More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies. An allergic response is a mistaken immune reaction to foreign particles that normally do not cause the body any trouble. These particles may be pollen, animal dander, dust, mold, bacteria, and etc. People with allergies inhale these and the body reacts as if it were being invaded by a pathogen. They experience sneezing, runny nose, red, itchy, watery eyes, headache, coughing, and wheezing.Chinese medicine views symptoms of allergies as a reflection of imbalances in the meridians and the body organs. Meridians are the channels through which energy (Qi) travels through the body to nourish the tissues and organs. In a person who suffers from allergies, these imbalances cause problems with the functions of the organs that affect the production of Wei Qi. According to Chinese medicine, “Wei Qi” functions to protect and defend the body against foreign invaders that can lead to symptoms of allergies and the common cold. When the supply of “Wei Qi” becomes inadequate, our immune system is compromised, resulting in misplaced immune response to foreign invaders.Acupuncture treatments could open the blockage and redirect the flow of Qi. Improved circulation of Qi throughout the body will in turn support and strengthen the systems of the body that are involved in the production of “Wei Qi”. By increasing and facilitating the free flow of Wei Qi, symptoms of allergies could be reduced and/or eliminated.For treating allergies, acupuncturists will gently place needles at the points of related meridians. Patients usually feel relaxed and comfortable during the treatments. The symptoms usually improve with a few sessions of acupuncture treatments. Some people may need tune-ups, depending on seasonal changes and their own conditions.The principal of Chinese medicine is to treat the person as a whole. The goal of acupuncturist is to develop a plan where they focus on alleviating discomfort during the acute allergy attack and to address the root cause of the imbalances to help the body to restore the balance. In addition to acupuncture, your practitioner may combine it with acupressure, Chinese herbal medicine, and Chinese dietary therapy. These therapies will help accelerate the healing process by balancing, building, and supporting the “Wei Qi” of the body.If you are interested in finding out more about your symptoms and what acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can do for you, contact us today.