Hello, Spring! Where has the year gone? Is it me, or did April come really really fast this year? This one is for those of us who are affected by seasonal allergies and the beautiful budding pollinating plants of Spring! You might be wondering…what can I do to prevent, reduce or manage the the severity of my allergy symptoms? Here, I share some tips for allergy relief!
TREATING THE SYMPTOMS
Run your air purifier & Replace your HVAC filter
Many of us invested in an air purifier for our homes either during previous PNW wildfires or when the pandemic hit. Remember to change out your filter every 4-6 months – start the season with a fresh filter and be sure to keep it running day and night! If you live in a house, it can be to forget about our HVAC filters! Those also need to be changed out ideally every 6 months. For allergies, be sure to grab an HVAC filter that is rated at least MERV 11 (the higher the number, the smaller the particles it will filter). These can filter up to 90% of pollen allergens from the air.
Acupressure & facial massage
Easy to do wherever you are and you‘re in need of instant allergy relief! Check out this video demonstrating facial massage and lymphatic drainage. Bonus points if you have a guasha tool! Don’t have one? They’re pretty affordable, you can grab this heart-shaped one made for the curves of the face here on Amazon.
Acupuncture & Moxibustion
Of course, acupuncture and moxibustion are great ways to help regulate your immune responses to pollen allergens and bring relief to acute symptoms. You can do moxa at home too – ask us about a recommended point protocol for your symptoms next time you’re in!
Whip out your neti pot
Neti pots are designed for us to rinse our nasal cavity of debris or mucus and can be helpful to reduce the risk of infection for those of us who may be prone to sinus infections. Read more about how to use a neti pot here.
SUPPLEMENT SUPPORT
Starting supplements at least 1-2 months before Spring is expected or when you usually start having symptoms is a great way to get ahead of your allergies. By doing so, you can either prevent or reduce your immune response when the pollen starts flying!
Supplements to support your immune system, reduce inflammation and the cytokines and histamines that drive allergies.
- Quercetin
- Nettles
- Zinc
Chinese herbal formulas may be recommended by your acupuncturist, if it’s a good fit for your pattern, to provide allergy symptom relief. Common ones include:
- Cang Er Zi San
- Wind Pearls
Always ask your East Asian Medicine provider, acupuncturist or other health professional about supplement or herbs to know if they are right for you.
What are some of your favorite tips for allergy relief during the pollen-filled Spring season? 😄
Need to come in for some acupuncture, moxa or herbal support? Schedule here.
