Acupuncture helps with cold and flu

When cold and flu symptoms strike, many people look for ways to ease discomfort and speed recovery. Acupuncture offers a natural approach that targets common symptoms like headaches, runny nose, sinus congestion, coughing, throat irritation, wheezing, and fatigue. By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture supports the immune system and promotes healing, helping you feel better faster.

Acupuncture needles on Shao Shang point near thumb nail

How acupuncture relieves cold and flu symptoms

Acupuncture helps relieve symptoms by promoting blood and lymph circulation. This improved flow supports the body’s natural healing processes and helps tissues recover more effectively. When circulation is enhanced, the immune system can respond more efficiently to infections.

The treatment also strengthens lung immunity. It boosts white blood cell activity and overall cellular immunity, which are key to fighting off viruses and bacteria. This means acupuncture not only eases symptoms but also helps your body defend itself.

Another important benefit is supporting Wei Qi, the body’s protective energy that guards against external pathogens. When Wei Qi is weak, you are more vulnerable to catching colds. Acupuncture helps strengthen this protective barrier, reducing the chance of infection.

Finally, acupuncture reduces inflammation and relieves pain by releasing vascular and immunomodulatory factors, endorphins, and other neurochemicals. These substances help calm irritated tissues and ease discomfort from headaches, sore throat, and muscle aches.

Key acupuncture points for cold and flu relief

Shao Shang (LU.11)

This point is located on the radial side of the thumb, at the corner of the nail. It lies where the radial border of the nail meets the base, about 0.1 cun from the nail’s corner.

Shao Shang is effective for:

• Dispelling invasions of wind-heat, which helps with acute sore throat and cough

• Relieving pain and swelling in the throat area

• Supporting immune function and clearing lung congestion

• Reducing fever and clearing excess heat, which can ease headaches and skin irritation

• Balancing the large intestines and regulating qi to stabilize digestive issues like constipation, gas, and bloating

  
  

Stimulating this point can provide quick relief from throat discomfort and help the body fight infection.

Da Zhui (DU.14)

Da Zhui is located on the midline of the spine at the base of the neck, in the depression below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra and the first thoracic vertebra, level with the shoulders.

This point is the meeting place of all yang meridians and is used to:

• Expel pathogens and clear heat

• Reduce fever and tonify yang energy

• Improve yang function to support the body’s defenses

  
  

Acupuncture and cupping on Da Zhui help dispel acute wind-cold or wind-heat conditions, especially when symptoms include fever, chills, and aversion to cold. It also assists in releasing the exterior, which means helping the body push out invading pathogens.

Acupuncture needles on Da Zhui point at base of neck

Practical tips for using acupuncture during cold and flu

If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, consider consulting a licensed acupuncturist who can tailor treatment to your needs. Acupuncture sessions typically last 20 to 40 minutes and may be combined with other therapies like cupping or herbal medicine for enhanced effects.

You can also apply gentle pressure to the Shao Shang and Da Zhui points at home to support your treatment. Use clean fingers to press firmly but comfortably for about one to two minutes on each point. This can help relieve symptoms between professional sessions.

Remember that acupuncture works best as part of a comprehensive approach to health. Rest, hydration, and proper nutrition remain essential for recovery.

Supporting your immune system naturally

Acupuncture’s ability to boost white blood cell activity and enhance cellular immunity makes it a valuable tool in supporting lung health and overall resistance to infections. By improving circulation and reducing inflammation, it helps the body respond more effectively to viruses.

Strengthening Wei Qi through acupuncture also means you may be less likely to catch colds in the future. This protective energy acts like a shield against external pathogens, so maintaining its strength is key to long-term wellness.

Final thoughts on acupuncture for cold and flu

Acupuncture offers a gentle, natural way to relieve cold and flu symptoms while supporting your body’s healing and immune functions. By targeting specific points like Shao Shang and Da Zhui, it helps clear congestion, reduce fever, ease pain, and strengthen your defenses.

If you want to explore acupuncture as part of your cold and flu care, seek a qualified practitioner who can guide you safely. Combined with rest and healthy habits, acupuncture can be a useful addition to your recovery plan.