Dr. Robert Bastress, DACM
Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine

Blog Posts

**Acupuncture and Allergy Elimination**

Acupuncture has gained traction as a complementary treatment for allergy management. It provides a holistic approach to addressing symptoms without the side effects often associated with conventional medications. This ancient practice is believed to help balance the body’s energy, or “qi,” which can reduce allergic reactions.

Research supports the efficacy of acupuncture in alleviating symptoms of various allergies, including seasonal allergies and food sensitivities. A systematic review published in *Allergy* found that acupuncture significantly reduced the severity of allergic rhinitis symptoms, such as nasal congestion and sneezing (Lee et al., 2013). Patients reported fewer symptoms and improved quality of life after undergoing acupuncture treatments.

Additionally, acupuncture, in combination with techniques like the SAAT (Symptom-Activated Allergy Treatment), has shown promise in helping individuals with allergies find relief. This approach focuses on desensitizing the body to allergens through targeted acupuncture points, potentially leading to long-term benefits (Bastress, 2020).

Furthermore, acupuncture may also stimulate the release of endorphins and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial for individuals dealing with the stress and anxiety often associated with allergies. While more extensive research is needed to establish standardized protocols, many allergy sufferers find acupuncture to be a valuable part of their treatment regimen.

In conclusion, acupuncture offers a promising alternative for allergy relief, combining traditional practices with modern therapeutic insights.

**References:**
- Lee, J.H., et al. (2013). "Acupuncture for allergic rhinitis: a systematic review." *Allergy*.
- Bastress, R. (2020). Personal insights on SAAT and acupuncture for allergy elimination.