Sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and scratchy throat are back with the pollens. In Switzerland, approximately 20% of the population suffers from pollen allergies. Among the most common are seasonal allergies, such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever), caused mainly by grass, birch and hazel pollen.
The pollen calendar varies depending on weather conditions, but in general the pollen season begins in the spring and ends in the fall. Here are the flowering periods of the main allergens:
Hazel: January to March
Birch: April to May
Grasses: May to September
Ambrosia: August to October
Drive out the wind and eliminate the cold
These climate terms aren't about the weather! In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), they are used to describe allergy symptoms. Symptoms of the wind refer to an energetic imbalance in the body that manifests suddenly, with rapid progression and an invisible nature. These symptoms may also include itching and sneezing. In the case of cold, nasal mucus is abundant, clear, and watery. Thus, the therapeutic concept of TCM involves dispelling the wind and eliminating the cold. This regulates the defense system of the lungs and airways, preventing excessive reactions.
To achieve this, immunoregulatory acupuncture points are stimulated primarily on the head, limbs, and ears using fine needles.
This technique proves to be an effective and side-effect-free alternative to antihistamines and desensitization. More than half of people suffering from hay fever respond well to this treatment. Symptoms are alleviated, and the quality of life is significantly improved.
Acupuncture points for alleviating allergy symptoms: a practical guide
Acupuncture points commonly used to relieve allergy symptoms are:
Large Intestine 20 (LI20): Located on either side of the nose, near the nostrils.
Large Intestine 4 (LI4): Located between the thumb and index finger, in the muscle found between the two fingers.
Triple Warmer 5 (TW5): Located about three finger widths above the wrist, between the two forearm bones.
Lung 7 (LU7): Located above the wrist, near the base of the thumb.
Liver 3 (LR3): Located on the top of the foot, between the first and second toes, where the bones meet.
Bladder 2 (BL2): Located at the base of the head, at the level of the eyebrows, near the inner corner of each eye.
Governing Vessel 20 (GV20): Located at the top of the skull, halfway between the ears.
Spleen 6 (SP6): Located about four finger widths above the ankle, on the inside of the leg.
It is important to consult a qualified acupuncturist for tailored and personalized treatment.
Treating symptoms and prevention
During the hay fever season, symptomatic treatment is carried out twice a week. Relief can be expected after just a few sessions. In cases of severe symptoms, acupuncture is combined with herbal medications. Preventive treatment consists of 6 to 8 sessions and begins two months before the start of hay fever season. This treatment is repeated over three years. The goal is to permanently reorient the immune system so that no allergic reactions to pollen occur.
Acupuncture and allergies in Switzerland
In summary, acupuncture proves to be an interesting and effective alternative for the treatment of allergies, particularly in our Swiss latitudes, where the prevalence of seasonal allergies is high. Thanks to its holistic approach and the absence of undesirable side effects, acupuncture can provide lasting relief and improve the quality of life for people suffering from allergies. To ensure the quality and safety of treatment, however, it is essential to consult an experienced and certified acupuncturist from a recognized organization, such as the Swiss Foundation for Complementary Medicine (ASCA) or the Register of Empirical Medicine (RME).
In addition to acupuncture, a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, and stress management can also contribute to strengthening the immune system and reducing sensitivity to allergies.
Sources :
Swiss Allergy Centre - Statistiques sur les allergies en Suisse : https://www.aha.ch/centre-dallergie/suisse/statistiques-sur-les-allergies/
OFSP - Les allergies en Suisse : https://www.bag.admin.ch/bag/fr/home/krankheiten/krankheiten-im-ueberblick/allergien.html
Association Suisse des Médecins Acupuncteurs (ASMA) : https://www.sdam.ch/
Maciocia, G. (2015). The Foundations of Chinese Medicine: A Comprehensive Text. Elsevier Health Sciences.
Feng, S., Han, M., Fan, Y., Yang, G., Liao, Z., Liao, W., & Li, H. (2015). Acupuncture for the treatment of allergic rhinitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy, 29(1), 57-62.
Brinkhaus, B., Ortiz, M., Witt, C. M., Roll, S., Linde, K., Pfab, F., ... & Melchart, D. (2013). Acupuncture in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis: a randomized trial. Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, 110(2), 101-108.
Suisse Acupuncture - Prévenir les allergies saisonnières grâce à l'acupuncture : https://www.suisseacupuncture.ch/prevenir-les-allergies-saisonnieres-grace-a-lacupuncture/
Société Médicale Suisse de Médecine Chinoise et Acupuncture (SMS-MCA) : https://www.sgms-sdam.ch/