Treating seasonal allergies 4-6 weeks ahead of time will give you better results. While there may be a blanket of snow outside right now, plan ahead to enjoy the longer and warmer days of spring!
The approach of spring is coming and for some this rebirth in nature brings along the discomfort of seasonal allergies. Why are some people prone to these sensitivities?
This overreaction of the immune system is seen in Chinese Medicine as an imbalance in one or more organ systems. Typically, the organs affected are the Lungs, Spleen, Kidney, and Liver. Chinese Medicine is interconnected to the natural world and each season has a relationship to to an organ. Spring is correlated to the Liver and allergies this time of year often show that the Liver needs some attention.
Allergy symptoms can show which organ is most affected. For example, the liver is connected to the eyes in Chinese Medicine. This can be seen in itchy, red, and inflamed eyes. This differs from allergies that are more associated with the Lungs, an organ connected to the nose and throat. When there is sneezing, coughing, congestion, or a runny nose these are signs the Lung needs a boost.
In addition to using acupuncture and herbal formulas to treat allergies, here are tips for self-care:
Food therapy
Enjoy green tea, which is thought to have an anti-histamine effect. Other good additions to your diet include ginger, onions, scallions, garlic, cinnamon, leafy greens, broccoli, yams, salmon, and grapefruit seed extract. The foods listed will either support your Liver or boost your immune function.
You will also notice a difference in your allergy symptoms by limiting sugar, wheat, and dairy in your diet.
Essential Oils
Blend a few drops of lavender, lemon, and peppermint in to a diffuser or roller bottle.
Lavender is a natural antihistamine.
Lemon clears the sinuses, boosts immunity, and steadies breathing.
Peppermint helps clear mucous from the airways.
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