A catalog of past monthly topics.
HAY FEVER (June -25)
Each month I'll be taking a closer look at a particular health problem . This month, I will be delving into the issues of Hay fever and providing some self-care tips to cope with it.
With the arrival of the summery weather, the greenery around us has flourished, bringing beauty but also challenges for those suffering from hayfever. While antihistamines are a common solution, they may not always be effective or preferred by everyone. In such cases Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can be great alternatives.
Hayfever, is essentially an immune system over reaction, and while conventional medicine can help to manage symptoms, it often falls short in addressing the root cause. From a Chinese medical perspective, the goal is to strengthen the body and balance the immune system to better withstand pollen's effects. Acupuncture, focusing on specific points on the hands, face and lower legs can help alleviate symptoms and address underlying imbalances unique to each individual. Additionally, advice on stress management and diet may be given as they impact on inflammation and immune function.
For self help: Consider incorporating daily supplements like zinc, magnesium and Vit D to support a healthy immune system, especially beneficial for respiratory issues. Magnesium, know for it's natural antihistamine properties, can be particularly helpful. Turmeric, a potent anti inflammatory, can boost resistance to allergies, while bromelain, found in pineapple or as a supplement, can reduce nasal swelling if started a few months before the hayfever season. Finally, a teaspoon of local honey daily may also help to build immunity to local allergens.
