Don't let the summer affect your skin
Itchy eyes, a runny nose and frequent sneezing are just a few of the miseries that will afflict hay fever sufferers over the summer months.
As pollen levels soar, the number of UK sufferers could reach over 15 million: that’s 20-25% of the UK population, making the spring and summer seasons a miserable time for many.
While hay fever sufferers may reach for the medicine counter for relief, there is an alternative, effective treatment that can naturally alleviate the symptoms of hay fever - acupuncture. By inserting fine needles into the channels of energy which run underneath the skin, an acupuncturist can stimulate the body’s own healing response and help restore its natural balance.
The Research
Acupuncture may help to relieve pain and congestion in people with allergic rhinitis by:
- Regulating levels of IgE and cytokines, mediators of the allergic reaction to extrinsic allergens
- Reducing inflammation, by promoting release of vascular and immunomodulatory factors
How Acupuncture Can Help
Deb Connor is a member of the British Acupuncture Council practising traditional acupuncture at her clinic in Merseyside.
“As an acupuncturist a common complaint I see in my clinic is skin problems, which can often be worse during the warmth of the summer months. Problems such as hives or heat rashes can leave patients feeling fed up as well as itchy. A summer course of acupuncture can be helpful to clear the skin and improve the feeling of well being.
Acupuncture is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) the basis of diagnosis and treatment is that the mind and body should be in perfect balance. If the energy of the body; known as ‘Qi’ is out of balance due to overwork, stress or from life in general, all manner of problems and feelings of ill health can result.
Your acupuncturist will do a full diagnostic consultation, asking questions about all aspects of your health and well being including; your sleep, your digestion, your diet. Your acupuncturist will also look at your tongue and feel your pulses on both wrists. This comprehensive diagnostic consultation allows an individualised treatment plan to be made.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine problems such as hives and heat rashes often relate to the body holding too much ‘heat’. Acupuncture together with diet and lifestyle advice can help release and reduce this heat, helping to alleviate the skin problem and have you feeling full of energy and vitality ready to enjoy the summer!
During the acupuncture treatment ultra fine needles are placed, usually on the limbs or body, to regulate the flow of energy; ‘Qi’, around the body, thus reducing the retained heat and helping to clear the skin.
Research has shown that acupuncture is safe and effective. Acupuncture gently stimulates the body’s own healing capability. Some patients begin to feel differences after just one session; however it is recommended that you attend for a course of treatments in order to get to the root of your problem. The number of sessions required will depend on how long you have been experiencing the skin problem and any other symptoms you are experiencing.”
Tagged in Beauty Tips Hay Fever skincare Skin allergy