Allergies are a common immune system response that can cause a range of symptoms, from mild itching, congestion, and rashes to severe anaphylaxis. If you suffer from allergies, you may have tried a variety of medications and treatments to manage your symptoms, but have you considered acupuncture as a complementary therapy?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. While the exact mechanisms by which acupuncture works are not fully understood, it is thought to stimulate the body's natural healing response and regulate the nervous system, including the immune system.
Research has shown that acupuncture can be a helpful therapy for managing allergy symptoms. For example, a 2015 study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that acupuncture reduced symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and improved quality of life in study participants.
Acupuncture may work to alleviate allergy symptoms in several ways. For example, acupuncture has been shown to:
Reduce inflammation by lowering levels of inflammatory cytokines in the body.
Promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can exacerbate allergy symptoms.
Regulate immune function by balancing the activity of immune cells and supporting overall immune function.
If you're interested in trying acupuncture to manage your allergy symptoms, it's important to find a qualified practitioner who is trained in acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine. During your initial consultation, your practitioner will assess your health history and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs and symptoms.
In addition to acupuncture, other lifestyle factors can also play a role in managing allergy symptoms. Eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, staying physically active, and avoiding allergens when possible can all help support overall health and wellbeing.
NAET for Allergies
NAET (Nambudripad's Allergy Elimination Technique) is a non-conventional therapy that is sometimes used to treat allergies. Developed by Dr. Devi Nambudripad in the 1980s, NAET is based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine and involves a combination of acupuncture, acupressure, and energy medicine.
The theory behind NAET is that allergies are caused by blockages in the body's energy pathways, or meridians, that can be cleared by stimulating specific points on the body. During a NAET session, the practitioner will use muscle testing to identify the allergen that is causing the reaction, and then use a series of acupressure and acupuncture techniques to clear the blockages and reset the body's response to the allergen.
In conclusion, acupuncture and/or NAET can be a helpful therapy for managing allergy symptoms by reducing inflammation, promoting relaxation, and regulating immune function.
Nicole Peterson, LAc, MAcOM is a licensed acupuncturist in Ashland, Oregon. She loves sharing her passion for natural approaches to health through her online blog and at her clinic, Ashland Family Acupuncture. Contact us for an appointment or free consultation. 541-631-9649