Probably the #1 reason I switched my career from Western medicine to Chinese medicine is because I discovered the endless care and consideration they bring to the immune system. Being trained in immunology, I knew there was a huge missing piece to immune healthcare that our Western conventional approach was lacking. I also have been observing over the last several months of the pandemic that education around how to take care of the immune is missing from mainstream media. It is most certainly true that those with stronger immune systems experience either little or no symptoms, where as those with more serious medical conditions and weakened immune systems are likely to have severe complications due to COVID-19. I'd like to take a moment to let you know what you can do to help yourself survive the winter with a stronger constitution in tact.
Oral Immune Support (That I take throughout the pandemic)
1. N-Acteyl Cysteine NAC. This is an inexpensive anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune modulator. Its' effects with COVID-19 have been written about in an NCBI journal article showing it may suppress replication of the virus, reduces cytokine storms, offer T-cell protection thereby mitigating tissue injury, and is a precursor to making glutathione (talked about next). This is my favorite add on to Chinese herbs during pandemic times.
2. Glutathione. This is a key anti-oxidant guardian in all tissues of the body. Also reported in the same journal, when this key tripeptide is at low levels it can be a major cause of excess inflammatory response resulting in severe COVID-19 symptoms. I often prescribe this for people with lowered immune systems or those with autoimmune conditions.
3. Turkey Tail mushrooms. This is my favorite immune support and cancer fighting fungi. All mushrooms aid in immune cellular defense. Some are targeting certain organ systems; therefore, having the right mushroom prescribed for your body type in Chinese medicine can be a huge plus.
4. Vitamin D. This too helps your immune system in fighting the effects of the coronavirus. Luckily this one was advertised by Fauci. We get less sun exposure in the winter months. Very likely that even healthy adults are low in this necessary hormone and vitamin.
All of these supplements are available at Golden Point Acupuncture to help you through the winter and beyond. Ask about them at your next visit.
These are general support for any person .*** A specific Chinese medicine formula for your body is ultimately the best approach to helping balance your system. There are a plethora of herbs to help with COVID; too many to talk about here. It is best to consult with myself to have one made for you. Also there are different herbs for different stages of the infection also depending on what your symptoms are. This is the beauty of Chinese medicine. It does not treat the disease; it treats the ecology of the person. A very different concept than a blanket medicine approach. If you or your loved ones need a virtual consultation or in person treatment, I am here for you! Book from our website.
Please remember lifestyle choices are the most important and foundational for a healthy immune system. Consider the following:
1. Lower your stress. This is the number one cause of disease, without a doubt. Doing a body orientated care practice such as exercise is irreplaceable to your overall well being. Also simply taking breaks from stimulus to the senses and engaging with meditation, breathing, prayer, yoga, and the like is foundational to lower inflammation and stress to our nervous system. It can even help you sleep and settle your mood.
2. Healthy Nutrition. This can be a loaded topic for some who are working with food concerns. If you are already limiting your food, I am a proponent of things you can add. Some of my personal favorites are mushrooms, pomegranates (in season now), quality fish, fermented foods, and lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. I will say that removing sugar and alcohol are key in supporting the over health of your body and immune system.
3. Nature time. Because we are sheltered in place, a remote hike in nature with yourself or a friend is a wonderful activity you can do that is rejuvenating for your energy, mood, and soul. It is easy to get washed up in our homes at this time, so step outside forest bathe, see a body of water, or immerse yourself in sunny snow cover. Your body, mind and heart will thank you!