Acupuncture and Allergic Rhinitis: An Ancient Practice Bringing Relief to Modern Woes

According to the CDC, in 2021, allergic rhinitis affected 25.7% of adults over 18 and 18.9% of children under 18. This is approximately 81 million people in the US. Seasonal allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction to pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds.

Episodes of allergic rhinitis produce sneezing, runny nose, and itchy nose and eyes. These episodes can lead to disrupted sleep, increased fatigue, and poor concentration.

According to the most recent evidence by Reinhold et al. (2020) and Kim et al. (2012), acupuncture is an effective treatment for allergic rhinitis and may be more cost-effective than current commonly used allergy medication. Please consult with your Primary Care Provider before stopping or reducing the usage of any medication.

How does acupuncture help?

Acupuncture reduces the symptoms of allergic rhinitis and improves the tolerance of potential- allergens through several processes.

When someone has an episode of allergic rhinitis, their immune system mistakenly identifies harmless irritants as a threat (allergen). The body then creates specific immunoglobulins, also known as antibodies, which attack antigens. The immunoglobulins produced in the response to allergic rhinitis are called IgEs. The body then creates multiple chemical and systemic reactions that create inflammation in the nasal mucus membrane, producing the common symptoms of itching, sneezing, and runny and/or blocked nose (McDonald et al., 2015).

Acupuncture has been shown to reduce IgE levels as well as reduce the expression, sensitivity, and activation of immune responses that produce symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Interested in trying acupuncture to help with your seasonal allergies?

The staff at Thrive Acupuncture can help! We offer services for both pediatrics and adults.

PMID: 24256028

PMID: 23099289



PMID: 26339274