Where to apply acupuncture for allergies?

Under normal circumstances, allergies are conditions in which the immune system overreacts to certain substances. Acupuncture can be used as an adjunctive therapy to relieve allergy symptoms. Commonly used acupoints include Sibai (ST2), Shenmen (HT7), Sanyinjiao (SP6), Yujie (not a standard acupoint; possibly referring to Yuji, LU10 or another point), and Dazhui (GV14). If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific details are as follows:

1. Sibai (ST2)

Sibai acupoint is located on the face, below the infraorbital foramen, directly beneath the pupil. Acupuncture at Sibai can help regulate the immune system and alleviate allergic reactions, particularly effective for nasal allergies and allergic rhinitis.

Correction note: The original Chinese text incorrectly describes the location of "Sibai" as being on the back of the hand between the thumb and index finger—this actually refers to Hegu (LI4), not Sibai. The correct anatomical location of Sibai (ST2) is under the eye.

2. Shenmen (HT7)

Shenmen acupoint is located on the inner wrist, in the depression on the radial side of the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon, at the level of the transverse crease of the wrist. Acupuncture at Shenmen can help regulate nervous system function, support immune balance, and improve allergy-related symptoms.

Correction note: The original Chinese text inaccurately places Shenmen at the top of the head, approximately five finger-widths from the anterior hairline—this description does not match any standard acupoint. The correct location of Shenmen (HT7) is on the wrist.

3. Sanyinjiao (SP6)

Sanyinjiao acupoint is located on the inner side of the lower leg, approximately three finger-widths above the tip of the medial malleolus, posterior to the tibia. Acupuncture at Sanyinjiao helps regulate bodily fluid metabolism and the immune system, and may improve symptoms such as skin itching and eczema caused by allergies.

4. Yujie (Possibly referring to Yuji, LU10)

The term "Yujie" is not a standard acupoint name. However, if referring to Yuji (LU10), it is located along the radial edge of the thumb, at the junction of the red and white tissue. Alternatively, the description in the original text—“at the cleft between the ear tip and cheek”—does not correspond to any recognized acupoint. If intended to refer to points related to nasal allergies, possible candidates might include Bitong (EX-HN8) or Yingxiang (LI20). Acupuncture at relevant points may help relieve symptoms of nasal allergies and rhinitis and regulate immune function.

5. Dazhui (GV14)

Dazhui acupoint is located at the base of the neck, in the depression below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra—the most prominent bony protrusion when the head is bent forward. Acupuncture at Dazhui can enhance immune function and alleviate allergy symptoms such as respiratory allergies and asthma.

It is important to note that acupuncture treatment should only be performed under the guidance of qualified professionals. Self-treatment or blind acupuncture use is not recommended.