Acupuncture Improves Your Immunity
Every time the seasons shift, it seems like someone around you comes down with a cold, and you start wondering if you’re next. Some people feel that shift every single time the weather changes.
A strong immune system is your best defense, and acupuncture is one of the most effective natural ways to support it. Acupuncture can help you avoid getting sick in the first place, and if you do catch something, it can help you recover faster.
Acupuncture Has Long Been Used to Keep People Healthy
Historically, acupuncturists in China served the emperor’s court and were only paid so long as the emperor stayed healthy, a strong incentive to focus on prevention, not just treatment. That emphasis on keeping the body well, rather than just treating illness after it strikes, has remained central to acupuncture ever since.
Acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s own ability to defend against pathogens, in part by reducing stress and inflammation and supporting immune function.
In Chinese medicine, we describe this as acupuncture stimulating the body to produce more Qi, the body’s vital energy. Qi powers all of the body’s activities, including fighting off illness. Acupuncture also improves circulation, keeping everything moving and functioning well.
The Best Acupuncture Point for Immunity
Each acupuncture point has its own specific healing properties. One of the most effective points for supporting immunity, overall health, and digestion is Zu San Li, Stomach 36. Stimulating this point can produce meaningful effects throughout the body.
Another highly effective traditional approach is applying moxibustion at this point daily during seasonal transitions, or for 100 days if you’re managing a chronic illness. Laboratory research supports this practice: a study analyzing gene activity at the ST36 site found that moxibustion triggered a wide range of gene expression changes, and under inflammatory conditions, most of these changes involved immune-related pathways, including genes tied to antigen processing and natural killer cell activity.¹
Acupressure at Stomach 36 is also a great way to support your immunity at home. Massage the point for 30 seconds on each side, once a day. Traditionally, it’s said that consistent massage of this point for 100 days brings noticeable improvements in health.
Learn More
For a deeper dive into specific herbs, additional points, and home remedies for cold prevention, see my full guide to boosting immunity and preventing colds with Chinese medicine.
Stay Well Year-Round
A resilient immune system means fewer sick days and a faster recovery when illness does strike. Acupuncture works with your body to build that resilience naturally.
Schedule an appointment or call 212-319-5757.
Reference
- Yin HY, Tang Y, Lu SF, Luo L, Wang JP, Liu XG, Yu SG. Gene Expression Profiles at Moxibustioned Site (ST36): A Microarray Analysis. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013;2013:890579.