Healing Seasonal Allergies

Health in Harmony

Each organ system in TCM is connected to a season. For instance, the kidneys are associated with winter. Since nature appears to retreat and store its resources during this season, we support our health by focusing on rest and renewal. If we exhaust our Qi with too many late-night activities and not enough sleep during winter, our bodies can’t generate enough fuel to meet the demands of spring.

Lung Qi is responsible for the health of the respiratory system, which is related to autumn. TCM practitioners believe the lungs are responsible for creating Wei Qi (protective energy), which circulates through our bodies at skin level. Its job is to maintain a protective barrier and keep pathogens from invading the body. According to this doctrine, if lung energy is weak, we’re susceptible to allergic influences.

The spleen (seen in Western medicine as the small intestine and pancreas) is the organ system of digestion according to TCM. Damp, cold foods are believed to affect the spleen, leading to a build-up of mucus and phlegm in the respiratory tract. Eating foods that support and nurture digestion is seen as another means of preventing allergies.

Finally, TCM associates the liver with ill health, including allergies, through its relationship with stress.  Because spring is the season of the liver, its influence on allergies is even more dominant. The liver is said to oversee the smooth flow of Qi in the body. If you’re busy and stressed, the liver Qi loses its healthy rhythm and your energy doesn’t flow well.

The TCM Toolbox

Acupuncture can help control the body’s inflammatory reaction to allergens. The benefits are cumulative and sustained results are seen with regular visits. It’s common to see relief from nasal and sinus congestion moments after the needles are inserted.

Chinese herbal medicine is often used as a cornerstone approach for treating seasonal allergies. Some herbs are used to eliminate pathogens while others are thought to dry internal dampness, reduce phlegm or strengthen the Qi. Herbs are chosen to support a single constitutional weakness and treat overall symptoms. Ask your acupuncturist to recommend a formula that’s right for your individual pattern.

Your diet should consist of whole foods. Limit processed or junk foods. Avoid cold foods that weaken spleen Qi. These include frozen foods and cold drinks. Dairy products cause dampness, which TCM believes can lead to mucus in the lungs and respiratory track. When excessive mucus accumulates in the system, allergens can become more severe. Mildly sweet foods, such as grains, squashes and most fruit, are considered strengthening to the spleen Qi. Concentrated and refined sugars are thought to cause weakness and can lead to internal dampness.

Certain fruits, such as citrus, bananas and melons, are said to cause dampness and should be avoided during allergy season. On the other hand, cooking with aromatic warming spices, such as ginger, cinnamon, cumin and small amounts of cayenne pepper, warm the body, promote circulation and the discharge of mucus and phlegm. Specific healing foods, such as pears, are believed to strengthen the lungs, especially during autumn.

Lifestyle practices, such as exercise, stress reduction and restorative sleep, are healing pillars that support TCM-treatment outcomes.