Resetting the Immune System: Allergies, Asthma, and Acupuncture

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The immune system is a wonderful thing.  Without it we could not live a second–we would be totally consumed by bacteria and viruses.  But, it is fickle.  It can overreact or react in response to something that is not a pathogen.

Allergies are caused by the immune system reacting in a way it should not, and giving us problems.  Asthma is also caused by the immune system overreacting.

Why do asthma and allergies often occur together?

You’ve probably had this experience too.  Coming home in a chilly rain storm, you can feel the cold coming on.  It starts with an ache in your neck, the sniffles, and a slight fever and chills.  This delicious soup is a great remedy for an early stage cold.  And it is a snap to make.

How does Acupuncture approach asthma?

The idea behind Acupuncture and Chinese medicine treatment is that it corrects imbalances in the body. In chronic immune conditions, your body becomes hypersensitive to what should not cause a major reaction.  The acupuncture, acupressure, and Chinese herbs work to correct the imbalance and stimulate the body to heal itself.

1. Acupuncture treatment

Acupuncture is frequently used for treating asthma.  As with all acupuncture, the treatment focuses on correcting the root imbalance that is causing your asthma, resetting the body to be healthy. Acupuncture helps to reduce inflammation in allergic asthma. Acupuncture also helps to improve quality of life in those with asthma.

2. Chinese Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbs have long been used to treat asthma.  The herbs are focused regulating the immune system.  Most often, Chinese herbs are given as formulas, that is a combination of many different herbs combined which are taken together.

The combination helps to create a synergy.  Herbs correctly combined together are more powerful than single herbs. They also work together to reduce side effects.

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Qi gong practice
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Zorba the Greek using Cupping

3. Tai Ji and Qi Gong

Tai ji and qi gong are slow moving exercises which help to improve the circulation of qi. Chen Man-ching, one of the early and most famous tai ji teachers in America, began to study tai ji in order to help a chronic lung problem.  The exercises helped to heal him and prevent his condition from coming back.

4. Cupping

Chinese cupping is a technique which glass or plastic cups create a suction on the skin.  This helps to increase the circulation at that area.   It has been used with many different type of respiratory conditions.  With asthma, it helps to open the lungs and increase the expectoration of phlegm.  The tradition has also been used in Europe for a couple centuries and was captured in the movie Zorba  the Greek.

5. Anti-inflammatory Diet

It is also important to watch what you eat.  Avoiding pro-inflammatory foods such as dairy, greasy food, and gluten is important for those with asthma.  Dairy often stimulates the production of mucus and phlegm.  Ice cream and milk are the worst offenders.  Yogurt in moderation maybe ok. For those with severe asthma, it is better to avoid dairy products in general to help the body clear out the phlegm.

Photos: euthman, Oda’s coursesbarelyfitz

Joseph Alban

Joseph Alban, L.Ac.

Joseph Alban is a Doctor of Acupuncture, New York Licensed Acupuncturist, and NCCAOM Board Certified Herbalist providing the highest quality Acupuncture and Chinese medicine care tailored to your needs.

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