By Dr. Mary Lambert, AP, DOM
If you are among the roughly 25 million Americans affected by asthma, you know very well how difficult this disorder can be. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and constriction of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing. Symptoms like wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Triggers can vary from person to person and may include allergens, exercise, cold air, and respiratory infections. While some may confuse asthma with allergies, they are quite different. Allergies are immune system reactions to normally harmless substances including pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain foods, and medications. When someone with allergies encounters these allergens, their immune system overacts, leading to symptoms like sneezing, itching, and difficulty breathing. People with asthma might have life-threatening reactions to these allergens.
Conventional asthma medications may not completely manage symptoms, and potential side effects are also a concern. This is where acupuncture and herbal prescriptions are available to help manage symptoms. Acupuncture has shown promise in alleviating allergy symptoms by regulating the immune system and reducing inflammation. By inserting fine hairlike needles into specific points on the body, acupuncture stimulates the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals and neurotransmitters, which can help mitigate the body’s allergic response. Additionally, acupuncture may promote better circulation and balance energy flow (Qi) throughout the body, which can help address underlying imbalances contributing to allergic reactions. Some studies have suggested that acupuncture may reduce the severity and frequency of allergy symptoms, providing relief to individuals suffering from allergies. In a meta-analysis published in 2019, Jiang et al concluded that acupuncture with conventional therapies showed significant benefits for asthma symptoms in adults and children.
Acupuncture is known to help minimize inflammatory responses in patients who receive treatment. Because asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition, and acupuncture reduces inflammation, this therapy is a great way to treat some of the symptoms. Acupuncture also regulates the immune system, which can help reduce the chances of getting seasonal allergies, or at least make the symptoms milder.
While some individuals may experience noticeable improvements in their asthma or allergy symptoms in just a few acupuncture treatments, others may take several sessions to see or feel a difference. Recent research conducted in 2020 indicates that undergoing one acupuncture session per week over 6 weeks often yielded positive outcomes across numerous studies, with the majority of these studies utilizing no more than 15 treatments.
Acupuncture alone will help minimize symptoms of allergies and asthma, but the addition of prescribed Chinese herbs to your routine could become a game changer. Many Chinese herbal formulas have had multiple studies on their efficacy in treating symptoms of asthma and allergies and the results were amazing. In the clinical analysis published in 2022, Liu et al found that Yu-Pingfeng San regulates the inflammatory response to alleviate the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Additionally, a study published in 2021 by Jason Metal, shows that Ding Chuan Tang improves lung function, reducing airway hyper-responsiveness.
Combining traditional herbal medicine with acupuncture provides comprehensive allergy and asthma relief. Traditional Chinese herbs address underlying imbalances and respiratory symptoms while helping to regulate the immune response, reducing inflammation and allergic reactions. When used in conjunction with acupuncture, the effects further enhance immune function, and improve circulation and energy flow, further supporting the body’s natural healing process. Together, these modalities offer synergistic benefits for allergy management.
Individuals considering acupuncture for allergy relief and other health concerns should consult a licensed acupuncturist. A licensed acupuncturist possesses the necessary training, expertise, and experience to provide safe and effective treatments tailored to the individual’s needs. In addition, a licensed acupuncturist will assess symptoms, health status, and treatment goals to create a personalized plan and regimen for those health concerns. Proper dosing, monitoring, and potential interactions with other medications will be considered to ensure safe and effective treatment. Don’t wait and suffer with allergy or asthma symptoms for longer than you need to. Contact our office now to book your consultation.
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