Cold and Flu Prevention with Acupuncture: Is it possible?

The are so many bugs and viruses out there but how do we keep our defenses strong? There is not just one thing but a combination of doing many things that can help your immune system work optimally. Eating the right foods (using food as medicine), taking specific supplements, hand washing, exercise and sweating daily, and even acupuncture can help with cold and flu prevention.

How does Chinese Medicine view the immune system?

Your health and the strength of your immune system depend upon the quality, quantity and balance of energy called “Wei Qi” that flows within your body. In Chinese medical theory there are pathways “channels” to which this energy flows. This Wei Qi provides an “immune system-like” barrier that protects the body from harmful pathogenic factors that can cause illness and disease. When we are exposed to bad air, germs, and viruses, our first line of defense, according to Chinese medicine is our Wei Qi barrier.

Over time, Wei Qi can become weakened and unbalanced due to many factors: improper diet, emotional stress, grief, sadness, inherited constitution, smoking, and pollution. When our Wei Qi is down, we become prone to allergies, asthma, colds and even skin problems.

What acupuncture points can help?

Rubbing acupuncture points with your finger for 30 – 60 seconds can stimulate and promote the circulation of Qi within your own body.

Here are two common acupuncture points to support your health in winter. These points are located on both feet.

Kidney 6 – This point is directly below the inside anklebone. It is useful for sore throat, calming the mind, insomnia, frequent urination, irregular menstruation, cramps of feet and hands.

Kidney 7 – This point is located about two inches above the inside ankle bone and on the border of the Achilles tendon. This is a useful point for edema, night sweating, diarrhea, dry mouth, low back pain.

At Starting Point Acupuncture, we specialize in chronic and complex conditions such as neuropathy, fibromyalgia, migraines, and infertility. However, we commonly do help many people with natural immune support, digestive health, and natural ways to improve sleep. Give our office a call today at (425) 686-4498 to set-up your initial consultation.