Hayfever treatment in Edinburgh with acupuncture
- Anna Vincenti
- Apr 12
- 2 min read
What can you do for hayfever? Well, have you ever thought of acupuncture?!

What is hayfever? How can acupuncture help with hayfever in Edinburgh?
Hayfever, or seasonal allergic rhinitis, is a common condition that affects millions of people every year—especially when pollen levels are high. Symptoms often include sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, a runny nose, fatigue, and in some cases, headaches or sinus pressure. While it’s most common during spring and summer, some people can experience hayfever symptoms throughout the year, triggered by allergens like mould, dust mites, or pet dander.
Many people rely on antihistamines and nasal sprays to get through the worst of it, but these aren’t always effective—and they often come with side effects like drowsiness or dry mouth. That’s where acupuncture can offer a natural, drug-free alternative that supports the body’s own immune response.
How acupuncture can help
Acupuncture aims to regulate the immune system, reduce inflammation, and calm the overreaction to allergens. During treatment, ultra-fine needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points that help:
Clear nasal passages
Relieve sinus pressure
Ease itchy, watery eyes
Strengthen the immune system
Calm the nervous system and reduce stress (which can make symptoms worse)
Treatment is always personalised depending on what your body needs.
Research on Acupuncture for Hayfever
There’s growing scientific evidence to support the use of acupuncture for allergic rhinitis. A 2015 study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that acupuncture reduced the need for antihistamines and improved quality of life in hayfever sufferers compared to sham treatment or no treatment. The effects were especially noticeable after a full course of treatment—usually around 8 sessions.
Another study published in Allergy (2013) involving 422 participants found that those who received acupuncture reported fewer symptoms and used less medication over the course of treatment.
These findings suggest that acupuncture isn’t just about short-term symptom relief—it’s about creating a more balanced and resilient internal environment so the body doesn’t overreact when it encounters allergens.
Looking for acupuncture for hayfever in Edinburgh?
If you’re struggling with hayfever and looking for a natural way to manage it, acupuncture could be a great option for you. Treatments are gentle, personalised, and aim to support your long-term well-being—not just cover up symptoms. Click here to book
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