This year, allergy season is just about as bad as it’s ever been in the Bay Area. From February onwards, those who suffer from allergic rhinitis have been seeking help for itchy eyes, runny noses, sneezing, sinus headaches, and more. For some people, standard allergy medications are not sufficient to keep the symptoms at bay; for others, the standard daily medications are overly drying and create unwanted side effects. Thankfully, Chinese herbal medicine has highly effective, natural formulas that can address all of the symptoms that allergy sufferers struggle with. The primary Chinese herbal formula for allergies, known as Cang Er Zi Wan, contains just four herbs: xanthium fruit, mint, magnolia flower bud, and angelica root. These herbs work synergistically:

• Xanthium fruit opens the nasal passages, enables mucus to drain, and relieves headaches;
• Magnolia flower bud opens the nasal passages;
• Angelica root relieves pain and helps to drain mucus from the nasal passages; and
• Mint soothes the throat and clears the eyes and the head.

This beautiful and effective formula can be taken regularly during allergy season, or as needed when symptoms are milder. Another herbal tincture that I frequently prescribe combines Cang Er Zi Wan (mentioned above) with a classic formula for preventing illness. This formula is perfect for those who have allergies as well as a propensity to catch colds. I’ve had several patients switch from daily use of pharmaceutical allergy medications to daily use of these natural herbal remedies. Some other patients who still want to remain on daily pharmaceuticals use the Chinese herbal formulas to manage days when symptoms are overwhelming. These herbal remedies can be taken alone, or combined with acupuncture for immediate sinus relief. Additionally, they’re safe for both adults and children! If you’re curious to learn more about how herbal medicine can help you and your family with allergies, give me a call for a consultation.