Cold, Flu and Acupuncture

Many people turn to acupuncture primarily for chronic pain or ongoing health issues, but fewer realize it can also be highly effective during a bout of cold or flu. For centuries, acupuncture has been used to strengthen "Wei Qi"—a concept closely related to boosting the immune system and helping the body fight off pathogens.


Here’s how acupuncture can help:

• It relieves common cold and flu symptoms such as sinus congestion, headaches, and body aches.
• When combined with cupping therapy, acupuncture can help loosen mucus in the lungs.
• Research supports the use of specific acupuncture points—like Zusanli (ST36)—traditionally used to aid recovery from serious illness and combat post-illness fatigue. These points work through several mechanisms:

1.    They enhance natural killer cell activity and help regulate immune-related cytokines.
2.    They reduce inflammation by suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines associated with chronic inflammation.
3.    Stimulating Zusanli activates the sympathetic nervous system and promotes the release of hormones such as      corticosterone and thyroid-stimulating hormone, linking stress regulation with immune balance.
4.    They improve overall systemic resilience by boosting energy metabolism, digestion, and circulation—key factors in supporting a strong immune system and reducing fatigue.

 In addition to acupuncture, other therapies like moxibustion, gua sha, cupping, and infrared heat lamps can be added to further relieve cold and flu symptoms. 

        

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