Springtime has arrived in full bloom here in Portland! With beautiful sprays of colors and aromas, the wonderful arrays of blossoming trees, and the multiplicity of flowers peek bravely from the landscape to greet the sun. Unfortunately, this season arrives with a variety of pollens, dust and other foreign substances that brings suffering to many of us, instead of the sublime enjoyment that the season should usher in.
Why are some of us cursed with seasonal allergies? Why is it that some are susceptible to allergies their whole life and some with no history of allergies suddenly find themselves sneezing with running noses and itchy eyes? Allergies develop when your immune system responds to these normally harmless substances by producing antibodies, instigating histamine reactions, inflammation and irritation. In some people, this results in itchy rashes, others may experience a constantly runny nose or watery eyes. Some reactions are much more difficult to live with such as wheezing, difficulty breathing, and even anaphylaxis which can be life threatening.
From the perspective of Chinese Medicine, these are all treatable conditions.
These conditions are brought about by blockages of the bodies Qi delivery system, the Jing ((經) which we normally refer to as the channel system), as well as weaknesses in specific organ systems, most often the Lung system and the Liver system. Weakness in the Lung system will produce reactions such as wheezing and runny nose or nasal congestion, but will often produce skin reactions as well because the skin is part of the Lung system. Liver system symptoms may include dizziness, foggy mind, or irritability. The eyes are considered part of the Liver system in Chinese Medicine, so dry, red or itchy eyes are common as well.
Acupuncture, the use of paper thin needles to rectify imbalance in the channel system, can be a very effective tool for the remediation of the symptoms associated with seasonal allergies. It can also help to address the underlying deficiencies that perpetuate the condition. Acupuncture can be used to reduce inflammation, mucus production, itching and even improve the breath all without the side effects of medications often taken for the same reason.
Additionally, Chinese Herbs can be recommended and are a great benefit to those suffering from seasonal allergies. The art of making herbal remedies goes back thousands of years and has been used to treat a huge variety of conditions. They can be both effective in alleviating symptoms as well as reducing the severity of allergies overall.
Consider acupuncture and Chinese herbs to address your allergies this year and restore your body to health. Experience the difference! Now available at both of our clinics! Schedule an appointment online or contact our office at 503-718-7991. Give us a call if you have any other questions or would like us to check your acupuncture insurance benefits!