Achoo!

Achoo! The Spring weather is a welcome transition from the Winter cold. Blooming trees and flowers can lift our spirits but can wreak havoc on allergy symptoms. According to Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Spring is the time corresponding to the Liver organ and when the internal energies tend to lift up and outward. If there are underlying imbalances in functional systems, particularly those related to immunity and digestion, this time of year can be a challenging time to transition into.

A Chinese medical approach to treatment for springtime allergies involves a thorough health history intake and TCM diagnosis based on “reading” radial wrist pulses and the tongue. A frequently common diagnosis is “Liver Qi stagnation“ and “Lung Qi weakness” that impairs the protective barrier of our bodies to external allergen attack (i.e. immunity). In addition, there is often an underlying digestive disturbance that predisposes the production of excess mucus and phlegm that is seen with sinusitis symptoms associated with acute and chronic allergies.

A TCM treatment involves carefully selected acupoints for stimulation in order to balance the internal energy of the Liver, Lung and Spleen organs. A Chinese herbal prescription is oftentimes warranted to help curb histamine responses in the mucosal membranes of the eyes and nose. Beneficial effects are usually seen after 1 to 2 treatments and can be often long-lasting. Follow Up visits are recommended to track progress and maintain symptomatic relief.

Please inquire further if interested to pursue TCM as an adjunct to your current allergy management. Please consider scheduling an initial evaluation today!

Written by Vivian Takafuji, PhD, L.Ac., Dipl. OM

Vivian is dedicated to the practice of the holistic healing arts and draws upon Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to address health concerns and improve well-being. TCM theories are used to identify the “root” of a health condition, rather than treating only the “branches” or clinical symptoms. Her goal is to integrate complementary treatment strategies with Western medical supervision to best support the patient as a whole. She listens with a patient ear and treats with a compassionate heart. Her philosophy is that we all possess an innate healing wisdom and the patient and therapist can work as a team to bring the body-mind into balance.