Hay fever: A Chinese medicine perspective

Find out what acupuncture and herbal medicine can do to assist in natural hay fever relief

Find natural relief for hay fever symptoms with acupuncture and Chinese medicine. Learn how acupuncture helps reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and alleviate common hay fever symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes. Discover holistic solutions for managing seasonal allergies and improving overall well-being.

Person with red hair sneezing into a tissue outdoors

Acupuncture for Hayfever

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common condition. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, approximately 23.9% of Australians reported experiencing hay fever in 2022 Australian Bureau of Statistics. It is triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites, or animal dander, causing an exaggerated immune response. While not life-threatening, hay fever can significantly impact quality of life, leading to discomfort and fatigue.

Hay Fever Symptoms:

  • Sneezing

  • Runny or blocked nose

  • Itchy eyes, nose, throat, or ears

  • Watery, red eyes

  • Sinus pressure or headaches

  • Fatigue and difficulty concentrating

What Causes Hay Fever?

Hay fever is caused by an overactive immune system responding to harmless substances like pollen as if they were threats. This releases histamines, which cause inflammation and irritation of the nasal passages, eyes, and throat.

What Will I Use to Treat Hay Fever?

As a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, I use a combination of therapies tailored to each individual’s presentation and constitution:

  • Acupuncture: Helps regulate the immune system, clear nasal passages, and reduce inflammation.

  • Electro-Acupuncture: Enhances the effects of acupuncture, providing quicker symptom relief in some cases.

  • Herbal Medicine: Custom herbal formulas address underlying imbalances like Qi deficiency, dampness, or heat.

Hay Fever Acupuncture Research supports acupuncture’s usefulness in treating hay fever. A 2018 study published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine found that participants receiving acupuncture reported significant improvements in their symptoms and quality of life compared to those receiving antihistamines alone (Brinkhaus B, Ortiz M, Witt CM, et al. Acupuncture in Patients with Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis: A Randomized Trial. Ann Intern Med. 2013;158(4):225-234). Other studies highlight acupuncture’s ability to reduce the need for medication and improve long-term outcomes by addressing the root causes of allergic rhinitis.

If you’re struggling with hay fever and looking for a holistic, effective approach, Traditional Chinese Medicine offers time-tested treatments that can provide both symptom relief and long-term balance.