Americans spend billions every year on over-the-counter and prescription drugs to control the symptoms of allergies, yet still any relief seems to be short-lived. Harvard Medical School reports that 40-50 million Americans suffer from some type of allergy, including food sensitivities. The American Academy of Allergy and Immunology puts the figure even higher at around 60 million. That means that there are more Americans suffering from allergies than from diabetes and high cholesterol combined. Even the lowest figures indicate that allergic disease is now at epidemic proportions. A better way to treat allergy sufferers is with an alternative that will not only offer symptomatic relief without unwanted side effects, but at the same time address the root cause of the disease. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine provide a holistic solution tailored to an individual's unique picture of health, while striving to improve overall health and well-being.
So how do allergies develop in the body anyhow? The mechanism is a hyper-reaction of the immune system where the body perceives something very normal or even good as a threat. In response to this perceived danger, the immune response elicits a release of IgE antibodies which attach onto white blood cells called mast cells. Mast cells are mainly located in the lungs and upper respiratory tract, in the stomach lining and the skin. When these cells are stimulated, they trigger a release of chemicals, i.e., histamines, etc. that causes the physiological response that most allergy sufferers know well: itchy, watery eyes, runny nose, wheezing and skin conditions.
Although what causes this hyperactivity of the immune system is unknown, we do know that allergic disease is almost entirely confined to wealthy, developed nations. Due to this fact, many speculate that it is the result of diets low in immune-boosting vitamins, too much antibiotic use, climate changes, increased pollution, and of course the many other stressors of the modern day lifestyle on our nervous systems. In this frequent state of stress from emotional, physical, environmental, etc. sources, our resistance is lowered and our ability to adapt to stress becomes compromised. This affects our ability to fight disease, repair and restore damaged tissue, and maintain balance and synergy within the body's system.
Acupuncture can help by regulating the central nervous system and shifting us into what is called homeostasis. This is a state of balance where the body is in an optimal position to regenerate, repair, defend, and protect. When we are under stress our body moves out of homeostasis, and we react with heightened sensitivity due to the body's perception of danger, real or not. Acupuncture focuses on regulating and retraining the immune system to cope with stressors in a healthier way. It works to desensitize that heightened response. In addition to stimulating the immune function, acupuncture points are extremely helpful at reducing local inflammation and improving circulation to relieve congestion in the ears, head, and sinuses. Chinese herbal medicines are also helpful in conjunction with acupuncture to achieve these goals.
Here are some helpful tips to help strengthen your immune system this allergy season:
1. Eat a diet rich in antioxidants, especially vitamins C and E, and if you can't get enough fresh fruits and veggies in daily meals, choose a fruit and vegetable powder based antioxidant supplement.
2. Strengthen your immune system with a probiotic. Much of our immune system is housed in the gut and by restoring and promoting the growth of our healthly intestinal flora, we are better adapt to fight unwanted invaders.
3. Be sure to have adequate amounts of omega 3 fish oil daily due to it's anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Use a Neti Pot. The Mayo Clinic endorses the simple tool to flush the sinuses and reduce the presence of allergens, such as pet dander, dust mites and pollen. This in turn preserves the health and immune strength of the nasal mucosa which is our first line of defense.
-Jessica Ellerman, L.Ac. (Towson)
