As Seattle has emerged from the snow and is finally beginning to warm up, the first harbingers of spring are upon us and trees are starting to bloom. In Chinese five element theory, spring is associated with the color green, the element wood, and represents growth and movement. This is an energizing time of year yet to those of us with seasonal allergies, this change of seasons brings with it some unpleasant symptoms. From itchy eyes to runny nose, sneezing, coughing, and overall just feeling run down, many people turn to over the counter allergy medicine to help with their symptoms. Some of these medications come with unwanted side effects such as increased drowsiness, dry mouth and throat, and they are chemically synthesized, not made from substances found in nature.
For those who are looking for a natural alternative to help with their seasonal allergies, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are very effective! Each patient is diagnosed and treated with a custom treatment plan, ensuring that everything is tailored to them to maximize results. Acupuncture can provide good relief from allergy symptoms and it is most effective to start treatments before the beginning of the season. Chinese herbal medicine can help support the patient constitutionally and extend the results of each acupuncture treatment to minimize symptoms in between visits. All of the herbs used are natural substances and are gentler on the body than pharmaceutical medications. Chinese herbs also do not have pronounced side effects that often come with pharmaceutical drugs.
Acupuncture works with the body’s own immune response to help fight both illness and seasonal allergies, so the time taken to achieve desired results will vary for each patient. Many patients feel an improvement in their symptoms after the first visit. We will recommend a treatment plan for each patient to help support them during allergy season including acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and nutrition recommendations. If you are someone who suffers from seasonal allergies and are dreading the arrival of spring, contact Balanced Elements Acupuncture and make an appointment for acupuncture before the onset of the season. Allergies can start being treated preemptively so that the body is more prepared and symptoms are less severe. Enjoy spring as nature intended, a time for growth, prosperity, and movement. Don’t let your allergies slow you down this year!
Tips for Allergy Season: Stay extra hydrated by increasing water intake. See your acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist to customize an herbal formula for you!