Acupuncture for Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies are incredibly common and can cause a range of frustrating symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, red, itchy, and watery eyes, and more. These symptoms may flare up during any time of the year but often return predictably with the seasons. Whether you're currently experiencing a flare-up or want to prevent allergy symptoms before they begin, our skilled acupuncturists are here to help. During an active allergic episode, we assess your current presentation to develop a targeted treatment plan. This may include acupuncture, gua sha, cupping, and/or Chinese herbal medicine. If your goal is seasonal allergy prevention, we will explore your typical allergy pattern, the specific seasonal triggers, and your overall constitution to customize an effective treatment strategy.

From a Western medicine perspective, seasonal allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to typically harmless environmental substances such as pollen or mold. These allergies can either be seasonal or persistent throughout the year. Common symptoms include nasal congestion, postnasal drip, sneezing, itchy or red eyes, headaches, and even wheezing in some cases. Western treatment typically involves avoiding exposure to allergens, using nasal sprays, antihistamines, or other over-the-counter or prescription medications.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), seasonal allergy treatment is based on the individual's unique symptoms and constitutional patterns. For those experiencing primarily eye-related symptoms—like redness, itchiness, or watery eyes—acupuncture points are often selected along the Gallbladder and San Jiao meridians, both of which pass through the head, eyes, and ears. These symptoms are frequently associated with Heat patterns, which are known to flare cyclically or seasonally, particularly in the Spring. In TCM, this is described as Shao Yang Disharmony, where the Gallbladder and San Jiao meridians are out of balance. Additional symptoms of Shao Yang imbalance may include headaches, alternating hot and cold sensations, and bitter taste in the mouth. By needling points on these meridians both locally and distally, we aim to clear excess heat and restore balance to the Shao Yang system.

For individuals suffering primarily from nasal symptoms such as runny nose and postnasal drip, treatment focuses on the Lung meridian. In TCM, the Lungs govern the nose, and the Lung meridian travels through the throat, making it ideal for opening nasal passages and clearing mucus. This approach is often supported with points on the Spleen meridian, as the Lung and Spleen form the Tai Yin meridians, which work together to enhance the clearing and strengthening of the respiratory pathways.

In cases of severe nasal congestion or sinus blockages, treatment may focus on reestablishing the flow of Qi between the Large Intestine and Stomach meridians. Qi naturally cycles through the meridians in a particular order, and the transition point between the Large Intestine and Stomach occurs beside the nose. If Qi becomes blocked at this junction, sinus pressure and congestion can result. To restore this flow, acupuncturists may needle the final point on the Large Intestine meridian and the first point on the Stomach meridian, which can provide immediate relief from sinus pressure by encouraging proper Qi circulation.

These treatment strategies are tailored to your acute allergy presentation, and most patients feel symptom relief following their first acupuncture session. To enhance results, our practitioners may also use cupping, gua sha, or prescribe customized herbal formulas.

Preventative treatment is another key aspect of Chinese Medicine for seasonal allergies. If you know that your symptoms tend to emerge each Spring—perhaps with itchy eyes and a runny nose—this is valuable information that allows us to intervene before symptoms appear. A major preventative focus in TCM is strengthening the Wei Qi, or Defensive Qi, which functions as the body’s immune shield, protecting against external pathogens and allergens. By boosting Wei Qi with acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, we can minimize or even eliminate seasonal allergic responses.

The key to successful prevention is timing. It’s important to begin treatment about a month before your typical allergy season begins, allowing enough time to fortify your system. By sharing your usual symptoms and the time of year they occur, our acupuncturists can better understand your constitution—your body’s innate tendencies—and design a plan that supports both your immune function and your overall health.

Whether you're currently battling seasonal allergy symptoms or want to take proactive steps to prevent future flare-ups, acupuncture for allergies offers a natural, effective solution. Through careful intake, pulse and tongue diagnosis, and personalized treatment strategies, we work to bring immediate relief and long-term balance. Your treatment plan may include acupuncture, gua sha, cupping, and/or herbal remedies, all tailored to your body’s unique needs.