Now is one of the WORST times for people who suffer with seasonal allergies but Classical Chinese Medicine can help!
1. Food Matters. Making changes to our food choices can be hard but if it’s making us sick or contributing to our illness wouldn’t we want to know? Try to remove any processed foods and instead focus on things that are seasonal and local. Checking out your local Farmer’s Market or joining a CSA is a great place to start. Other ideas include Field Goods, Wholeshare, Purple Dragon and other buying groups that connect like-minded health conscious people. If you need more help, we work with people on meal planning as well.
2. Bowel health matters! Harmonize your Stomach and Spleen Qi. Step One will help a lot with this but acupuncture and essential oil remedies can give you the extra help sometimes needed.
3. Wear a scarf. Protecting your neck, known as “wind points” in Chinese Medicine is an important way to stay healthy as the seasons change. Ever feel a small tickle in your throat and wake up the next day with a “cold”? Wearing a scarf can keep you well, just like your grandmother probably told you.
4. Cut out the cold. When the weather turns cool, it’s time to balance this out by consuming warming foods. Put any salad or smoothie habit on hiatus and try soups and stews. You’ll notice you have more energy, feel fuller longer, and the digestive energy you are gaining will help keep your lungs healthy and allergies at bay.
5. Consider supplementation. Speak with a physician of Natural Medicine for a full assessment. Some options include antihistamines such as; local honey, propolis, and quercetain with bioflavanoids as well as immune boosters like echinacea, Vitamin C, and goldenseal.
It’s no fun to suffer with allergy symptoms. AND, long term use of pharmaceuticals may weaken the immune system. If there’s a safe and natural way that promotes greater health and helps you NOT HAVE TO take a pill, why not try? Starting with the smallest intervention is a good strategy and one we try and practice with natural medicine.
For more help reach out or contact another physician of Natural Medicine.
We wish you a sniffle free springtime and better overall health!
Dr. Leah Schwartz, D.Ac., L.Ac., NCCAOM. http://www.liftedheart.com
Lifted Heart Healing Arts, Hudson Valley Classical Chinese Medicine + Wellness
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