Special (Allergic) Constitution
A constitution characterized by an innate hypersensitivity of the body, generally hereditary in origin. It includes allergies, congenital hypersensitivities, and other special genetically transmitted conditions. Wei Qi (defensive Qi) is dysregulated, producing exaggerated responses to external stimu
Description
A constitution characterized by an innate hypersensitivity of the body, generally hereditary in origin. It includes allergies, congenital hypersensitivities, and other special genetically transmitted conditions. Wei Qi (defensive Qi) is dysregulated, producing exaggerated responses to external stimuli.
Physical and emotional traits
Physical
- High sensitivity to external allergens
- Tendency toward rashes and hives
- Reactive nasal mucosa (allergic rhinitis)
- Red, watery eyes on exposure to allergens
- Sensitive, reactive skin
- Possible history of allergic asthma
- Digestion sensitive to certain foods
Emotional
- Generally good emotional balance
- Increased anxiety during allergic episodes
- Stress from managing allergies
- Emotional sensitivity related to physical well-being
- May present characteristics of other constitutions simultaneously
Common symptoms
- Allergic rhinitis (鼻鼽, bí qiú): sneezing, mucus, nasal itching
- Hives and skin rashes
- Allergic asthma (哮喘, xiāo chuǎn)
- Allergic conjunctivitis
- Atopic eczema
- Intolerance to certain foods
- Drug hypersensitivity
- Reactions to cold, sun or dust
- Seasonal generalized itching
- Tongue
- Variable depending on the underlying constitution. Often normal or pale with a thin coating
- Pulse
- Variable, often floating (浮脉, fú mài) during allergic crises, thin or weak in periods of remission
Tendencies and vulnerabilities
- Chronic allergic rhinitis
- Bronchial asthma
- Atopic eczema and dermatitis
- Food allergies
- Congenital intolerances
- Anaphylaxis in severe cases
- Susceptibility to autoimmune diseases
Diet
Identify and eliminate each person's specific allergenic foods. Strengthen Wei Qi with foods that tonify the Lung and Spleen. Follow an anti-inflammatory, low-histamine diet during flare-ups. Keep a food diary.
Favor
- Astragalus in broth (黄芪, fortifies Wei Qi)
- Local honey (may help desensitize to local pollens)
- Ginger in small amounts (anti-inflammatory)
- Oily fish (anti-inflammatory Omega-3)
- Broccoli and cruciferous vegetables
- Apple (antihistamine quercetin)
- Beet and carrot
- Garlic in small amounts
- White rice and yam (hypoallergenic)
- Turmeric (anti-inflammatory, with caution)
Moderate
- Personal allergenic foods (identify through testing)
- Excess shellfish (high histamine content)
- Alcohol (releases histamine)
- Strong fermented foods (aged cheese, sauerkraut) during flare-ups
- Artificial additives and colorings
- Gluten (if sensitive)
- Dairy (if there is intolerance)
Lifestyle, exercise and emotions
Identify and minimize exposure to specific allergens. Keep the home free of dust and dust mites. Use air purifiers. Strengthen the immune system with regular routines. Manage stress (it worsens allergies).
- Qi Gong to strengthen the Lung and Wei Qi
- Walking in environments free of dust and pollen (avoid pollination periods)
- Swimming in pools without excess chlorine
- Yoga with emphasis on breathing (Pranayama)
- Tai Chi indoors if the outdoors has allergens
Emotional stress aggravates the allergic response. Stress management techniques are part of the treatment. Mindfulness meditation. Accept the constitution without fighting it, learning to live with its limitations.
Seasonal advice
- Spring
- Highest risk of pollen allergies. Start preventive treatment with astragalus and reishi 4-6 weeks before. Keep windows closed on high-pollen days. Shower upon arriving home.
- Summer
- Allergies to insect stings and foods. Be careful with heat, which activates mast cells. Hydration and fresh foods.
- Autumn
- Allergies to molds and spores. Avoid damp areas with decaying leaves. Warm clothing to avoid the cold that weakens Wei Qi.
- Winter
- Allergies to household dust mites (central heating). Wash bedding frequently. Air out the home daily.
Associated herbs and formulas
Herbs that tradition associates
Herbs usually avoided
Formulas
Herbs and formulas must be prescribed by qualified professionals: they can interact with medications.
Acupressure points
- LI4 (He Gu 合谷) - Master point of the face and nose, relieves nasal symptoms
- LU7 (Lie Que 列缺) - Master point of the Lung, opens the nose
- BL13 (Fei Shu 肺俞) - Back Shu point of the Lung, tonifies Wei Qi
- ST36 (Zu San Li 足三里) - Tonifies general Qi and the immune system
- SP6 (San Yin Jiao 三阴交) - Calms allergic skin rashes
Health notice. Educational and study content. It describes concepts of Traditional Chinese Medicine and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional. Needling, medicinal herbs and invasive techniques must be applied by trained professionals. Safety guide.
