Allergies: Acupressure Points & Self-Care

An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people. Common triggers include pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, food, insect stings and medicines. Allergies can cause a runny nose, sneezing, itching, rashes, swelling or asthma.

Traditional use: in TCM, points such as LI-20, LU-7 and ST-36 are traditionally used for a blocked, runny nose and itching. Medical treatments include medicines, allergy shots, and avoiding the substances that cause the reactions.

Recognizing Symptoms

Physical Symptoms

  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Itching
  • Rashes
  • Swelling

Primary Points for Allergies

Select a point to learn more.

Additional Support Points

Select a point to learn more.

Self-Care Acupressure Routines

Allergy Routine (5 minutes)

  1. Sit comfortably and take slow, deep breaths
  2. Press and hold LI-20 on both sides for 30 seconds
  3. Massage LU-7 in circular motions for 1 minute
  4. Apply firm pressure to ST-36 for 30 seconds each leg
  5. If you have redness or itching: add LI-4 and LI-11

Everyday Considerations

Treatment

  • Avoid triggers: Avoiding the substances that cause reactions is part of treatment, alongside medicines and allergy shots

Pregnancy

  • Traditionally avoided during pregnancy: LU-7, LI-4. Skip these points if you are or may be pregnant.

When to Seek Medical Care

Anaphylaxis

  • A severe allergic reaction can be life-threatening: see the warning below