Acupuncture has been used for centuries as a form of alternative medicine, but did you know that it can also help to strengthen the body’s natural defence system?
In this article, I’ll explore how acupuncture boosts the immune system and why it’s such an effective treatment option.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient form of traditional Chinese medicine. It involves the placement of very thin needles at specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and create a sense of balance.
This practice has been around for thousands of years, and its use has been documented in various medical texts.
Acupuncture can help with a variety of ailments, including pain relief, relaxation, stress reduction, and improved immune system function.
The needles stimulate nerve endings in the skin that carry signals to deeper parts of the body via pathways called meridians.
These meridians are said to be connected to different organs in the body, which helps explain why acupuncture can be used to treat (see also: Can Acupuncture Be Used To Treat Arthritis?)all kinds of physical and emotional issues.
Acupuncture is often used alongside other healing techniques such as massage therapy or herbal remedies to maximise its effectiveness.
It is important to find an experienced acupuncturist so you can ensure you are getting quality treatment that will benefit your health in both short-term and long-term ways.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory suggests that acupuncture can help to boost the immune system.
Acupuncture is believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes and increase circulation, both of which can help to strengthen the immune system.
In TCM, it is believed that energy, known as “qi” or “chi” flows through the body along pathways called meridians.
The needles used in acupuncture are thought to stimulate these pathways and open up channels of energy, allowing qi to flow freely throughout the body.
This helps to balance out any imbalances in qi, which can have a positive effect on overall health and well-being.
Finally, it is also suggested that acupuncture may help regulate hormones in the body which play a role in immunity levels such as corticosteroids and interleukin-2 (IL-2).
By promoting balance in these hormones within the body, it is thought that this could lead to improved immune function thus increasing protection against illness and infection.
How It Works
As we’ve mentioned, acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s nervous system.
This stimulation triggers the release of hormones, which in turn stimulates the production of endorphins and other natural substances that are essential for immune system health.
Additionally, acupuncture can help to reduce stress levels, which is a major factor in weakening the immune system.
Acupuncture also helps by increasing circulation and promoting lymphatic drainage, both of which are important for efficient functioning of the immune system.
Improved circulation helps to move pathogens away from vulnerable parts of the body and boosts overall immunity.
Increasing lymphatic flow helps to flush away toxins and waste products that can weaken the immune system.
Regular sessions of acupuncture can significantly enhance overall wellbeing and strengthen an individual’s defence against illnesses and infections.
It has been proven effective in improving many aspects of physical health such as reducing inflammation, relieving pain, restoring balance to bodily functions, and stimulating energy production.
As a result it increases an individual’s capacity to fight off any illnesses or infections they may encounter more effectively than before.
Types Of Treatments
Acupuncture treatments vary from patient to patient and are tailored to their individual needs.
Patients may receive one type of treatment or a combination of several, depending on their condition.
Common treatments include the use of needles, laser acupuncture, electrical stimulation, cupping and moxibustion.
Needles
Needles, as mentioned earlier, are inserted along specific points in the body known as acupoints. Stimulating these points helps to balance the flow of energy through the body and promotes healing.
Laser
Laser acupuncture is similar to traditional acupuncture but uses low-level lasers instead of needles.
This form of treatment is said to be more comfortable with fewer side effects than needle acupuncture.
Electrical
Electrical stimulation involves attaching electrodes to needles that have been inserted into the skin.
This stimulates nerve endings located near the acupoints and can help alleviate pain and improve circulation.
Cupping
Cupping is another popular treatment used in traditional Chinese medicine which involves placing heated glass cups over specific areas on the body.
The heat creates a suction effect that helps to stimulate blood flow in those areas and promote healing.
Moxibustion
Finally, moxibustion is a technique that involves burning an herb called mugwort over an acupoint or area of skin where discomfort has been felt.
The heat created by this process helps reduce pain and inflammation in that area while strengthening the immune system as well as overall health.
Choosing An Acupuncturist
It’s important to choose the right acupuncturist if you’re looking to boost your immune system with acupuncture.
You should consult an experienced and qualified practitioner. With the many types of treatments available, it can be difficult to know who to trust.
Here are some tips for finding the right acupuncturist for your needs.
Certified And Licensed
First, you’ll want to make sure that the acupuncturist is licensed and certified in their field.
A well-trained and qualified practitioner will have a good understanding of how acupuncture works and its effects on the body.
Ask around for referrals or do research online to find an acupuncturist with good reviews.
Arrange A Meeting
Second, you’ll want to meet with the acupuncturist before making a decision. Take the time to discuss your health history and any current issues you may be experiencing.
This information will help them create a treatment plan that is tailored specifically for you. Ask questions about their experience, techniques they use, and any other concerns you may have.
Don’t be afraid to ask if they have additional qualifications or specialties that could benefit your treatment process as well.
Establish A Relationship
Finally, make sure that you feel comfortable with your chosen acupuncturist before committing to a course of treatment.
The relationship between patient and practitioner should be based on trust – so look for someone who is knowledgeable yet approachable and willing to answer all of your questions honestly.
If possible, try attending a few sessions before deciding whether or not acupuncture is right for you; this will help ensure that both parties are confident in their choice of practitioner before beginning treatment.
Side Effect Of Acupuncture
Although acupuncture is generally considered safe, it can cause a variety of side effects including soreness, bruising, bleeding, and fatigue.
It is important to talk to your doctor before undergoing acupuncture treatment to discuss any potential side effects.
Another potential side effect of acupuncture is the risk of infection.
Since acupuncture involves the insertion of needles into the skin, there is a risk of infection if the needles are not sterile and properly used.
It is important to make sure that the needles are single-use and that the practitioner is experienced in the use of acupuncture.
Additionally, if the needles are not disposed of properly, there is a risk of cross-contamination from patient to patient.
It is important to use a qualified and experienced practitioner to reduce the risk of side effects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, acupuncture is a safe and effective way to boost your immune system.
It works by stimulating the body’s natural healing processes, which helps to strengthen the body’s defences against illness and disease.
With regular treatments, you can expect long-term results that will help keep your body healthy and strong.
I'm Clare, the owner and operator of Off The Couch, where I serve as a qualified Nutrition & Health Coach.
Based in Dublin, Ireland, I offer coaching services both locally and globally, providing personalized strategies in nutrition, stress management, sleep quality, and fitness.
My journey into this field began as I navigated my own chronic illnesses, including early menopause, Interstitial Cystitis, Lyme Disease, and hydrocephalus.
