Author: Pure Body Health Victoria
Are there immune-boosting benefits of acupuncture?
The short answer? Absolutely.
The long answer? Well, we explore that in depth below!
First: What is Acupuncture?
For the uninitiated, acupuncture is an ancient alternative medicine philosophy that has been studied and practiced for over 2,500 years. It is a safe and effective treatment that is used both alone and in conjunction with myriad diagnoses, such as, but not limited to, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, fatigue, dental pain, eye problems, irritable bowel syndrome, menopause, nausea, and seasonal affective disorder.
Acupuncture utilizes a variety of techniques:
Acupressure
Acupressure is the manual application of pressure to targeted points on the body by a professional, typically via their fingertips.
Cupping
An ancient method of alternative method used to non-invasively target general body pain, inflammation, and blood flow concerns, cupping is the act of putting specialized cuts atop of targeted points along the body in order to create suction. It is classified as a type of deep-tissue massage.
Moxibustion
Moxibustion is an external treatment based on alternative Chinese medicine that aids in blood flow and involves carefully burning moxa (a tool made of ground mugwort leaves) directly or indirectly to the body’s acupuncture points as a stimulant.
Infrared
Last but certainly not least is infrared light therapy, which works alongside acupuncture to flush unwanted toxins from the body and increase overall circulation. It is also specifically used on clients who have concerns surrounding stiff muscles and/or joint pain.
How Do the Benefits of Acupuncture Boost the Immune System?
Due to acupuncture’s ability to stimulate the body’s immune response, it has been linked to the body’s improved ability to bounce back and better fight future infections.
In fact, studies have shown acupuncture’s tangible effectiveness in improving the body’s long-term immune function via bolstering white blood cell and T-cell numbers for up to one month post-treatment.
Acupuncture’s other immune-boosting benefit? Soothing common symptoms that often run down one’s immune system, especially over the winter months. These include chronic anxiety, stress, and poor sleep quality.
The top acupuncture points for immune-bolstering are:
- GB-20, located at the back of the head
- KI-27, located directly below the collarbone
- ST-36, located on the shin
- LI-4, located between the thumb and index finger
- LU-7, located at the base of the thumb
Are There Limitations to Acupuncture’s Efficacy?
Yes. As detailed on our dedicated acupuncture page, there are specific conditions which require a professional judgement before acupuncture can be applied in order to ensure client safety. These are:
- Sepsis
- Notifiable diseases
- Undiagnosed seizures
- Endocarditis
- Pregnancy (in the first trimester)
- Having a pacemaker
- The use of anticoagulants
- Active infections
- Skin lesions
- Lymphoedema
When in doubt? Discuss your health condition with your health professional ahead of booking your acupuncture appointment.
Have Further Questions About How Acupuncture Can Benefit You?
Reach out to the Pure Body Health Victoria team today to learn how acupuncture can work alongside your lifestyle efforts to support a healthy immune system.
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