Allergies, or allergic rhinitis, are due to an over-reactivity of the immune system to certain allergens. During Spring and Summer, allergies are generally induced by wind-born tree, grass, or weed pollen, and can cause such symptoms as: sneezing; nasal congestion; runny nose; watery, itchy, or red eyes; headaches; fatigue; and sometimes coughing and wheezing.
Temecula Valley often has high pollen and mold counts. Chinese medicine can help bring relief of symptoms, correct imbalances of the immune system, prevent the occurrence of infection, and allow healing of tissues of the sinuses.
From the point of view of Chinese medicine theory, allergic rhinitis is due to a deficiency of the Lung and Kidney’s Defensive-Qi systems, combined with retention of chronic “Wind” in the nose. Basically, a weakness inside one of the body’s many systems.
Common nasal allergies often start in early childhood, with a constitutional weakness, but it may also start later in life, with a progressive decline of Kidney-Qi. Lung and Kidney Qi Deficiency is the root of the problem, therefore, with herbal medicine and acupuncture we strengthen and nourish these organs. The manifestation of the disease is Wind invading the Lung channel in the nose. This accounts for the acute attacks. With herbs and acupuncture, we clear the Wind, reduce congestion, and open the nasal passages. It is necessary to treat both the root and the manifestation in order to produce lasting results.
The Western treatment of allergic rhinitis relies mostly on the use of antihistamine agents. Unfortunately, antihistamines only treat the manifestations of the disease and not the root. In addition, they cause side-effects such as dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, nervousness, dryness, and gastro-intestinal disturbance. Many people notice immediate results, often with a single treatment. Additionally, there are some inexpensive herbal formulas that are quite effective at clearing congested noses and bring quick relief without the need for over-the-counter drugs. Come and see Mike at Temecula Valley Acupuncture for your treatment.