. Why not include some spice in your diet such as cayenne, ginger, wasabi, and chiles? Onions and garlic may also help, though the results might not be as strong as the former options. On the other hand, dairy products may cause more mucus production. So minimizing, or sadly but better yet, cutting out all dairy products may get you faster and better results in conjunction with acupuncture. 

Do you suffer from allergies? Do you want to stop relying on pills and sprays?

Contact oaktreehealth.ca and book your consultation and first appointment!