Chinese Herbal Medicine for Spring Allergy Symptoms
As spring arises, the moment nature opens its wings, even the least to experience an allergic response can feel it in one way or another. Pollen becomes so abundant the human sinus, olfactory, and respiratory systems can be covered in the compounds causing an anti-histamine reaction that results in watery eyes, runny nose, scratchy throat, clogged ears, and sometimes breathing compromise. The usual pharmaceuticals, either over-the-counter (OTC) or prescribed, could immediately quell symptoms but the side effects may cause concern. Plus, the root cause is never addressed leaving those suffering reliant on daily, sometimes even lifelong, medicine.
According to Weiyi Ding, MD, MS, RN, LAc, a clinical supervisor at Bastyr Center for Natural Health, the teaching clinic of Bastyr University,
“If your allergies persist despite conventional treatment, if you experience any negative side effects (drowsiness, dizziness, restlessness) from your antihistamines or if you have chronic sinus problems or other lingering allergy-related issues, Chinese herbal medicine [CHM] can offer help. I see many patients who are simply not responding well to Western medical treatment for their allergies, and they come to us for help. They find that CHM and acupuncture treatments can help clear up that chronically runny nose or those constant sinus headaches without side effects.”
Naturopathic medicine spring allergy remedies offer a symbiotic approach between nature and humans. These remedies may include herbal (botanical) medicine as well as peripheral treatments such as homeopathy (like cures like), clinical nutrition (healing foods), nutraceuticals (vitamin, mineral, enzyme supplements) and, if personal contact is possible, acupuncture.
Working through telemedicine or when allowable, directly with Integrative Med Solutions (IMS) naturopathic doctor and acupuncturist, Fred Lisanti, many applications can be applied for optimal, long lasting, allergy healing relief. These are examples of some Chinese herbs that may be used in conjunction with other naturopathic remedies.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Conventional medicine has, essentially, created a one pill fits all approach to illness, particularly seasonal allergies. As more patients became frustrated with these synthetic medicines, a yearning for holistic choices has emerged. Chinese medicine has centuries of observational benefits that science has come to research and validate. Some Chinese medicine herbs that may be applied include:
- Japanese Catnip (Schizonepeta Tenuifolia aka Jing Jie)
Spring allergies present with a significant inflammatory response. This medicinal herb cultivated chiefly in the provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Jiangxi, China is collected in early winter and dried for spring allergy application. According to Classical Chinese Medicine, Japanese catnip (not comparable to conventional catnip) is used to dispel external wind and eliminate cold.
A study published by Hindawi in a special issue of the journal, ‘Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Inflammatory Diseases 2018’ concluded that,
“Discovering a therapy for allergic inflammatory diseases with fewer side effects was an aim of this study. Based on the existing data, ST [Schizonepeta Tenuifolia] may be a possible treatment for allergic inflammatory diseases via targeting anti-inflammatory pathways. ST, a natural Chinese herbal medicine, could bring hope to patients with chronic allergic inflammatory diseases.”
- Carrot Cousin (Saposhnikovia Divaricata aka Fang Feng)
Saposhnikovia Divaricata aka Fang Feng (not to be confused with banned fen phen) is a perennial herb of the carrot family. In lab studies, this herb has been linked to reducing inflammation (particularly in tumor cells) along with acting as a potent anti-oxidant. Published in Oncology Reports and posted by the National Library of Medicine Fang Fen showed great promise,
“It is concluded that the SD [saposhnikovia divaricata] ethanol extract possesses strong anti-proliferative properties against several human tumor cell lines, a mild granulocyte differentiation inducing property on HL60 cells, and potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and protective properties on LPS-activated RAW 264.7 cells.”
When applied to allergies, this herb can be a highly effective remedy.
- Bi Min Fang
The ancient Chinese herb, bi min fang is specifically used to treat lung-spleen qi (chee – life force) deficiency syndrome (LSQDS) a common association of allergic rhinitis (AR). A 2019 study published in the journal Trials and posted by the PubMed database stated that,
“In our clinical practice, bi min fang (BMF), which is composed of modified bu zhong yi qi tang and yu ping feng san, is the most commonly used CHM [Chinese herbal medicine] formula for AR patients with LSQDS. The composition of BMF is based on a systematic review of classic reference books, articles obtained from the PubMed database, the Chinese scientific literature, clinical guidelines, and our clinical experience.”
It is the Chinese herbs like bing min fang that sit just below the radar waiting for a naturopathic doctor like Dr. Lisanti to professionally prescribe for optimal relief.
- Magnolia Flower Buds (Angelica Dahurica, Xin Yi Hua)
Magnolia flower buds can also be applied for a natural allergy remedy that brings relief without side effects. The National Library of Medicine posted a study published in ‘Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine’ which stated,
“Angelica dahurica (A. dahurica) is a medicinal plant widely used in China for the treatment of symptoms related to allergic inflammation. The present study investigated the chemical constituents from A. dahurica and evaluated their reductive effect on allergic inflammation. The present findings contribute to understanding how A. dahurica attenuates allergic inflammation.”
Magnolia flower buds are another example of obscure remedies that offer powerful results.
With proper guidance, these and many other CHM remedies can be applied solely or combined for an effective natural solution to spring allergies. Incorporating the aforementioned naturopathic remedies offers a strong protocol that could lessen and hopefully eliminate reliance on allergy pharmaceuticals.
At Integrative Med Solutions, we will design a naturopathic medicine treatment program that works for you either in person or through digital, telemedicine communication. In many cases, insurance covers portions of the acupuncture treatment. Allow us to support you to achieve optimal health. To make an appointment or find out more about how acupuncture and naturopathic medicine can benefit you, please call our office at 914-337-2980 or Click Here to schedule an online appointment.
*Please Click Here to see a current list of insurance companies that commonly carry acupuncture benefits for its members. For more info, please call 914-337-2980 or securely email us at info@intmedsolutions.com.
Best in health from Integrative Med Solutions.