Spring brings blooming flowers, warm weather, and—for many—seasonal allergies. What should be a time to enjoy the outdoors can quickly become uncomfortable when symptoms like skin rashes and respiratory issues take hold.
While antihistamines may provide short-term relief, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a more holistic approach that can help manage seasonal and other allergies. By addressing the root causes of imbalance, TCM aims to reduce symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Understanding Allergies from a TCM Perspective
From a TCM perspective, allergies stem from an imbalance in the body’s vital energy, or qi, often triggered by environmental, dietary, or constitutional factors. When wei qi—the body’s defensive energy—is disrupted, allergens can more easily penetrate and cause immune reactions.
Allergies are often associated with an overactive liver energy, which can lead to an excessive release of histamine and other chemical mediators. This triggers a cascade of symptoms, including itching, redness, swelling, and respiratory distress. TCM practitioners believe that allergies can be influenced by underlying patterns of imbalance, such as dampness, heat, or wind, which can affect the body’s ability to defend itself against allergens.
TCM practitioners also recognize that allergies can be linked to specific organ systems, such as the lungs, liver, or kidneys. For example, respiratory allergic reactions are often associated with an imbalance of the lung system, while allergic reactions that impact the skin with hives or rashes may be related to an imbalance of the liver system. By understanding the underlying patterns of imbalance and the specific organ systems involved, TCM practitioners can develop personalized treatment plans to address the root causes of allergies and promote lasting relief.
Treating Allergies With TCM
In western medicine, allergies are typically managed with antihistamines or corticosteroids. These treatments may relieve symptoms but are rarely suitable for long-term use. In contrast, TCM focuses on strengthening the body’s resilience and addressing the source of the issue.
TCM practitioners aim to restore harmony to the body, focusing on long-term relief so that patients don’t need to rely on antihistamines in perpetuity. This is practiced through various methods, including acupuncture and herbal medicine.
Acupuncture for Allergies
The imbalance in the body’s qi caused by allergens can lead to inflammation, congestion, and other symptoms. This is what causes you to feel ill when you’re experiencing allergies. Acupuncture works by regulating immune function, reducing inflammation, and improving respiratory health. It aims to restore balance and reduce hypersensitivity to allergens.
By modulating the immune system’s response to allergens, acupuncture can help alleviate symptoms like congestion, itching, and swelling. Studies suggest that acupuncture can be particularly helpful for allergic rhinitis, or the inflammation of the nasal passages, when people are exposed to allergens. This is often referred to as “hay fever.”
These studies show that acupuncture may be able to regulate the immune system, nervous system, and inflammatory responses that influence allergic reactions. With only a few treatments each year, patients typically see lasting results and become less reliant on daily over-the-counter medications.
Herbal Medicine for Allergies
When using TCM herbal formulas for treating and preventing allergies, it’s always best to work with an experienced practitioner. He or she can assess your symptoms, lifestyle, and constitution to determine what you need. Unlike western medicine’s one-size-fits-all approach, the formula used for treatment is dependent on a myriad of factors such as the type of allergy, your health history, and symptoms.
For instance,a patient who is experiencing itchy skin and inflammation from a grass allergy will likely be prescribed an herbal formula that can dispel heat. On the other hand, a patient dealing with respiratory symptoms will likely use a formula that addresses phlegm and dampness.
Cang Er San (Xanthium Formula) is a popular herbal formula used for allergies. It can be taken as a tea or powder mixed into hot water, making it extra soothing to anyone suffering from congestion as a result of an allergic reaction. This formula should tonify the spleen as well as dispel wind and heat.
Another popular formula for seasonal allergies is Yu Ping Feng San (Astragalus & Siler Formula). This formula can enhance the immune system, making it suitable for both prevention and symptom treatment. It may be most effective when taken as soon as the season starts so your immune system can stand up against whatever spring has to throw at you.
If you’re unsure what type of herbal formula would be best for your specific allergies (seasonal or otherwise), speak with a TCM practitioner.
TCM: Bringing Allergy Relief
Allergies can interrupt daily life, but they don’t have to. Acupuncture and herbal medicine offer natural, personalized solutions that can reduce symptoms and support long-term health. Pursue a more holistic approach with TCM.
At KPC Herbs, our mission is to help you feel your best, every season. That’s why we’re committed to offering the highest-quality herbal supplements, grounded in tradition and supported by science. Explore our catalog to find products designed with your health in mind.
*Please note: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This article is not intended to suggest specific treatments for patients or that any supplements mentioned prevent or cure diseases or problems. Before taking any herbs, all patients should discuss their options with a licensed practitioner, including any other medications the patient is currently taking, as there may be contraindications between pharmaceuticals and herbs.
