During the annual change of seasons, many people encounter an uninvited guest - allergic rhinitis. It's not just a slight discomfort, but can have a significant impact on our quality of life, from our daily routines to a good night's sleep. However, among the many solutions, there is one ancient and simple method that many overlook: acupressure in traditional Chinese medicine. Without the use of medications, it is possible to achieve significant relief in just a few simple steps.
Allergic rhinitis, an inflammatory reaction in the nose caused by external allergens, is common during the change of seasons. It's not just a simple sneeze or nasal congestion; In fact, it is the result of an overreaction of the immune system to changes in the environment. During the change of seasons, the concentration of allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and molds changes, which becomes the main factor triggering allergic rhinitis.
The role of the immune system
The core of allergic rhinitis lies in the abnormal response of the body's immune system. Normally, the immune system protects us from bacteria and viruses. However, in patients with allergic rhinitis, the immune system regards environmentally harmless substances such as pollen as harmful substances and releases large amounts of immune mediators (such as histamine), causing symptoms such as nasal inflammation, edema, and increased secretions.
Variety of symptoms
The symptoms of allergic rhinitis are not limited to nasal congestion and runny nose. It can also cause itchy eyes, increased tears, an itchy or dry throat, and a feeling of blockage in the ears. Long-term failure or improper control may also cause complications such as sinusitis, otitis media, etc.
& Management
For allergic rhinitis, the focus is on avoiding allergens and relieving symptoms. While avoiding allergens altogether may not be realistic, it is possible to effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life by reducing indoor allergens (e.g., regular cleaning, using air purifiers, etc.) and taking appropriate medications** (e.g., antihistamines, nasal sprays, etc.).
In addition, acupressure, as an adjunct, regulates the body's immune response and alleviates symptoms by stimulating specific acupuncture points, which is a self-management strategy without medication.
The scientific roots of acupressure
Seasonal allergic rhinitis, an abnormal immune response caused by the change of seasons, is often bothersome for many people. In traditional medicine, acupressure is seen as an effective adjunct. The scientific nature of the method is based on the association of acupuncture points with specific physiological pathways of the body, which regulate the body's self-recovery and immune response by stimulating these points.
Acupuncture point stimulation and immune modulation
Studies have shown that acupressure can help alleviate allergic reactions by increasing blood circulation and enhancing the function of the lymphatic system. In addition, it can reduce inflammation and allergy symptoms by stimulating the nervous system and regulating the response of the immune system. Acupressure not only helps to alleviate local symptoms such as nasal congestion and runny nose, but also improves the body's resistance to future allergic reactions to a certain extent.
Evidence of the practice of acupressure
A number of clinical experiments and practical experience support the application of acupressure in the application of allergic rhinitis in the changing seasons. Specific acupuncture points, such as Yingxiang acupoint and Liangqiu acupoint, can significantly improve rhinitis symptoms and improve quality of life through massage. These findings not only demonstrate the immediate effect of acupressure on allergic rhinitis symptoms, but also reveal its potential benefits in regulating the immune system and reducing the frequency of allergy attacks.
Deepening of scientific research
At present, biomedical research is further exploring the molecular mechanisms of how acupressure specifically affects immune responses such as cytokines and immune cells. These studies are expected to provide a deeper scientific basis for the effectiveness of acupressure in the prevention and development of allergic diseases, thereby providing a safe and effective self-management strategy for patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis.
When dealing with seasonal allergic rhinitis, TCM acupressure is an effective self**. This section will focus on a few key acupuncture points and their massage methods to help relieve allergy symptoms and strengthen the body's resistance.
1.Yingxiang Cave - The portal is fresh
Located on either side of the alar when the outer edge of the alar meets the longitudinal muscles of the face. Yingxiang acupoint is an important acupuncture point that directly affects the nose, and massage can relieve symptoms such as nasal congestion and sneezing.
Massage Method:Gently press the Yingxiang acupoint with your index finger and massage in a clockwise and then counterclockwise direction for 1-2 minutes on each side.
2.Cranial Cavity - Overhead purification station
Located on the head, when the two apex of the ears meet the intersection of the midline of the top of the head. The cranial suspensory point helps to clear the discomfort of the head and nose, and improves dizziness and headache.
Massage Method:Cross your hands, grasp the cranial point on the top of your head with the base of your palms, gently press and rotate in small increments for 3-5 minutes each time.
3.Wind Pond Cave - Wind chill disintegrates
Located on the neck, when the depression of the mastoid bone behind the ear, intersects with the edge of the hair. Feng Chi acupoint is a key acupuncture point for regulating immunity and relieving allergic rhinitis and headaches.
Massage Method:Press down on the Feng Chi acupoint with your thumb and place the other four fingers lightly on your head, press firmly on the acupuncture points and gently make circular motions for 2-3 minutes on each side.
4.Hegu Acupoint - The center of body regulation
Located on the back of the hand, the first.
The high point between the first and second metacarpal bones, where the joints of the thumb and index finger merge. Hegu acupoint can regulate the balance of yin and yang in the human body, enhance immunity, and alleviate allergic symptoms.
Massage Method:Press the Hegu acupoint with the thumb of the other hand and rotate slightly after acupressure for 1-2 minutes on each side.
Massage tips:
Before and after the massage, take a deep breath to relax your mind and help to enhance the results of the massage.
The massage should be moderately strong, and you can feel a slight soreness to avoid discomfort caused by excessive force.
Daily massage, especially during the change of seasons, can significantly improve quality of life and reduce allergic reactions.