Treating Allergies with Herbs and Acupuncture
Gently start massaging these points S-l-o-w-l-y in a clockwise motion. As you get used to the light pressure, start going deeper, which will allow these main areas to release. Observe the power of these points about 15 minutes after you have massaged them.
The acupuncturist also looks for constitutional or more deeply rooted signs in each person who presents with allergic symptoms. The principle here is treating the whole person. Often people with chronic allergies show signs of Spleen or Kidney Deficiency as well as Lung signs according to TCM.
Herbal Remedies
Herbs that are beneficial for allergies (if you are not allergic to them) are Burdock Root, Dandelion, and Echinacea. These herbs help to purify the blood, boost the immune system, and improves organ function. Bee Pollen can strengthen the immune system. Start with a few drops at a time and work up to a dropper 2-3 times a day. Coenzyme Q10 improves oxygenation and immunity. 30 mg, twice daily. In traditional medicine, some herbs whose pollen can cause symptoms of hay fever have been used as a way to reduce symptoms of hay fever, which is the homeopathic theory of “like cures like.” The most important of these are Goldenrod and Ragweed (Ambrosia ambrosioides). Eyebright and Elder also have a reputation for use as hay fever remedies. However, an individual allergic to one of these plants should avoid them unless under the care of a doctor of natural medicine.
Bee Pollen – has been used to build up the immune system to fight colds and to counteract depression. Bee pollen has also been used internally to increase antiallergenic properties to enhance the immune system against allergies to pollen.
Burdock Root – Burdock root contains high amounts of inulin and mucilage. This may explain its soothing effects on the gastrointestinal tract. Bitter constituents in the root may also explain the traditional use of burdock to improve digestion. It also contains polyacetylenes that have been shown to have antimicrobial activity.
Dandelion – Dandelion is a natural diuretic that increases urine production by promoting the excretion of salts and water from the kidney. Dandelion may be used for a wide range of conditions requiring mild diuretic treatment such as poor digestion, liver disorders, and high blood pressure.
Echinacea – Echinacea is another herb useful for the relief of allergy symptoms. With a rich history of use in Native American traditions, echinacea possesses natural anti-inflammatory properties. Echinacea also helps relieve the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections and is useful for sore throats and even acne.
Green drinks – green drinks are filled with antioxidants and other nutrients, which help to detox the body. Detoxification can calm allergy symptoms by helping to flush out toxic build up in the system. Made from spirulina, wheat, and barley grasses, these drinks are one of the best allergy medicines.
Nettle Leaf – Nettle leaf can help in the reduction in symptoms of hay fever, including sneezing and itchy eyes. For help with hay fever symptoms, consider taking 450 mg of Nettle Leaf capsules or tablets two to three times per day, or a 2?4 ml tincture, three times per day. Do not take this herb if you have high blood pressure.
Horseradish – The “heating” qualities of horseradish are a clue to its most popular therapeutic use: clearing up nasal and chest congestion. As well as helping to clear the respiratory passages and eliminate excess mucus, this herb is effective for the relief of cough symptoms and sinusitis.
Garlic – One of the oldest recorded culinary spices, garlic (Allium sativum) is mentioned as a food in the Bible and is known to have been part of the diet of Egyptian workers as long ago as 2600 BC. It is the dominant flavor in much of Mediterranean cuisine but is also a more subtle addition to many Asian dishes. But alongside its popularity in food, garlic has a long history of medicinal use ? a traditional history that has gained increasing recognition from science. Garlic preparations have long been used to relieve the congestion of colds and hay fever.
Reishi Mushrooms, Ganoderma lucidum, (Ling Zhi) is documented to have great medicinal value. The reishi extract is effective in clearing up a large variety of allergic skin conditions either due to food or airborne allergens. Ganoderma extract is useful in detoxifying the kidneys and improving its overall function.
Visit Your TCM practitioner for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Connect with Andrew Pacholyk MS L.Ac at peacefulmind.com “Living Life, Consciously” Alternative medicine and therapies for healing mind, body & spirit!
