Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Help with Migraines and Allergies?

Chinese herbal medicine

Hello Dr.
Lin,
I would like to inquire if peppermint can treat frequent migraines, which I believe are caused by work-related stress and tension headaches.
Is it safe to directly chop it and make juice with honey? Would there be any hygiene issues with this method? I have researched some information online and would like to confirm.
Additionally, I have another question regarding my 10-year-old son, who has inherited symptoms of nasal allergies.
He has been taking Western medicine since childhood, and I am concerned about the amount he has been taking.
Recently, when he had a severe sinus infection, I took him to see a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, hoping to use herbal medicine for treatment.
After two visits, there hasn't been any noticeable improvement, and he has been sleeping poorly at night, so I had to revert to Western medicine.
Dr.
Lin, how long does it typically take for herbal medicine to show effectiveness? Does it require a lot of patience to see results? Furthermore, since my son does not take powdered medicine, he is prescribed pills instead.
Does this affect the efficacy of the treatment? Thank you for your patient responses!
Sincerely,
A concerned mother

JOJO, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/02/27

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

1.
Peppermint can relieve wind-heat headaches, but for hygiene reasons related to parasites, it should be boiled in water, cooled, and sweetened with honey for safer consumption.

2.
Allergic rhinitis is a constitutional issue that generally does not heal easily in the short term and requires long-term management.
The duration of treatment depends on the individual's constitution and the physician's expertise and methods.
Typically, personal management in this regard takes about three months or more.

3.
According to the regulations of the National Health Insurance in Traditional Chinese Medicine, herbal pills are not provided; only powdered medications are allowed to comply with the regulations.

Best wishes,
Dr.
Lin Ching-Chung, Director of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Fengyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2007/02/27

More Info

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including migraines and allergies. In your case, you are considering the use of mint (金錢薄荷) for treating recurrent migraines, which you suspect are related to work stress and fatigue. Additionally, you are exploring TCM options for your 10-year-old son, who has a history of allergic rhinitis and has not seen significant improvement with Western medicine.

Can Mint Help with Migraines?
Mint, particularly in its various forms such as peppermint, is known for its soothing properties. It contains menthol, which can help relieve tension and improve blood circulation, potentially alleviating headache symptoms. Some studies suggest that peppermint oil may be effective in reducing the severity of headaches when applied topically. However, the efficacy of mint juice in treating migraines specifically is less well-documented in clinical studies.

Regarding your method of consuming mint by making fresh juice and mixing it with honey, it is generally safe as long as you ensure proper hygiene during preparation. Fresh mint leaves can be washed thoroughly to remove any contaminants. However, be cautious with the quantity, as excessive consumption of mint may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.

TCM for Allergies and Sinusitis in Children
As for your son, TCM often takes a holistic approach to treat conditions like allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. The duration of treatment can vary significantly depending on the individual’s response to the herbs and the severity of the condition. Generally, TCM practitioners recommend a course of treatment lasting several weeks to months to see significant improvements. It is essential to have patience, as TCM aims to address the root cause of the condition rather than just alleviating symptoms.

In TCM, the treatment may involve a combination of herbal remedies, acupuncture, and dietary recommendations. If your son is not comfortable with powdered herbs, tablets can be an effective alternative, although the absorption and efficacy may differ slightly. Tablets are often formulated to ensure a specific dosage and can be easier for children to take.

Conclusion
In summary, while mint may provide some relief for migraines, its effectiveness can vary from person to person. It is essential to maintain good hygiene when preparing fresh juices. For your son’s allergies, TCM can be a viable option, but it requires time and patience for the treatment to take effect. Consulting with a qualified TCM practitioner can help tailor a treatment plan that suits your son’s specific needs and preferences. Always consider discussing any new treatments with your healthcare provider to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your situation.

Similar Q&A

Natural Remedies for Chronic Migraines: Exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello! I have been suffering from chronic migraines that severely affect my daily life, often leading to mood disturbances that impact my friends and colleagues. I consulted a neurologist, but the doctor did not perform any tests; they only listened to my complaints and diagnosed...

Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the treatment of migraines is not as straightforward as in Western medicine, which often relies on fixed analgesic and muscle relaxant medications. TCM involves a more complex process of pulse diagnosis and inquiry, assessing the balance of ...

Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Help Manage Allergic Rhinitis?

Dr. Ma: If I have allergic rhinitis, can traditional Chinese medicine help control it?

Dr. Ma Yishi reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Hello, Hui: Allergic rhinitis can be managed with traditional Chinese medicine. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Chinese medicine outpatient department at Changhua Hospital. We care about you.

Managing Nasal Allergies: Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Provide Relief?

Due to pulsatile tinnitus, Western medicine has determined that it is caused by nasal congestion and has prescribed a nasal spray. If I do not want to use medication long-term, can traditional Chinese medicine or acupuncture cure it? Are there any dietary considerations? Addition...

Dr. Zhang Weidong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Hello, Yi-Fang: I apologize, but the information you provided is too limited for me to offer any advice. Allergic rhinitis can be treated with traditional Chinese medicine, and there are effective treatments available even during the current cold weather. Whether it can be comple...

Managing Asthma and Allergies: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello: I have had an allergic constitution since childhood, with asthma starting at the age of 2, making me a frequent visitor to the emergency room. Although my condition has improved with age, it has never completely resolved. Additionally, I suffer from seasonal keratitis and ...

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
You may have allergic rhinitis, which is often caused by environmental factors related to autoimmune responses. In my clinical observations, the most common triggers are air conditioning, dust mites, and polluted air. In traditional Chinese medicine, treatment is often tailored t...