Immunity from a TCM perspective

According to TCM theories a weakened immune system is the result of a lack of energy – or Qi – energising the organs of the Spleen and Lungs – Is it any wonder that for many of us the first sign of a cold is felt in the Lungs, or feeling off our food (the Spleen is responsible for processing our meals). A compromised immune system can be prompted by a variety of factors including a poor diet and a hectic lifestyle.

TCM treatments do not focus on treating the symptoms but instead nurture your immune system back into balance – Once this has been achieved you will notice long term improvement in other complaints that you may have thought to be unrelated to your immune system such as outbreaks of spots, low mood and fatigue.

Acupuncture to boost immune system

Acupuncture to boost immune system works by activating and balancing the immune system, allowing you to build a strong defense against any diseases you may encounter. Other benefits are:

Boosts the number of immune cells in the body, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and T-cells. It also boosts the body’s defenses and improves immunity in those with immune-related disorders by stimulating these cells to replicate and multiply.

Boost body’s innate energy flow – or Qi – and have the ability to alter the movement of energy into a more positive direction. The direction of the flow of the body’s energy helps clears out stagnation and restore the balance in the body. Many people find the experience of acupuncture to be extremely relaxing. They will usually notice long-lasting changes in their symptoms after just a couple of treatments.

There is a wide and growing body of evidence that acupuncture has a regulating effect on immunity:

• It lowers stress, has an anti-inflammatory effect
• It boosts blood flow which in turn improves the circulation of immunity boosting cells around the body.

Chinese Herbs to boost immune system

Along with acupuncture, Chinese herbs for immune system are used to nourish the flow of and volume of Qi, protect the body from external pathogens, disperse wind, discharge heat and resolve dampness. They are an affordable, drug-free way to boost the immune system at home. There are different Chinese herbs for immune support you can choose depending on your needs. Check the following recommended herbs.

• Astragalus, also known as Huang Qi , is one of the most important uses to improve the functioning of the immune system. TCM puts a lot of emphasis on vital energy, known as Qi. Astragalus is believed to help in getting the benefits of Qi. It is popular also because of its anti-inflammatory property and antioxidant property. Astragalus and Licorice These can be added into soups or brewed into teas and taken once or twice weekly to boost immunity. Learn more.
• Dong Quai is also an effective Chinese herbs to improve immune system and support your body’s organ functioning. It is well known as Qi booster and Blood tonic since it modulates the immune system and promotes blood circulation. Learn more.
• Turmeric powder is excellent at boosting your immunity and reducing inflammation. One very effective means of ingesting this is to mix a tablespoon of turmeric powder to a mug of warming milk. Bring this to the boil and adding some honey to taste. Not only is it delicious and warming but it also has a variety of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Tips to boost your immunity

The most important thing is to adopt a healthy lifestyle along with Chinese medicine for immunity. We all know that too many takeaways, late nights and not exercising enough makes us feel bad – so let’s start to listen to our body when it starts to complain and make some very simple and effective changes to that way that we live our lives. Not only will your body heave a sigh of relief but now that your immune system is given a welcome break you will start to feel healthy for longer periods of time: Every part of your body will function better when it is protected from unnecessary toxins and bolstered by healthy living practices such as:

1. Eat a diet rich in fruit and vegetables. Whole plant foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes are rich in nutrients and antioxidants that may give you an upper hand against harmful pathogens. During the winter months in particular it is important to eat lots of warming stews and casseroles and to refrain from eating too much raw food. Foods like these are easier for your Stomach and Spleen to process.
2. You might have noticed foods such as Keffir, Kombucha and Sauerkraut popping up it the food aisles. There is a good reason for this: Fermented food such as these are rich in beneficial bacteria called probiotics, which populate your digestive tract and promote a well functioning immune system.
3. If you have got out of the habit of exercising regularly because it’s too cold, why not dig out one of your old fitness videos and play along in your pajamas. The important thing is to move your body regularly to boost the flow of blood around your body. If you make exerting fun you will be more likely to stick at it so approach exercise with a positive attitude and you will be rewarded!
4. Sleep and immunity are closely tied and getting adequate rest may boost your natural immunity. If you’re having trouble sleeping, try to limit the amount of screen time you have for an hour before bed.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We can’t guarantee the treatment result, as the symptoms of conditions are unpredictable and vary greatly from person to person. The treatment length and recovery time also varies for individual. Please visit our clinics website: GinSen where a specialists will discuss your care and provide a consultation, and the treatment will be designed to meet your individual needs.