A new meta-analysis of 13 research papers which encompassed a total of 2365 participants, suggests acupuncture helps allergic rhinitis. Not only is it safe, but the authors concluded that compared with controls, it lead to a significant reduction in nasal symptoms, medication use and serum IgE levels, coupled with quality of life improvements. The paper was published in the highly-respected American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy, along with an accompanying editorial by Dr Jeffrey Suh which points out that complementary medicine has become a popular treatment option for many patients with rhinitis and rhinosinusitis, so it is important that clinicians are aware of its use and potential benefits.
(Acupuncture for the treatment of allergic rhinitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy, Jan-Feb 2015.)