Newsletter 9 September 2026
SPRING NEWSLETTER
Wind, Warmth & Watery Eyes: Treating Spring Allergies the TCM Way
And just like that we’re nearing mid Spring and along comes everyone's least favourite houseguest: Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis (SAR), along with potential for more colds, flu and sinusitis. In Chinese medicine we call SAR an External Wind invasion featuring sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny or blocked nose, often the organ systems that we consider protecting the exterior of the body Lung and Spleen Qi have a lower protective capacity which predisposes people to External Wind .In terms of allopathic medicine an immune response to allergens trigger histamine release and inflammation in the nasal and sinus tissues, producing the classic seasonal allergy & hay fever picture.
Here are a few Self-care things to consider, for yourself, friends & family
• Be aware of what’s happening in the environment, here in Canterbury high pressure air systems with Nor West Winds are common, on those days the pollen counts in the air are much higher. The Met Service app gives a daily update of the tree and grass varieties currently pollinating.
• If you’re in the environment regularly, pick your time to go. Earlier mornings when the dew has fallen overnight, will bring down the pollen count. As with Rain, there’s always lower pollen directly after it’s rained.
• Keep windows shut on high pollen count, windy days.
• Consider wearing a face covering and terminator style wrap around glasses, the barrier protects from pollen getting into your nose, lungs and eyes.. (as pictured above)…
• If you’re very allergic consider change clothes after being outdoors to stop pollen travelling into the house, shower and or eye baths if you’re experiencing contact allergy there.
• Saline rinses (a neti pot or saline spray) physically clear allergens from the nasal passages, simple and cheap.
• Support of your "defensive Qi" by prioritising sleep, keep stress levels low.
• Keep meals warm and easy to digest, go easy on cold, raw or sugary foods.
• Try nasal self-massage over LI20 (beside the nostrils), Yintang (between the brows) and LI4 on the muscle between your thumb and index finger for quick relief of congestion. If you have some a gentle oil like Olbas on those points may help disperse and clear.
• Keep pets groomed, vacuum with a HEPA filter.
• Be aware of high histamine foods & reduce intake of those. I’m happy to share that information with feel free to reach out for that. lu@nikauroom.co.nz
• If you have an allergy to something, minimise intake or contact with it! Take medical advice as necessary, antihistamines are sometimes and or often essential, research shows Acupuncture enhances the effects.
Where does acupuncture fit in?I generally recommend acupuncture treatment for Acute treatment or Prophylactically assisting management & mitigation. Ideally regular seasonal treatment started a few weeks before any Allergy flare-up begins, aims to both settle acute symptoms and strengthen the underlying Lung/Spleen/Wei Qi for preventative support.
It’s looking like we are going to be in for a Strong Fire (Summer) season this year take care out there. If you’re struggling & would like some help with allergies or sinuisitis, am here to help. Booking Link
Until next time
Lu
