Did you know acupuncture can enhance your immune system? Not only does it increase blood and lymphatic circulation to help your body clear out infection, but it actually increases immune function.
The process of acupuncture involves inserting very thin needles (about a fifth the width of a sewing needle!) into various specific points around the body. It is usually painless as the needles go in, and often quite relaxing while they stay in. To maximize comfort, I use Seirin needles, which have a special silicone coating to ensure a smooth insertion through the skin.
Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years in the Eastern world, but only recently has its effect been studied on a biochemical level. In one study, participants’ blood samples were taken before and after acupuncture. After their session, certain types of their white blood cells (our infection-fighting cells) had increased in their ability to find and fight infections. Not only did their immunity get boosted within 72 hours, but the effects were observed even one month later!
In addition to boosting your immune cell function, acupuncture is also a wonderful tool to improve sleep, reduce stress and decrease anxiety. When our bodies start to get rundown from poor sleep, increased stress, or heightened anxiety, it makes us more vulnerable to illnesses. Helping support your entire body and mind wellness is key in making sure your immune system is able to work as hard as it needs to.
Acupuncture is best used to strengthen the immune system as a preventative measure, but it can also be used to treat symptoms acutely. Here are some great points you can use at home through acupressure to help relieve symptoms:
- Lung 7: helping stimulate lung function, especially good for coughs
- Large Intestine 20: particularly good for relieving sinus congestion
- Pericardium 6: excellent for reducing nausea
- Large Intestine 4: supportive in reducing headaches and pressure
While acupuncture is a wonderful tool to support your system before any infection hits, as well as treat symptoms if they do, there are some times that acupuncture may not be recommended. Always be sure to check with your Naturopathic Doctor or Acupuncturist to make sure it’s safe for you!
Written by Dr. Laura Smith, Naturopathic Doctor. Dr Laura has a clinical focus in women’s health including fertility and pre/postnatal health. She currently lives and works in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Disclaimer – Everything shared is for informative purposes only. It is not intended for assessment, diagnosis or treatment purposes. If you feel there needs to be further investigation, please seek out a qualified health care professional for a proper assessment.