Acupuncture for Allergies

While the spring brings with it warmer weather and a sense of rebirth, for many, it also brings on the dreaded seasonal allergies. As a result, millions of dollars are spent every year on allergy medications and shots, which often provide only mild relief.

Allergies are caused by an over-reactivity of the immune system to certain allergens such as wind-born tree, grass, or weed pollen. Sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, headaches, fatigue, coughing, wheezing and watery, itchy, or red eyes are common symptoms. In addition, when allergens and antibodies react nasal mucosa becomes swollen and may obstruct drainage from the sinuses causing sinusitis in many people.

Western doctors may prescribe antihistamines. Unfortunately, these remedies only treat the manifestation of the condition. Not only that, but many of these medications cause side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, nervousness, dryness, and gastro-intestinal issues.

From a Chinese medicine point of view, allergies are due to an imbalance in the immune system, namely, a deficiency of the body’s Defensive-Qi, combined with the presence of chronic "Wind" or external pathogen in the nose and eyes. A practitioner will use herbs and acupuncture to clear the Wind, reduce congestion, open the nasal passages, relieve itchiness and clear the eyes. This is treatment of the manifestation of the condition. But Chinese medicine does not stop there. The real strength of the medicine is its ability to address the underlying root of the condition, namely, the weakness in the immune system in the face of such overpowering external stressors: the allergens. Together, both the root and the manifestation of the condition are treated to produce lasting results. Receiving acupuncture treatments during the season in which you suffer from allergies can diminish your symptoms and shorten the duration of or eliminate altogether the allergy season. There is also a special classical Chinese medicine treatment administered at the height of the summer heat to help strengthen the lungs and immune system. This treatment addresses longterm asthma, seasonal allergies, and chronic colds. Please be sure to schedule appointments in mid July to early August to catch this short window of time!

Spring Salad

Spring has officially begun!

As the season of renewal of energy, spring is also the time of year when we “clean out” the heavy, dampening foods of winter in favor of lighter, fresh fare. A diet rich in yang-type foods that echo the expansive energy of springtime are recommended, such as vegetables like kale, collard greens, corn, asparagus and celery. Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and cranberries also help cleanse the liver. Consuming a moderate amount of raw foods can also stimulate liver qi flow. And remember, consuming organic and local ingredients taste better and is better for you! Why not throw together a festive spring salad?

Ingredients:

3 cups Salad Greens
½ cup chopped Celery
1 cup sliced Strawberries
Walnut Oil and Red Wine Vinegar for dressing
Salt and Pepper as needed

Directions:

Make sure greens, celery, and strawberries are all properly washed.
Place ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Mix 1-2 parts oil to 1 part vinegar.
Toss salad with oil and vinegar mixture.

Get ready for Spring

Friday, March 20th brings the Spring Equinox, and we begin a new season.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, each season is associated with one of the five principle elements in the natural world: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Spring is paired with the wood element.

Wood exemplifies growth, change, and pushing through obstacles. Its active energy allows for much growth, both internally and externally. We may find that we are able to make great progress on projects and endeavors that may have been hard to get moving on during the hibernating winter months. Take it slow, however, as this energy can easily funnel into stress, frustration or anger when we run into obstacles. Because we are able to feel our renewed energy so profoundly in contrast to our slower winter pace, these blockages may seem all the more apparent.

The body system associated with wood is the Liver. The Liver is in charge of maintaining a smooth flow of mental, emotional and physical energy throughout the body. Thus, it aids all the other body systems in functioning properly. The Liver also plays a key role in the functioning of the reproductive system. For this reason, the spring is an optimal time to focus on reproductive health.

Keep in mind, though, a seed does not blossom into a flower overnight. The bud has to push up through the thawing soil first. Spring is a wonderful time to work with our blockages, as there is greater access to that can-do energy.

Spring Ahead!

Daylights Saving Time begins this Sunday, March 8, so be sure to set your clock ahead an hour!

While it is great that we are one step closer to spring, it often takes time for us to adjust to the change. Many people struggle to maintain a healthy sleeping pattern as it is, and it can be difficult to get used to waking up an hour “earlier.” Many complain of sleep disruption, headaches, and grouchiness in the weeks following the switch.

However, the benefits to “springing ahead” greatly outweigh the disadvantages. As the daylight lasts longer, people are able to be more productive during the day. Additional light and warmer weather encourages people to spend time outdoors—a proven stress reliever. People just need to pay attention to their sleep habits a little more closely during this time.

There are several ways in which people can help their bodies adjust.

*Exercise: Even a brisk walk will help release serotonin into your bloodstream, making it easier for your inner clock to get used to the time change.

*Bright light exposure: Sitting in front of a bright fluorescent light (like a light box) for one to two hours a day can be incredibly helpful, as they are brighter than typical household lights.

*Be aware of your limitations during the first few weeks of daylight saving. Listen to your body, and make changes you need to make.

*See your acupuncturist for treatments to help regulate your sleep cycle, if need be.