Friday, May 8, 2009

Allergy, Asthma

The weather is finally getting better. While most of us are enjoying this beautiful weather, some are suffering from allergy symptoms, such as runny nose, watery eyes, itchiness, nasal congestion, wheezing in the chest, and difficulty concentrating on everyday tasks. Allergies occur when the immune system becomes unusually sensitive and overreacts to common substances that are normally harmless, such as pollens, molds, dust or food. Genetic tendency plays a role since allergies tend to run in families.
The root of allergy and asthma, according to TCM, is Lung Qi deficiency. When this occurs, we first detoxify in order to relieve symptoms. After that, we focus on improving Lung Qi. According to five elements, Lungs belongs to metal, its mother is earth (Spleen), its son is water (Kidney). So, it makes sense to work on the Spleen and Kidney Qi at the same time. Treatment is usually with acupuncture or/and herbs. But for the little ones, or some adults who are really afraid of needles, an alternative would be cupping and moxibustion.
In addition, there is a special and effective treatment without pain which is called “winter problems treated in summer”. TCM says that the root of allergy and asthma is Lung Qi deficiency. Qi belongs to Yang. For this treatment, using the Chinese calendar, we choose three hottest days in the summer. Then a mixture of herbs are placed on certain points, using outside Yang to improve Yang inside body to heal the problem. It’s just like a sailboat on a river – it takes advantage of wind, making everything easier.