How Acupuncture Supports Immune Function - Natural Health

Acupuncture, a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been used for thousands of years to support overall health and well-being. Research has looked at how acupuncture may affect immune function, and in Chinese medicine it is traditionally used to support the body's own defences. Here's how it is traditionally used:

How acupuncture is thought to affect immune function

Regulating Immune Cells: Acupuncture has been found to influence the activity of various immune cells, such as T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, macrophages, and neutrophils. In Chinese medicine, stimulating specific acupoints is thought to help balance and coordinate the body's own response.

1. Modulating Cytokines: Cytokines are small proteins that play a crucial role in immune response and inflammation. Research has looked at whether acupuncture affects the production and release of cytokines, and in Chinese medicine it is used where there is ongoing inflammation.

   
   

2. Enhancing Immune Organs: Acupuncture can stimulate and support the function of immune organs, such as the spleen, thymus, and lymph nodes. By promoting the optimal functioning of these organs, acupuncture is traditionally used to support the body's own defences.

   
   

3. Reducing Stress: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Acupuncture is thought to influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the release of endorphins, and many people find it helps them feel less stressed and anxious. By managing stress, acupuncture indirectly supports immune function.

   
   

4. Improving Sleep: Quality sleep is essential for a healthy immune system. Acupuncture can help improve sleep quality by addressing underlying issues, such as insomnia, anxiety, or pain. Better sleep contributes to a stronger immune system and better overall health.

   
   

5. Stimulating Specific Acupoints: Certain acupoints are traditionally used to support immune function. Some commonly used acupoints to support immune function include:

   • Stomach 36 (ST36 or Zusanli): A powerful point for strengthening the body's Qi and supporting the immune system.

   • Large Intestine 11 (LI11 or Quchi): This point is often used to release pathogens, reduce fever, and support immune function.

   • Lung 7 (LU7 or Lieque): This point is beneficial for strengthening the body's defensive Qi and supporting the immune system.

   • Spleen 6 (SP6 or Sanyinjiao): This point is used to tonify the spleen and support immune function.

     
     

6. Preventive Care: Regular acupuncture treatments can help maintain a strong immune system and prevent illnesses. By addressing energy imbalances and supporting overall health, acupuncture can help the body resist infections and recover more quickly from illnesses.

   
   

7. Adjunctive Therapy: Acupuncture can be used as an adjunctive therapy to support conventional medical treatments for various immune-related conditions, such as allergies, asthma, and autoimmune disorders. By combining acupuncture with other treatments, patients may experience improved outcomes and a stronger immune system.

Seeing a practitioner

To find out whether acupuncture might suit you, consult a licensed acupuncturist or TCM practitioner. They can provide personalised treatments tailored to your specific needs and health concerns.

Care Cure practitioners are skilled Chinese medicine practitioners and herbalists.

Please avail of our free consultation online or at our clinics in the Merrion Shopping Centre, Dublin 4 and 53 George's Street Lower, Dun Laoghaire. We offer a full range of traditional Chinese medicine treatments including acupuncture, acupressure, cupping, herbal remedies, heat therapy, moxibustion and reflexology. We supply a wide range of Chinese herbal remedies and health products.

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