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Allergies Are Worse in the Northeast
According to experts like Greg Kress from Pollen.com, allergies tend to hit harder in the Northeast. While we’re surrounded by concrete and skyscrapers, NYC is also rich with trees, grasses, and blooming flowers that fill the air with pollen. In fact, millions of New Yorkers deal with allergies every spring, summer, and fall.
What Causes Allergies?
Allergies are your immune system’s overreaction to airborne allergens like pollen. When you breathe in these particles, your body treats them like harmful invaders. This triggers the release of histamines, causing inflammation and symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and headaches.
Allergy symptoms aren’t just annoying—they can seriously interfere with your life, affecting your sleep, focus, and productivity. Emerging research even suggests a link between allergies and mood disorders like depression or anxiety.
How I Treat Allergies Naturally in My Practice
As an acupuncturist, I rely on a holistic toolkit that includes acupuncture, acupressure, and Chinese herbal medicine. These therapies don’t just mask the symptoms—they help regulate the immune system, calm inflammation, and restore balance in the body.
Here are five natural strategies I use for myself and my patients:
Acupuncture for Allergy Relief
Acupuncture is highly effective for reducing sinus pressure, headaches, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes. It works by calming the immune response and promoting circulation in the head and sinuses. Points I often use include:
- LI4 (He Gu) and ST36 (Zusanli) to reduce inflammation and boost energy
- DU20, UB4, and UB7 on the scalp to open the sinuses and relieve pressure
Acupressure for Self-Care
Acupressure is a wonderful self-care technique that complements acupuncture.
You can try this at home:
Gently massage LI20 (beside the nostrils) and UB1 (inner corners of the eyes)
Rub the scalp and ears to stimulate circulation
Press LI4 and ST36 to support overall immune function
Yin Qiao San for Throat and Itchy Eyes
This classic Chinese herbal formula is my go-to when there’s a sore or scratchy throat at the start of allergy season. It clears “wind-heat,” a term in Traditional Chinese Medicine for immune irritation. I often add man jing zi and ju hua to target itchy eyes.
Bi Yan Pian for Sinus Congestion and Headache
This powerful formula—literally meaning “nose-clear tablet”—is ideal when allergies cause sinus blockage and pain. It opens the nasal passages, eases pressure, and reduces headache. Start slowly, as it can be quite strong.
Cang Er Zi Tang: Herbal Nasal Drops
This formula is excellent for nasal inflammation and congestion. I prepare it as a nasal oil by steeping powdered herbs in sesame oil. Used as drops, it moistens the nasal passages and reduces inflammation right where it’s needed.
Traditional Chinese Medicine offers an effective, natural, drug free path to relieve allergies and start feeling better. You don’t have to suffer through spring—there’s a better way forward.
