Do you find that every time you turn on the radio, television or social media, the first thing you hear about is the spread of the Coronavirus?  There is some good fact-based information out there but there is also a lot of fear. Remember fear doesn’t solve any problems so stay in the present moment while also being proactive.

Acupuncture can help boost your immune system without using expensive drugs with all their side effects.  How does acupuncture work for immunity? We all know that acupuncture is an ancient method of medicine and it works by balancing the energies of the body, or the Chi. 

Studies have shown that the body's immune system is more able to destroy bacteria and viruses with the help of acupuncture.  With acupuncture, the brain is able to increase the T-cell levels of the body. These T-cells are what destroys the invading viruses.  Researchers think that the acupuncture needles provoke the body’s immune response; the body sees the needles as invaders and gathers the white cell and T-cell count like an army to fight them off.   The great after-effect of acupuncture is that the benefits of this lasts days after your acupuncture session.

Acupuncturists can also prescribe potent herbal formulas in order to prevent flu-like viruses as well as formulas to help if you do get sick.  

Wellness Tips

Here are some tips to help you stay well:

• Take Vitamin C, 3000mg/day divided into 3 daily doses of 1000 mg each

• Zinc, 20 mg/day

• Magnesium, 400 mg threonate

• Vitamin D, 2000 - 5000 i.u. (check with your doctor as to the best amount for you)

• Daily tea made of lemon balm, a known anti-viral

• Mullein, strengthens the lungs

• Echinacea

• Elderberry

• Avoid handshakes and hugs… perhaps the Oriental greeting of bowing has more practical implications aside from showing respect. Warm smile and nod is great. 

I also recommend making your own blend of Thieves oil:

40 drops of clove bud

35 drops lemon

20 drops cinnamon bark

15 drops eucalyptus radiata

10 drops rosemary

Diffuse this in your home.  Make a disinfecting spray with it by adding 3 drops to 3 ounces of water in a spray bottle.  You can use the diluted Thieves Oil as a hand sanitizer, rub on the bottom of your feet to keep away cold and flu, or rub it on areas where you may have aches and pains.

Hand Washing

Washing our hands is the best prevention, it’s easy and effective, but there is a right way. Here are five steps to hand washing from the CDC website: (a link has also been provided)

Follow these five steps every time.

1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.

2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.

3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.

4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.

5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

You may also use Hand Sanitizer when soap and water are not readily available. Be sure it is at least 60% alcohol.  (For the proper way to use hand sanitizer, go to the link provided below.)

www.cdc.gov/handwashing

Be Prepared, Don’t Panic!  

WASH YOUR HANDS, try to prevent touching your face often, clean surfaces that you touch often (or that your kids touch), and as preparing for a storm, it may be a good idea to stock up on non-perishable foods and water.  The CDC says that face masks do not prevent getting the virus, but if you or a loved one should get sick, they should wear one to prevent spreading it to others. The N95 face mask can help prevent sickness if it fits properly on the face.  We have all seen the effects of people panicking before a storm and we know that only causes more issues. Be prepared and know that we can prepare for the worst and still expect the best outcome. And if you would like to boost your immune system, Book your appointment!