Reducing Allergy Symptoms with Acupuncture & non-needling techniques

Spring has arrived in the Old Pueblo, gracing us with the breathtaking sight of vibrant blooms dotting our desert landscape. However, amidst this natural beauty, lurks the perennial nemesis of many: spring allergies.

It’s not uncommon to see Tucson’s residents and visitors walking around with red-rimmed watery eyes, sniffly noses, and foggy heads this time of year. These symptoms can negatively affect our quality of life and cause loss of sleep, fatigue, poor mood, and decreased ability to work and be fully present with our loved ones. 

Many turn to their medicine cabinets desperate for relief and tolerate the uncomfortable side effects of allergy medications. Thankfully there is another option. According to the most up-to-date evidence, acupuncture is an effective treatment for allergic rhinitis. Studies also suggest that acupuncture is safer than current commonly used medications and may be more cost-effective.

“Symptoms showing the greatest improvement included sneezing, itchy nose, itchy eyes, runny nose, blocked nose, and interrupted sleep. Symptoms continued to improve after treatment for up to 3 months.” 

For the science-minded among us: Studies that measured immune system changes also reported significant reductions in inflammatory mediators including substance P (SP), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), interleukin 4, and dust-mite specific IgE.  Acupuncture has been recommended in the allergic rhinitis clinical practice guideline of the Otolaryngology Head Neck Surgery Foundation in the US as a treatment option for those who prefer a non-pharmacological treatment. At Soul Space Tucson, clients can expect a comprehensive assessment of their health and lifestyle to ensure that the acupuncture treatment is not only effective in alleviating spring allergies but also supportive of their broader health goals. The serene environment and expert care at Soul Space Tucson provide a holistic healing experience, making it a favored destination for those seeking natural remedies to seasonal challenges.

Sounds AMAZING but not sure about having needles in your face? There are acupuncture points located over nearly the whole body. The most common locations for treating allergies are on the hands, feet, and face. When treating the face we use the finest, smallest, and smoothest acupuncture needles available. While you may feel a small pinching sensation if you are extremely congested most of the points are painless and lend themselves to part of the relaxing and soothing experience of receiving an acupuncture treatment. 

Our acupuncturist may also use gentle facial cupping or soothing facial gua sha to promote lymphatic drainage, improve circulation, relieve tension, and assist in relieving congestion in the sinuses to promote drainage. These relaxing and rejuvenating techniques are commonly utilized in cosmetic acupuncture as well. 

Cosmetic acupuncture, also known as facial acupuncture, aims to improve the appearance of the skin by stimulating collagen production, increasing blood flow, and reducing muscle tension through the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the face. It is a non-invasive, gentle, and effective way to gracefully support our skin’s aging process. 

If you're intrigued by cosmetic acupuncture, facial cupping, or gentle facial gua sha, even if allergies aren't a concern for you but you are curious about the benefits to your health, schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation with our acupuncturist to explore these techniques further.

*For those wanting a more in-depth explanation of how acupuncture can help relieve allergies please visit: 

https://www.evidencebasedacupuncture.org/acupuncture-allergic-rhinitis/