Allergies
Chinese medicine states that signs and symptoms indicating a Western diagnosis of allergies have to do with imbalances in the body’s meridian and organ systems. This may come from a variety of causes such as a poor diet, stress, environmental pollutants or toxins, or a weakness in the body’s constitution.
If imbalances stay present in the body, they will affect the functions of the organ systems. Some systems are involved in the production of Wei Qi (pronounced “way chee”). According to acupuncture and Chinese medicine theory, it is essential to have the correct quality and quantity of Wei Qi moving within the body in order to maintain optimal health.
What is Wei Qi?
Wei Qi is similar to the Western understanding of the immune system. Its function is to safeguard the body against foreign substances that can lead to allergies if not caught. We remain healthy when our Wei Qi is in abundance. When the supply weakens, health is compromised and we become susceptible to foreign invaders like dust, pollen, mold, animal dander, bacteria and viruses. People who have deficient Wei Qi are prone to frequent colds and allergies.
Acupuncture and Chinese medicine increase power in the body systems that produce Wei Qi. By strengthening your supply of Wei Qi and allowing it to flow freely and smoothly through the body, symptoms caused by allergies could be reduced or eliminated.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) establishes that allergies can be caused by a variety of factors. Below are some common TCM diagnoses that your acupuncturist may discover and treat.
Wei Qi deficiency
Kidney deficiency
Spleen weakness
Lung deficiency
How will acupuncture treat my allergies?
Your acupuncturist will take a complete health history and conduct a full exam. Then a unique treatment plan will be developed that will address your specific concerns. The goals will be to eliminate visible symptoms while addressing the root cause(s) and imbalances of Wei Qi.
Acupuncture can be augmented by dietary changes, herbs, massage (tuina) or exercise. These treatments speed the healing process in order to balance, build and encourage the body’s Wei Qi.
Seasonal tips for allergies:
Use a Neti pot to flush your nose.
Include spicy foods and omega-3’s in your diet.
Close your windows during allergy season to prevent invaders like dust and pollen from entering your home and body.
Wear a dust mask when you are doing dirty or dusty work.
Avoid drying your clothes in the sun, as they can gather dust, pollen and mold.
Come to TOTEM Acupuncture for a tune-up treatment.
Chinese medicine and acupuncture are drug-free, natural, safe, and effective ways to diminish allergies, hay fever or the common cold.