Eastern Medicine and Allergies

By Aifei Wang, LAc, MAc

NABACU Eastern Medicine Centers

. http://www.nabacu.com/

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Eastern Medicine and Allergies

Allergies are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to allergens such as pollen, dust, pet hair or certain foods. Over 50 million Americans suffer from allergies and asthma. Allergens trigger IgE antibodies, which attach to white blood cells called mast cells. These cells then release histamines and other inflammatory chemicals that cause sneezing and itching.

The Western treatment is to inhibit the allergic response using antihistamines or corticoid/steroids. Side effects often include drowsiness, a suppressed immune system and over-reliance on pills.

Our approach is to treat the underlying immune system problem. In Eastern medicine vocabulary, allergies result from Wei Qi deficiency, which is a type of immune system weakness resulting from imbalance among the lung, spleen and kidney organ systems. We use acupuncture at points on the body that connect to these organ systems in order to strengthen your immunity. Herbal supplements such as the Jade Screen formula may also be used, along with dietary recommendations.

Medical Research

Multiple randomized clinical trials have found acupuncture to be highly effective for allergy symptoms. In one study published in The European Journal of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, patients treated with acupuncture for severe hay fever symptoms showed an 85% improvement rate vs. 40% in the control group. Another study published in the The Journal of Chinese Medicine found an 80% improvement rate among those receiving acupuncture.

Case Study

Jane, age 50, had a severe history of lifelong allergies. She constantly suffered from itchy eyes, a runny nose and sneezing. Jane used three different allergy medications and during allergy season, she was completely unable to go outdoors.

She was diagnosed with a weakness in Wei Qi, or defensive energy, the Eastern medicine parallel to the immune system. First, her symptoms were treated using acupuncture to stop her eyes from itching and her nose from running. After a month of three treatments per week, her acute symptoms subsided.

Then her underlying problem was treated, which as an imbalance between the lung and spleen organ systems. After a couple of months, she was able to discontinue her medication entirely. Five years later, she continues to have no allergy problems.