We take our immune system for granted without knowing it! Because it is doing a remarkable job protecting us against illnesses, we tend to forget the importance of our immune system—not until we get sick. Relying on over-the-counter medication to cure your symptoms is not always a great solution!
Most of the medications used for overactive immune system disorders like allergies, and autoimmune diseases like arthritis, are often treated only as symptoms rather than addressing the underlying illness.
On the other hand, Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM supports a more holistic approach that everyone can experience, such as acupuncture for immune system boosting.
TCM theory about “Wei Qi.”
Traditional Chinese Medicine believes in the energy that circulates beneath our skin. This energy is called Wei Qi (pronounced as wey-chee) and is controlled by our lungs. It is perceived as the first line of defense against external pathogens that could harm our bodies. If the Wei Qi inside the body is weak, our entire well-being will be vulnerable to different infections or illnesses.
Wei Qi also regulates sweating by controlling the opening of pores on the skin. Ideally, the pores should remain closed to prevent pathogenic factors from entering our bodies. The wind, cold, heat, and damp are considered pathogenic factors that can cause diseases.
The importance of a healthy immune system
Wei Qi is like the immune system in conventional medicine. And like the Wei Qi, the immune system is responsible for protecting our body from bacteria and viruses. The absence of it will make our body susceptible to any illnesses. Other factors that could weaken our immune system are extreme stress, poor diet, and lack of quality sleep. That’s why having a healthy and properly functioning system is vital for us to survive in our daily activities since many harmful bacteria and viruses are floating just around us.
The effects of acupuncture in the immune system
Acupuncture therapy keeps the harmony of the two energies inside our bodies called the “yin” and “yang.” It involves the inserting of very thin needles through the skin at strategic points of the body. The results are various body system stimulation, pain relief, sleep improvement, digestive function, and sense of well-being.
Many research revealed that acupuncture for immune system helps regulate the body’s systems through the following:
- Increases red cell, white cell, and T-cell counts
- Enhances the humoral and cellular immunity of people who have acupuncture and autoimmune disorders
- Stimulates nerves, muscle, and tissue to correct imbalances inside the body.
Other ways to strengthen the immune system
Acupuncture is one of many ways to enhance We Qi inside the body. So, aside from acupuncture and autoimmune disorders, you can strengthen your Wei Qi by doing the following tips:
- Have a regular exercise outside the house.
- Take a cold shower once a day.
- Eat nutritious food in an appropriate amount.
- Get regular and quality sleep.
- Manage stress effectively.
- Prevent from taking antibiotics, antihistamines, and sinus medication.
- Drink herbal tea
Need an acupuncture service for your immune system? Visit Marchand Acupuncture today! Call us at (303) 819-9967 for appointments.