Understanding Spring Allergies: Common and Uncommon Symptoms
Springtime in the DMV (District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia) is beautiful, but for many residents, it also marks the return of seasonal allergies. With pollen counts expected to reach historic highs across 39 states this year, managing allergies will be more important than ever.
Common allergy symptoms include:
✅ Sneezing
✅ Runny or congested nose
✅ Itchy or watery eyes
✅ Coughing
✅ Sore throat
Less commonly, allergies can also cause:
⚡ Headaches
⚡ Fatigue
⚡ Difficulty sleeping
⚡ Wheezing or shortness of breath
⚡ Skin rashes
Left untreated, allergies can lead to sinus infections, worsened asthma symptoms, and general exhaustion.
Why This Allergy Season Will Be Worse Than Ever
According to recent reports, the U.S. is facing one of the most intense allergy seasons in history. Warmer temperatures and increased carbon dioxide levels are fueling excessive pollen production, making allergies more severe and long-lasting this spring. (Read more here).
If you usually struggle with allergies, now is the time to take proactive measures!
How Acupuncture Can Help with Seasonal Allergies
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach to allergy relief, with acupuncture being one of the most effective tools.
Acupuncture helps by:🔹 Regulating the immune system🔹 Reducing inflammation🔹 Relieving sinus congestion & pressure🔹 Calming overactive histamine responses
Research suggests that acupuncture can function like an antihistamine, reducing allergy symptoms naturally without the drowsiness or side effects of medications. Many of my patients report fewer seasonal allergies after regular acupuncture treatments, especially when they start sessions before peak pollen season!
TCM Herbs & Supplements for Allergy Relief
In addition to acupuncture, certain Chinese herbs and supplements can help manage allergy symptoms at home. Some of the most well-recognized and accessible ones in the U.S. include:
🌿 1. Astragalus (Huang Qi, 黄芪)
✔️ Strengthens immunity & prevents allergy flare-ups✔️ Best taken before allergy season starts✔️ Found in capsules, tinctures, and teas
🌿 2. Stinging Nettle (Not traditionally TCM, but widely used)
✔️ Acts as a natural antihistamine✔️ Reduces sneezing, itching, and congestion✔️ Available in capsules, freeze-dried powder, or teas
🌿 3. Butterbur (Feverfew in TCM context)
✔️ Blocks histamine production & reduces inflammation✔️ Helps with sinus headaches and nasal congestion✔️ Found in capsules—look for “PA-free” versions
🌿 4. Magnolia Flower (Xin Yi Hua, 辛夷花)
✔️ Opens nasal passages & relieves pressure✔️ Often included in Bi Yan Pian (鼻炎片), a formula for sinus congestion
🌿 5. Schisandra Berry (Wu Wei Zi, 五味子)
✔️ Regulates stress-related allergy flare-ups✔️ Supports lung function & reduces inflammation✔️ Available in tea, tincture, or capsule form
🌿 6. Angelica Root (Bai Zhi, 白芷)
✔️ Treats sinus congestion & headaches✔️ Often included in herbal blends for respiratory health
🌿 7. Local Bee Pollen (Holistic remedy, not TCM)
✔️ May help build immunity to local allergens✔️ Start with a small dose & gradually increase
💊 Popular TCM Allergy Formulas
✔️ Bi Yan Pian (鼻炎片): Sinus congestion, runny nose, sneezing
✔️ Yu Ping Feng San (玉屏风散): Strengthens immunity, prevents allergies
✔️ Xiao Feng San (消风散): Helps with skin allergies like eczema & hives
Dietary Therapy for Allergies: Eat for Clearer Sinuses!
In TCM, what you eat plays a huge role in how your body responds to seasonal changes. During allergy season, the goal is to reduce phlegm production, strengthen digestion, and support lung function. Here are some TCM dietary recommendations to help your body fight allergies:
✅ Best Foods for Allergy Prevention
🥬 Leafy Greens (Dandelion, spinach, bok choy) – Helps clear heat & reduce inflammation🍋 Citrus Fruits (Lemons, oranges, grapefruit) – Supports the immune system & clears mucus🌿 Ginger & Turmeric – Anti-inflammatory, helps open nasal passages🐟 Omega-3 Rich Foods (Salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts) – Reduces allergic inflammation🍵 Green & Chrysanthemum Tea – Clears heat and soothes irritated sinuses🍠 Sweet Potatoes & Squash – Supports digestion & balances energy
❌ Foods to Avoid (Mucus-Producing & Inflammatory)
🚫 Dairy (Milk, cheese, yogurt) – Can increase phlegm & congestion🚫 Refined Sugar – Weakens the immune system & increases inflammation🚫 Processed Foods – Often contain preservatives that can worsen allergies🚫 Cold & Raw Foods (Ice cream, smoothies) – Weakens digestion & leads to more mucus
Other TCM Recommendations for Home Allergy Care
🌬 Monitor Pollen Levels – Check daily forecasts and stay indoors on high-pollen days.
🏠 Create a Safe Indoor Space – Use HEPA air filters and keep windows closed.
🍵 Drink Herbal Teas – Chrysanthemum, peppermint, and ginger teas help clear sinuses and soothe inflammation.
💨 Practice Breathing Exercises – Techniques like Qi Gong can improve lung function and reduce allergy sensitivity.
🌞 Start Acupuncture Early – The best time to start treatment is before peak allergy season.
Take Control of Your Spring Allergies
This allergy season is expected to be one of the worst in years, but with the right strategies—like acupuncture, herbal support, and dietary therapy—you can stay ahead of symptoms. If you’re looking for a natural, holistic way to manage allergies, acupuncture and TCM might be the relief you’ve been searching for!
Book an appointment today and let’s get you breathing easier this spring! 🌿✨