Acupuncture as an Alternative to the Flu Shot to Stay Healthy Through Cold & Flu Season

There is much to love about winter. As mercury drops, you will have one more reason to enjoy your favorite hot beverage and appreciate the colors of nature. You can cozy up with your loved one near the fireplace or spend quality time with the people who matter on chilly nights. Winter, however, brings its fair share of challenges. This season can increase a person’s chances of contracting the influenza virus or any of a number of viruses that cause colds.

Over the years, medical scientists have developed several medications for the common cold and flu. Unfortunately, many flu medicines have side effects. People who are allergic to certain medications are now more willing to explore traditional alternative medicine than ever before. One of the most accepted and mainstream forms of therapy that people looking for an effective and side-effect-free treatment for flu gravitate towards is acupuncture.

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice. It involves inserting paper-thin needles into different points in the skin to restore the natural balance of energy in the body. Acupuncture in Lafayette, CA is used to relieve discomfort and pain associated with different health issues and conditions. If you or a loved one is vulnerable to the flu, we have good news for you. Acupuncture is known to help with cold and flu.

Different Types of Cold

According to traditional Chinese medicine, there are three types of cold:

Wind Cold

Some symptoms of wind cold include:

• Nasal secretion
• Continuous sneezing
• Mild fever
• Soreness and body pain
• White phlegm
• Damp Heat

Common symptoms of damp heat include:

• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• Persistent headache

Wind Heat

Some common symptoms of wind heat:

• Runny nose
• Fever
• Development of a strong aversion to wind
• Yellow phlegm

How Does Acupuncture Help?

Acupuncture treatment can help lower pulse, blood pressure, raised body temperature and respiration due to cold and flu. Additionally, acupuncture cleanses the body deeply of toxins, helping strengthen its defensive mechanism. When your defensive mechanism is in good shape, your body is able to ward off harmful bacteria, germs, and viruses. No wonder the WHO (World Health Organization) supports the use of acupuncture for respiratory and infectious complications associated with the flu.

A major advantage of Chinese medicine is that it works on the entire body, and not just the issue that is being targeted. This is why many acupuncturists recommend receiving acupuncture treatment at regular intervals.

They say prevention is better than cure. You will benefit greatly from being treated before the onset of symptoms. If, however, you did not get your flu shot, consult an acupuncturist if you start exhibiting flu symptoms. Remember, timely intervention is the key to improving outcomes.

Acupuncture is not a fad. Strong evidence exists that acupuncture is effective for different types of health conditions. No wonder doctors around the world combine acupuncture treatment with traditional treatment to help their patients get their lives back on track. At Monarch Acupuncture & Wellness, we witness the wonders of acupuncture every day in our clinic. We have mastered the art of manipulating acupuncture points to achieve harmony between the mind, body, and soul. To book a session, email us at info@monarchacupuncture.com or book online at www.monarchacupuncture.com/booknow.