Jessica Belknap, LAc – Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine
When concerned with maintaining good overall health Traditional Chinese Medicine, and acupuncture in particular, are the best and least invasive ways to boost the immune system. The body’s immune system is comprised of cells, tissues and organs all orchestrated to help repel foreign invaders like bacteria, parasites and other microbes that can cause infections and lead to illness. Stress, lack of sleep, chronic illness and environmental hazards contribute to a weakened immune system.
Understanding Wei Qui
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the immune system is referred to as Wei Qi (“way chee”). The Wei Qi is closely associated with the internal organs, specifically focused on the lungs. When the energy of the lungs is well-balanced, Wei Qi is strong and can easily fight off any potential health threats. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the lungs oversee the skin and breathing. When lung function is deficient or compromised the body becomes vulnerable to pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. Common symptoms of decreased Wei Qi or weakened immunity manifest as coughing, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, sore throat, headaches, fever and possibly chills.
How acupuncture gives a boost to immunity
In natural medicine Wei Qi support comes through the avenues of acupuncture and herbal formulas. Acupuncture needles are placed on specific points of the body to help to boost immunity while also balancing hormones. Acupuncture points focused on Wei Qi in this way work to strengthen the circulation of energy as well as the blood. This triggers the body’s own natural defense mechanisms, an important element in the prevention of illness while supporting recovery.
The importance of T-cells
Research shows that routine acupuncture treatments can act as a subtle signal to the brain to release T-cells in the body which are essential in the fight against bacteria and viruses. When placed at strategic locations on the body acupuncture needles instigate the body’s immune response to send T-cells and white blood cells to fight off potential invaders. Once triggered through acupuncture this enhanced immune response can last for several days, optimizing the body’s immunity and promoting health.
Stress relief with acupuncture
Another benefit of routine acupuncture treatments is reduced stress. When a person becomes stressed or feels anxious, the immune system’s ability to fight off antigens can become compromised, making us are more susceptible to infections. The stress hormone corticosteroid can overwhelm and dampen the effectiveness of the body’s immune system. Acupuncture treatments work to soothe and reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety, thereby speeding up the healing process and optimizing the immune response system. In this way acupuncture helps to stimulate and balance the immune system to create a lasting defense against pathogens that may otherwise cause ill health. When added to the practices of proper sleep and nutrition, drinking lots of water and mild exercise, Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture specifically can help keep the body’s immune system healthy.