How Complementary Medicine Can Improve Allergy Symptoms
Allergies are a common condition in Australia and it’s something we see a lot of Perth clients coming in to address at Canning Healthcare, especially around changing seasons. Depending on the severity, we know from chatting to our clients that allergies can significantly affect their quality of life - whether that’s avoiding social situations, fear of judgement around their symptoms, or even their mental health and wellbeing.
At Canning Healthcare we tailor some of our complementary therapies and treatments to address and ease the most common allergy symptoms in Perth.
What are the most common symptoms of allergies?
Allergic reactions occur when your immune system overreacts to a foreign substance, resulting in symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and inflammation. Other symptoms can be watery nasal discharge, nasal itching, and nasal congestion, tears, red eyes, and burning sensations. Some people may even have pulmonary symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness to contend with in more serious cases.
Although traditional medicine has proven effective in treating allergies, complementary medicine such as acupuncture and naturopathy can also be a valuable tool in easing allergy symptoms. Let’s explore how complementary medicine can help manage your allergies.
What are the most common allergens/causes of allergies?
Pollens
Grass, weeds
Animal dander
Insect saliva
Insect stings
Dust and dust mites
Moulds and fungal spores
Air pollutants
How can acupuncture help with allergies?
A large number of epidemiological investigations have shown that allergic rhinitis (AR) is actually on the rise, a condition that causes sneezing, runny nose, and congestion. Desensitising drugs such as nasal glucocorticoids and antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergic rhinitis, but this method has a long treatment period and can potentially result in further attacks and adverse reactions. Luckily, acupuncture can be a natural treatment option - without the risk of drug damage!
Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. According to the Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA), their study found that acupuncture can reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms in individuals with allergic rhinitis. Our Perth acupuncturist at Canning Healthcare, Jasmine Langlands, says acupuncture was well-tolerated.
Additionally, acupuncture may modulate the immune system and it has been proposed as a useful treatment for patients with allergic rhinitis. Although the exact mechanisms of acupuncture treatment of diseases is still an area of further study, results of clinical studies indicate that acupuncture therapy has a comparable effect to the medication treatment on patients with moderate to severe allergic rhinitis, and it is generally well-tolerated.
How can a naturopath help with allergies?
Naturopathy is a form of complementary medicine that focuses on natural remedies and therapies to promote healing. The Australian Naturopathic Practitioners Association (ANPA) suggests that certain natural remedies, such as herbal medicine and dietary changes, can help manage allergy symptoms.
Eczema is another allergic manifestation (skin related) that occurs in the allergy season as well. Our Canning Healthcare naturopath, Kirsty Lakstins-Adams, notes that stinging nettle, a natural antihistamine, can alleviate allergy symptoms such as itching and inflammation. Additionally, she recommends avoiding certain foods that are commonly associated with flare ups, such as dairy, high histamine foods (such as fermented foods), and sulphite-containing foods, such as wine, which can exacerbate allergies in some people.
Depending on your specific allergies and symptoms, a naturopath may recommend:
Zinc
Quercetin and rutin
Specific strains of probiotics
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Quercetin and rutin
L-histidine
Bromelain
PEA
Vitamins B6 and B12
Vitamin C
Magnesium
Omega-3 fatty acids
How can complementary medicine help with allergies?
While more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of these therapies, leading Australian medical bodies have acknowledged their potential benefits. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) recognises that acupuncture may provide relief for individuals with allergic rhinitis, and the Australian Medical Association (AMA) acknowledges the potential benefits of naturopathy for managing allergies. At Canning Healthcare, we believe it’s important to discuss any complementary therapies with your healthcare provider, and we work alongside your other healthcare providers for a holistic approach to your care.
Ultimately, complementary medicine treatments including acupuncture and naturopathy are known to provide relief for individuals with allergies. If you are struggling with allergy symptoms, get in touch with one of our expert Perth complementary medicine practitioners at Canning Healthcare to discuss your treatment options, or book online today.
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