Treating Allergies with Acupuncture

Filed in archive Allergy: Diagnostics and Treatment on June 23, 2006

I know a lot of people who swears by the healing powers of alternative medicine. One such example said to be very effective in alleviating symptoms, not only of allergies, but of a lot other disorders ia acupuncture.

The term acupuncture describes a family of procedures involving stimulation of anatomical points on the body by a variety of techniques. American practices of acupuncture incorporate medical traditions from China, Japan, Korea, and other countries. The acupuncture technique that has been most studied scientifically involves penetrating the skin with thin, solid, metallic needles that are manipulated by the hands or by electrical stimulation.

How it exactly works to alleviate allergy symptoms is not yet clear, but it is suggested by altering the secretion of neurotransmitters and neurohormones, and the regulation of blood flow, acupuncture boosts the body's natural antihistamine production.

The needles used in acupuncture for allergies are almost like switches in the energy circuits of the body. Imagine the body as the computer and the energy system as the software program. In other words, the body can be "re-programmed" so it does not react to pollen or dog dander or peanuts as if they were harmful substances.

Some patients attest to its effectivity, but I have no personal experience with it. I've had acupunture before, but for a different purpose. No, don't worry, if done properly, it doesn't hurt. One thing though: If you're considering trying it, check if your health insurance covers it. Mine partially does.