There are currently about 50 million Americans who suffer from allergies. Most of these people take antihistamines, decongestants, shots and nasal sprays just to make life more bearable. Some even resort to taking antibiotics for what they believe are sinus infections. Then there are some who no longer need allergy medicines due to a combination of acupuncture and dietary changes. This does not surprise most acupuncturists. They have witnessed many allergy patients who have benefited from the therapy that has been part of Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Acupuncture is the original mind-body-spirit medicine.
The belief that life energy or qi (pronounced chee), flows through the body along 12 meridians is the basis of acupuncture. Acupuncturists believe that energy and blood can be forced to flow to areas where it is lacking and away from where it is too plentiful by stimulating spots on these meridians. Acupuncturists say that some people respond immediately, while others may take days or even weeks.
Most doctors don’t know a lot about acupuncture and it is difficult to prove its effectiveness. It does not lend itself easily to standard Western research.
Even without acupuncture, there are things that can be done to help with allergy symptoms. Obviously, one should limit their exposure to allergens. A dehumidifier can help reduce mold. Keep windows closed, stay indoors during peak pollen hours, change clothes after being outdoors, wear a mask when mowing and use a filter for your air conditioner.
To clear nasal passages, try a mixture of one teaspoon of non-iodized salt with 8 ounces of warm water. Then use a bulb syringe or a neti pot to pour from one nostril to another.
Herbal supplements such as stinging nettles, butterbur and quercetin have also been suggested to be helpful with allergies.