Your immune system is your body's security and defense system designed to protect itself from disease. The cells, tissues and organs that comprise it help target and fight foreign invaders like bacteria, parasites and other microbes that can cause infections and illness. Stress, lack of sleep and other common conditions can contribute to a weakened immune system, which can make your body vulnerable to illness and disease. Acupuncture can strengthen a weakened immune system by increasing red and white cell counts, T-cell count and enhancing humoral and cellular immunity in patients with immune-related illness.

 

A compromised or dysfunctional immune system is a major component of most chronic diseases. Poor nutrition, stress and exposure to harmful agents all lead to a declining immune system. Once compromised, a weak immune system results in frequent colds, allergies, and reoccurring infections.

Immunity related disorders include:

• Common colds

• Allergies

• Asthma

• Chronic fatigue

• Hepatitis

• AIDS

• Autoimmune disease

• Cancer

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Multiple sclerosis

• Psoriasis

• Immune deficiency syndrome

​

Western medicine for overactive immune system disorders, such as allergies and autoimmune diseases like arthritis, often include treatments aimed at suppressing the immune system through medication. Although that method is useful for limiting symptoms and managing pain, it does not result in a cure. Side effects and other adverse symptoms may develop after long-term use of these suppressive drugs.

​

Acupuncture, however, can regulate immune function and treat the underlying cause of the disease by reducing symptoms, speeding up the healing of infection and normalizing the body’s immune response. It works by stimulating specific portions of the autonomic nervous system through selected acupoints, which in turn causes responses in the immune system. Acupuncture can cause a rise in levels of interferon, on of the immune system’s messenger hormones. Regular acupuncture therapy can be effective in treating asthma, allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, colds and infections.