Nothing is more relevant to health than a well-functioning immune system. Many ailments and diseases such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, the common cold, infection, food allergies, and cancer are related to immune system dysfunction.

Oriental Medicine effectively treats disorders of the immune system. There are several Chinese herbs which increase white blood cell production, improve liver and kidney function and strengthen the body. Several acupuncture points have been documented to increase white blood cell production. Chinese herbs and acupuncture are especially effective in the treatment of immune disorders because they focus on strengthening the immune system and stimulating the body´s natural defense mechanisms.

Chinese herbs can be of significant benefit for most people with immune disorders. Chinese herbal medicine has been used for centuries to increase immunity and vitality. Combinations of herbs are tailored to meet every patient´s individual health needs. Chinese herbal medicine formulas are a natural alternative to pharmaceutical medication and have no side effects.

Many Chinese herbs have strong immunity-enhancing effects. Astragalus is well-known for its powerful immune system stimulating capacity, which works by increasing the numbers and activity of roving white blood cells. The immune system can be tonified by using this herb. As effective as astragalus is by itself, Chinese herbal formulas have a much stronger effect than single herbs and cover a wider range of symptoms.

Ginseng is another popular Chinese herb, widely used as an immune system enhancer and also as a general tonic. Ginseng has been found to stimulate the immune system; has antioxidant effects; and prevents cancer.

Acupuncture also effectively regulates the immune system. Research shows that acupuncture treatment can increase the body"s T-cell count as well as red and white cell counts. Acupuncture also increases the number of cells that destroy bacteria, protozoa and cell debris. Regular acupuncture treatment for lupus, colds, infections, asthma, and allergies can relieve symptoms as well as treat the cause of disease.

Acupuncture enhances humoral and cellular immunity in patients with immune-related illness. Acupuncture therapy has the potential to treat a wide range of health conditions, including immune deficiency, by stimulating and balancing the immune system.

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.

Most allopathic health care is directed toward relieving symptoms rather than treating the underlying cause of the disease, which may include toxins, chronic viral infections or a combination. Conventional treatments for overactive immune system disorders such as allergies and autoimmune diseases such as arthritis often include treatments aimed at suppressing the immune system through medication, which is useful for symptom management but does not result in a cure. Side effects and other adverse symptoms may develop after long-term use of these suppressive drugs.

Acupuncture 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.

The most effective treatment for the immune system is prevention of adverse health conditions. Treatment to boost qi and blood before sickness occurs is more effective than treatment after onset of illness. Individuals experiencing immune disorders should schedule regular preventative acupuncture maintenance treatments.

For information about Acupuncture & Massage College´s Oriental Medicine and Massage Therapy programs call Joe Calareso at (305) 595-9500.