Acupuncture for the Immune System
April 13th, 2009
The immune system is responsible for preventing microbes, toxins, viruses, and bacteria from impairing normal bodily functions. Macrophages, B cells and T-cells, among other specialized cells, combat and defend the body from foreign entities.
A weakened immune system may be caused by exposure to harmful agents, stress, insufficient sleep, or poor nutrition. Once weakened, the immune system is unable to respond effectively to viruses and bacteria. As a result, a person with a weakened immune system may experience frequent infections, allergies, colds, and a general sense of malaise and lethargy.
There are several antibiotic medications for combating bacterial invaders, but when these invaders transition into a virus and become established in the body, the immune system becomes unable to maintain an adequate defense.
Anti-viral medications can strengthen the immune system in many cases; however, these drugs can become toxic if taken over a long period of time. A secondary approach should be considered which can safely and naturally optimize immune support.
Acupuncture has been shown to improve immune function and prevent weakening of the immune system. Acupuncture stimulates responses in the pituitary gland, brain and nerve cells which increase levels of hormones, brain chemicals and proteins that enhance body functions. These hormones, chemicals and proteins strengthen immune system activity and increase endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.
Recent studies on the effect of acupuncture on the immune system have resulted in findings indicating that acupuncture can improve immune system response. The National Institute of Health recognizes acupuncture’s wide range of effects on immune system health, from increasing natural killer cell activity and lymphocyte proliferation in individuals experiencing illness to increasing red and white cell counts in people with compromised immune systems.
Acupuncture also strengthens the immune system by improving sleep patterns and digestion and reducing stress.
Acupuncture is a natural way to strengthen the immune system and is tailored to individual deficiencies and constitution. Your acupuncture physician may recommend Chinese herbal formulas to help prevent and treat infections.
A system of complete health care, acupuncture can be used as a complementary therapy to allopathic health care modalities.
For more information about acupuncture for immune system health call Dr. Richard Browne, Acupuncture Physician, at (305) 595-9500.
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