Fighting a Cold with Chinese Medicine

Traditional modern-day methods of dealing with cold and flu viruses involve standard care like staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest, and oftentimes people turn to over-the-counter medications to treat symptoms directly. Turning to medications may work, but they are short-term solutions and can come with side effects like drowsiness, nausea, and dizziness.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) focuses on the entire body and treating the root cause, rather than only looking to treat individual symptoms. TCM is also customized for each individual because cold and flu symptoms vary so much from person-to-person and virus-to-virus. Even better, TCM has been around for thousands of years and focuses on the most natural ways to treat your body.

Below we walk you through 4 popular TCM modalities and how they may help with cold and flu treatment. We always recommend discussing these options with a licensed professional that will provide a thorough exam before providing any care.

Acupuncture for Cold and Flu

Acupuncture is a form of TCM that has been practiced for thousands of years. Acupuncture is based on maintaining a healthy flow of vital energy—known as qi—through the meridians of the body. For colds and the flu, acupuncture involves placing needles on certain parts of the body that will help boost your immune system. A licensed acupuncturist will also place needles that focus on your symptoms.

To learn more about acupuncture for colds and the flu, click here.

Herbal Medicine for Colds

TCM practitioners will often prescribe a mixture of herbs that will vary from person to person to help restore the flow of energy and blood. These herbs may be teas, capsules, or powders mixed with water. For colds, these herbs are prescribed based on the type of cold you have which is determined by the symptoms you are experiencing.

To learn more about herbal medicine for colds, click here.

Chiropractic for Immune System

Chiropractic care is a great preventative treatment for those who have weakened immune systems and are at a higher risk to catch a cold or the flu. Chiropractic care focuses on the nervous system—your body’s central communication and regulatory system—which communicates directly with the immune system. An inhibited nervous system could directly impact your immune system’s ability to respond to a virus quickly.

To learn more about chiropractic care and the immune system, click here.

Nutrition and Immunity

Traditional Chinese Medicine also focuses on your diet and how food plays a role in your overall health, including the strength of your immune system. From spinach and whole grains to dark chocolate and berries, there are plenty of easily accessible foods that naturally boost your immune system. This can help speed your recovery if you are already sick or prevent you from getting sick in the first place.

To learn more about natural immune system boosters, click here.

If you are interested in any of these three treatment methods to help prevent or treat a cold or the flu, Arapahoe Chiropractic & Acupuncture is here to help. We are located in Centennial, Colorado and provide care to patients throughout the south Denver Metro Area. Contact us online for request an appointment today!