Source: http://..........nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23253122

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture in the treatment for allergic rhinitis.

METHODS:

This study was a multicenter, randomized, parallel-controlled study. Participants were randomized to either the active acupuncture,

sham acupuncture, or waitlist groups. The active and sham acupuncture groups received acupuncture treatment three times per week

for 4weeks. In the sham group, minimal acupuncture at nonacupuncture points was used. The waitlist group did not receive any

acupuncture treatment.

RESULTS:

Of the 238 participants, 97, 94, and 47 individuals were assigned to the active acupuncture, sham acupuncture, and waitlist group,

respectively. After the treatment, the difference in the total nasal symptom score (TNSS) was significantly reduced in the active

acupuncture group compared with the sham acupuncture (difference: -1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -1.96, -0.09, P=0.03) and

waitlist (difference: -2.49, 95% CI: -3.68, -1.29, P<0.0001). The active acupuncture group exhibited a significant change in the total

non-nasal symptom score (TNNSS) compared with the waitlist (difference: -0.78, 95% CI: -1.22, -0.34, P=0.0002), but not the sham

acupuncture group (difference; 0.15, 95% CI: -0.21, 0.5, P=0.56). Both active and sham acupuncture treatments resulted in significant

improvements in TNSS and TNNSS compared to baseline.

CONCLUSION:

Active acupuncture showed a significantly greater effect on symptoms of allergic rhinitis than either sham acupuncture or no active

treatment. The symptoms of allergic rhinitis decreased significantly after treatment in the both acupuncture and sham acupuncture

groups. Acupuncture appears to be an effective and safe treatment for allergic rhinitis.