A new research review published in the International Journal of General Medicine suggests acupuncture may be a useful tool in the management of allergic disorders like systemic mastocytosis (SM) by affecting key immune cells and inflammatory processes.
Researchers analyzed data from 365 peer-reviewed human and animal studies published between 2010 and 2025. While their focus was on allergic conditions, the authors placed particular emphasis on mast cells as central regulators of inflammation, immune signaling and mediator release. They noted that therapies targeting mast cell activation represent a key strategy for alleviating allergic disease.
What is a mast cell?
Mast cells are specialized cells of the immune system that mediate inflammatory responses and allergic reactions. They are found in the body’s connective tissue.
According to the review, acupuncture appears to inhibit mast cell degranulation (the release of chemicals). This results in lower circulating levels of histamine and immunoglobulin E (IgE), both central to allergic reactions.
Researchers also found that acupuncture influenced the body’s immune “messenger” chemicals, known as cytokines. Across multiple studies, acupuncture treatment was linked to reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines, alongside increases in anti-inflammatory cytokines, which may help reduce mast cell–driven immune responses.
Learn more about SM causes and risk factors
The review also reported improvements in breathing, skin inflammation and nasal symptoms in people with allergic conditions. While the review does not directly address SM, the authors suggest that therapies capable of stabilizing mast cells and suppressing inflammatory signaling may warrant further investigation.
However, the authors note that research in this area is still limited and more studies are needed to better understand the role acupuncture may play in managing allergic conditions. Still, they suggest it may be worth exploring as a complementary therapy to help manage symptoms related to mast cell activation.
“Overall, acupuncture holds significant research value and clinical prospects in regulating mast cells and their application in allergic diseases,” the study authors concluded. “Although current research findings remain inconsistent, further exploration and standardized studies may enable acupuncture to become an effective complementary approach in the treatment of allergic conditions.”
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