SAAT protocol hub · Certified provider
How the SAAT Protocol Works: Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment
The protocol itself — how the single retained auricular needle is placed, what the three-week retention period involves, who it suits, and how it differs from ear seeds and NAET. Condition-specific pages cover Alpha-Gal and MCAS.
A calm, coordinated approach
SAAT (Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment) is a specific auricular acupuncture protocol developed by Dr. Nader Soliman for allergen-driven conditions. A single needle is placed at a condition-specific ear point and retained for approximately three weeks while the nervous system re-regulates the reactivity behind the allergic response.
Dr. Kim Windschauer, AP is a certified SAAT provider at Acupuncture of West Florida in Clearwater. Patients travel from across Tampa Bay, Florida, and the Southeast for the protocol — most commonly for Alpha-Gal syndrome after a Lone Star tick bite, and for Mast Cell Activation Syndrome.
SAAT is not ear seeds, NAET, or standard auricular acupuncture. It is a trained, certified technique with its own point mapping, retention protocol, and follow-up structure.
What we treat
Presentations the SAAT protocol is used for
- Delayed reactions three to six hours after eating red meat or mammal products
- Hives, flushing, GI distress, or near-anaphylaxis with no obvious trigger
- Reactions to fragrance, temperature, exercise, or stress
- A positive Alpha-Gal IgE panel after a tick bite
- Escalating antihistamine use without lasting relief
- An ever-shrinking list of foods you feel safe eating
Why us
Why the certification matters
- Certified SAAT provider trained through the Soliman institute.
- Honest candidacy review before you commit or travel.
- Flat-fee protocol including retention-period check-ins and reassessment.
- Coordinated with your allergist, immunologist, or primary physician.
- Clearwater clinic serving all of Tampa Bay and out-of-state patients.
Our approach
The four stages of the SAAT protocol
Consultation
A call to review your history, testing, and whether SAAT is a realistic fit.
Intake and assessment
Full review of trigger history, labs, medications, and comorbidities before any needle is placed.
SAAT placement
A single auricular needle at the condition-specific point, retained for approximately three weeks.
Retention follow-up
Phone and email check-ins during retention, then reassessment to track real-world reaction changes.
The research
Evidence & guidelines
SAAT was developed by Dr. Nader Soliman and is used clinically for allergen-driven and mast-cell-driven presentations. Reported outcomes in Alpha-Gal patients have been encouraging, though responses vary and SAAT is used alongside — not instead of — the care directed by your physician. Continue avoidance measures and carry prescribed emergency medication until your medical team advises otherwise.
Areas we serve
Serving West Florida
Patients travel to our Clearwater clinic from across Pinellas County and the Tampa Bay region, including:
Questions
Frequently asked questions
What is SAAT?+
SAAT stands for Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment. It is a single-needle auricular acupuncture protocol developed by Dr. Nader Soliman, in which one precisely placed needle is retained in the ear for approximately three weeks. During retention, the nervous system re-regulates the immune reactivity driving the allergic response.
What conditions is SAAT used for?+
SAAT is used for allergen-driven and mast-cell-driven conditions. The most common at our Clearwater clinic are Alpha-Gal syndrome (the tick-borne red-meat allergy) and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). It has also been used for environmental and food allergen sensitivities.
Is SAAT the same as ear seeds, NAET, or regular auricular acupuncture?+
No. SAAT uses a specific point map and a retained needle, and certification requires direct training with the Soliman institute. Ear seeds, NAET, and general auricular acupuncture are different techniques with different protocols and outcomes.
Is Dr. Kim SAAT certified?+
Yes. Dr. Kim Windschauer, AP is a certified SAAT provider — one of a small number in the state of Florida — and also a Certified Neuropuncturist®.
How many SAAT treatments will I need?+
SAAT is a single-treatment protocol with an approximately three-week retention period, followed by structured check-ins. Most patients do not need a repeat treatment; candidacy and expectations are reviewed honestly at your consult.
Does SAAT hurt, and what is the retention period like?+
Placement takes only a few minutes and most patients describe brief pressure rather than pain. The retained needle is small and covered; you can shower and go about normal activity. We ask you to avoid manipulating the ear and to report any irritation.
How much does SAAT cost and do you take insurance?+
SAAT is a flat-fee protocol that includes the treatment, retention-period check-ins, and reassessment. We are a self-pay practice and provide a superbill you may submit for out-of-network reimbursement. HSA/FSA cards are accepted. Call 727-490-6060 for current pricing.
Ready to feel better?
Book a consultation with Dr. Kim Windschauer, AP.
Book Consultation 727-490-6060Visit the clinic
3001 Executive Drive, Suite 150
Clearwater, FL 33762
Mon–Fri · By appointment
Ready to feel better — naturally?
Book a consultation with Dr. Kim Windschauer, AP. We'll listen to what's going on and tell you honestly whether acupuncture can help.
Find out if SAAT is right for you
Book a consultation with Dr. Kim. Honest answer before you book a treatment.