Frequently Asked Questions

  • Acupuncture is a form of traditional East Asian medicine that uses very thin, sterile needles placed at specific points on the body. Treatment is tailored to the individual and may be used to support pain relief, nervous system regulation, sleep, stress, digestion, and other health concerns.

  • Acupuncture needles are very thin filiform needles (at least 10 can fit into the hole of a standard hypodermic needle) usually made of surgical grade stainless steel, so insertion usually causes very little discomfort.

  • Your initial appointment is approximately 75 minutes and begins with a conversation about your health history, current concerns and treatment goals. Depending on what brings you in, your visit may also include pulse and tongue assessment, palpation and other clinical evaluation.

    Your acupuncture treatment is then customized to you and may incorporate additional techniques such as cupping, guasha or electroacupuncture when appropriate.

    Follow-up appointments are approximately 60 minutes.

  • Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a licensed, trained practitioner using sterile, single-use needles. Side effects are usually mild and may include temporary soreness, bruising, or lightheadedness.

    Clean Needle Technique (CNT) is required and all acupuncturists at Wildflower Acupuncture have obtained their CNT Certification.

Acupuncture

SAAT Allergy Treatment

  • Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment (SAAT) is a specialized form of auricular (ear) acupuncture designed to help regulate abnormal immune responses. It is most commonly used for food allergies, environmental allergies, chemical sensitivities, and immune-driven conditions by calming the nervous system and retraining how the body reacts to specific triggers.

  • SAAT works through the ear, which has a direct neurological connection to the brain and immune system. Tiny acupuncture needles are placed in precise points on the ear to interrupt maladaptive immune responses.
    Over time, this helps the body stop overreacting to substances it previously identified as threats.

  • Unlike traditional acupuncture treatments that use multiple body points and require frequent visits, SAAT is highly targeted:

    • Uses very small needles placed only in the ear

    • Needles are left in place for 3-4 weeks

    • Focuses on specific allergens or triggers

    • Often requires far fewer sessions

  • People commonly seek SAAT for:

    • Food allergies & food sensitivities

    • Seasonal & environmental allergies (pollen, mold, dust, pets)

    • Chemical sensitivities & fragrances

    • Histamine intolerance

    • Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)

    • Alpha-Gal Syndrome

    • Chronic immune reactivity with no clear cause

    Each allergen or trigger is addressed individually.

  • Most people report minimal discomfort. The needles are extremely small, and once placed, many patients forget they are even there.

  • Typically one needle per allergen or trigger. Some people may have more than one needle placed, depending on what is being treated.

  • The needles usually remain in the ear for 3–4 weeks. They are secured so you can continue daily activities, shower, and sleep normally.

  • Responses to SAAT vary. Some patients notice changes during the treatment period, while others notice changes more gradually.

    Because every person and every allergen is different, there is no guaranteed timeline or response.

  • Responses vary from person to person. Some patients report long-lasting changes following treatment of a specific allergen, while others may experience changes in sensitivity over time.

    New allergies or sensitivities can also develop and are evaluated separately.

  • Yes. When performed by a properly trained and certified provider, SAAT is considered safe and minimally invasive.
    Side effects are uncommon and usually mild (temporary tenderness or ear sensitivity).

  • SAAT may be appropriate for:

    • People who have not found relief with medications

    • Individuals looking for non-pharmaceutical allergy treatment

    • Patients with complex or unexplained immune reactions

    A consultation is important to determine if SAAT is right for you.

Still have questions?

If you don’t see your question answered above, send me a note and I’ll be happy to help.