We all know the immune system and its importance in the prevention of sickness by fighting off viruses and bacteria. But what is the immune system exactly? It is not an organ but rather a collection of various cells which act to protect the body from harmful invaders such as microbes, bacteria, particles, and toxic compounds. Boosting the immune system refers to allowing the immune system cells to readily do their job. If the body is in a balanced state, this will be much easier. In Chinese Medicine the focus is not on strengthening the immune system specifically, but to restore balance to the whole body so the immune system can function optimally. Therefore, we see a weakened immune system as being a result of Qi deficiency in the Lungs and the Spleen, two organs directly correlated with the immune system according to Chinese medicine theory. Inadequate diet, hectic lifestyle, and genetic predisposition are all factors that affect the immune system and its functionality.
Here are some recommendations to help keep your immune system in top shape during cold and flu season:
1. ACUPUNCTURE
Even though germs, bacteria, and viruses are everywhere – in the food we eat, the air we breathe, and the water we drink. Illness occurs when certain organ systems are weak and out of balance. Acupuncture is an effective way to support the body’s self-regulating, self-balancing and healing systems.
Acupuncture works by rebalancing the body’s systems, regulating the body’s healing energies and enhancing the immune system. Chinese Medicine studies have suggested that using acupuncture as a preventative approach to colds and flu can reduce the incidence of upper respiratory tract infection and shorten the duration of the illness.
2. HERBS
For thousands of years, all over the world, humans have used herbs as medicine. Herbs are used to both strengthen the immune system and to alleviate symptoms of illness. We encourage our patients to have herbal remedies on hand to assist them in the prevention and at the on-set of illness. Here are some of our favorite formulas that we use and recommend for the symptoms of the common cold and flu:
Gan Mao Ling: ‘Gan mao ling’ translates to “Common Cold Effective-Remedy”. This powerful herbal formula is best taken at the first signs of feeling sick and can shorten the duration of cold or flu-like symptoms when taken at the earliest stages.
Echinacea: Echinacea is used in herbal preparations to enhance healthy immune system function. It does this by balancing the activity of the immune system. As Echinacea is traditionally used to enhance and modulate general immune function, it can also support an immune response that may follow the temporary exposure to seasonal stressors.
Echinacea’s immune effects support and maintain the health of the upper respiratory tract especially where it may provide temporary relief of mild irritation and discomfort in the throat, such as a dry throat or a hoarse voice.
MediHerb Herbal Throat Spray: MediHerb Herbal Throat Spray contains soothing herbs and essential oils to support healthy throat tissue and mucous membranes. The potent combination of sage leaf, calendula flower, echinacea root, myrrh, and clove supports the throat health and upper gastrointestinal tissue, soothes the mucous membranes of the throat, relieves sore throats, and promotes oral health. Therefore, Throat Spray can be used as both a preventative and for healing symptoms affecting the throat.
3. LIFESTYLE
Keep your immune system strong by utilizing the healthy habits we all know:
- Drink plenty of glasses of water daily.
- Exercise regularly.
- Eat a healthy diet and avoid excessive sugar.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Enjoy fun and relaxing activities to help reduce stress.
4. SUPPLEMENTS
Your immune system needs certain vitamins and minerals to work properly. If your diet doesn’t include adequate amounts of these, your immune system will not be able to function as well. You might be more likely to get infections, and you might not recover as quickly. Consuming whole food supplements is an effective way to maintain these vitamins and minerals which keep your immune system functioning optimally.
Olson Acupuncture and Nutritional Healing carries a large variety of whole food supplements that support immune health including Standard Process Immuplex, Children’s Immune, and Congaplex. Each formula focuses on different aspects of the immune system and responses to symptoms. Talk with your practitioner if you are experiencing symptoms of cold or flu and we can determine which formula would be best for you.
Olson Acupuncture and Nutritional Healing is here to help keep you healthy and strong during cold and flu season, and all times of year. As always, reach out if you or your family is in need of our support.
In good health,
The Team at Olson Acupuncture and Nutritional Healing
