Treat your allergies naturally

If you are looking for a safe, natural approach to help you and your family members reduce allergy symptoms, toss away those expensive anti-histamines and consider visiting an experienced Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner.

Having a family pet is an extremely rewarding experience: it can teach children how to be responsible, it fosters a compassionate attitude towards all animals, and most importantly, it’s loads of fun.  However, being allergic to your dog or cat can take the enjoyment out of pet ownership, and for some sufferers, it can create serious health issues.

What is Allergic Rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis can be caused by seasonal allergies such as hay fever (allergies to rag weed and grasses) or perennial allergies (caused by dust, molds, and pets).  Allergic reactions to pets are due to their dander and saliva, not to their fur.  Even hairless breeds of dogs and cats can produce allergies.  When sufferers come into contact with an allergen, the immune system “over-reacts.”  Specialized cells then release histamine, which in turn causes the eyes to swell and the nose, ears and lungs to get “stuffy.”  For some sufferers, symptoms can be as mild as the sniffles, while others may find themselves in a full-blown asthma attack requiring emergency care.

Allergies and TCM

Acupuncture has been scientifically proven to regulate the immune system by stimulating immune cells which help reduce the symptoms of allergies.  Research also shows that acupuncture can have a broncho-dilating effect, which is ideal for easing symptoms related to laboured breathing caused by allergy-induced asthma.  In my experience, to treat allergies successfully, both acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine should be used together.  Chinese herbal medicine is very successful at relieving allergy symptoms and is an ideal alternative for parents who do not want to put their young children on medication or put them through the discomfort of allergy shots.

Treating the Root of Your Allergies

Over-the-counter drugs are a quick fix, but they do not address the underlying problem.  Experienced TCM practitioners can provide you with effective acupuncture treatments along with Chinese herbal medicine, and together they will “re-program” your body so it doesn’t overreact to allergens from the family pet.

So if you have friends who refuse your dinner invitations because of the family cat, encourage them to contact their friendly neighbourhood TCM practitioner, and get ready to set an extra place at the dinner table.

Contact Drew today and find out what you can do to minimize your allergy symptoms.