Viruses, germs, and bacteria are everywhere. They are in the food we eat, the air we breathe, and the water we drink.
According to Chinese medicine, they do not cause disease. When a certain organ system is already weak and unable to resist outside invasion, it is, therefore, prone to attack by germs, such as viruses and bacteria. Illness and disease can only result when our body provides a hospitable environment.
For example, let’s say you inhaled the influenza virus. Just because these germs are present, does not mean you will get the flu. There are several factors involved such as the health of your lungs, the vitality of your immune system, and your overall health.
Germs gather and thrive only in weakened parts of the body. When there is an imbalance of Qi, the normal functions of your body will ultimately be affected. This can change the normal immune system response and lead to illness.
A disease requires both a pathogen and a host. These nasty critters can only survive and flourish if circumstances are ripe. When the germs are strong, but the environment of the host (you) is stronger, the disease will be resisted. If the host is weak, however, then your environment can become a hospitable refuge for viruses, germs, bacteria, and other microbes to set up shop.
Meridian channels control the flow of healing energy throughout your entire body, including your organs. The function (health) of your lungs and the strength of your immune system all depend upon the quality, quantity, and balance of Qi which flows within your meridian channels.
The “true cure” of disease is simply NOT to kill germs, but to reestablish and build up the body’s amount of healing Qi. This will ultimately provide an adequate amount of Qi in order to restore the integrity of your meridian and organ system. Germs simply cannot attack a strong and healthy body.
Acupuncture for Cold Prevention: Chinese Medicine treats the common cold by first focusing on the immune system or Wei Qi. To prevent colds, the Wei Qi needs to be strong. Regular acupuncture treatments can help boost the immune system while balancing hormones that can also play into how the body functions to fight off a cold.
Acupuncture Points for Cold Prevention:
Large Intestine 11 – This point can be found bilaterally at the outer end of the elbow crease created when the arm is flexed. Large intestine 11 is used to decrease inflammation throughout the body, while also stimulating immune function.
Stomach 36 – Stomach 36 known as the Longevity Point, is located bilaterally on the lower outer leg. It can be found 1 finger-breadth from the border of the upper tibia and about 3 thumb-breadths below the lower border of the knee cap. This point boosts the energy of the body and stimulates the immune function.
Ren 17 – This point is located in the middle of the chest, between the two nipples, directly on top of the breast bone. Ren 17 stimulates the thymus gland which helps resist infection.
If you or a loved one are looking for help with cold and flu symptoms, you’ve got nothing to lose if you give Chinese Medicine a shot!
