Springtime is back, finally. Unfortunately Spring brings for many an unwelcomed companion: ’Seasonal allergic rhinitis’, commonly known as ‘Hayfever’. Hayfever, triggered by pollen and grass, is due to an antigen-antibody reaction in the nasal mucosa.
In Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), these allergens are a form of external Wind. This external Wind is able to enter the body due to a deficiency in Defensive Qi (Wei Qi).
Qi is considered the “life force”, it is an invisible energy which circulates throughout the body. Wei Qi circulates on the surface of the body, protecting the body from pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. This concept is loosely related to how modern medicine views the immune system.
The external Wind can remain in the nose for months or years if the Wei Qi is too weak to expel it. The root cause for the weakness in Wei Qi can be either an imbalance with Lung Qi, weak Spleen Qi or deficient Kidney Qi.
Treatment in TCM is with herbal preparations several times a day and with regular acupuncture to re-establish the balance (in acute condition recommended several times a week). To strengthen Qi in the body, a balanced lifestyle is recommended, comprising of a healthy diet, adequate rest and exercise and cultivation of the mind.
Dr. Caroline Alison Nichols (TCM)
