by Doris Romero, DOM

45% of New Mexicans suffer from seasonal allergies and year-round allergies. A natural alternative to drugs or injections to alleviate allergies is Chinese medicine which can include acupuncture, herbs and dietary changes.

An important concept in Chinese medicine is qi (pronounced “chee”), energy that resides in channels and the organs in the body. A healthy person’s qi moves freely and regulates their physiological functions like the immune, respiratory or digestive systems and their mental and emotional functions as well.

According to Chinese medicine the reason for illness is an imbalance in the body. It is the task of the Doctor of Oriental Medicine (DOM) to figure out what the imbalance is and help the body correct it. In the case of allergies, imbalances often occur at the organ level. For example, the lungs are responsible for providing the body with a protective layer of energy. If this energy is weak, then the body will be vulnerable to allergies in the spring and fall when the weather is more windy. If the stomach and intestines are weak, maybe due to an improper diet, they will produce mucus that causes nasal congestion.

An imbalance which causes allergies can also occur at the emotional level. Emotions, whether current stress, long-standing emotions (like frustration), or emotional trauma from the past, can cause the energy to stagnate and block the normal physiology of organs. Emotions can be neutralized and normal physiology of the organs can be restored with acupuncture.

Acupuncture works best for seasonal allergies when the imbalance is addressed prior to the beginning of the season. But if you are already suffering from allergies or you get them year-round, acupuncture can still address your imbalance. The number of treatments needed vary according to the severity of the imbalance, but people usually experience relief after the first treatment.TA