Acupuncture for the Common Cold
Colds are easily transferred through air droplets as a result of sneezing as well as touching infected areas. Children contract approximately eight colds per year and their parents are the first to follow suit. A cold is usually not contagious after a week of infection. Conditions that can result from a stubborn cold include bronchitis, ear infection, sinusitis and pneumonia. Conventional treatments include over the counter medications that stop symptoms but often do not let the body work to rid itself of the virus therefore actually elongating the cold. This can lead to stronger medications such as antibiotics. At Integrative Med Solutions (IMS) an acupuncture and naturopathic medicine approach to the common cold can not only decrease symptoms but may very well strengthen the system to avoid further viral cold infections.
Acupuncture: Common Cold Points
A 2007 Chinese study (Zhongguo Zhen Jiu) concluded that acupuncture at the point called Dazhui (GV 14 – back of the neck) had a definite therapeutic effect on a high fever associated with the common cold, and also for wind-heat type common cold. If treatment is administered at the immediate onset of symptoms the cold duration is significantly reduced. Licensed acupuncturist, Dr. Lisanti will determine the best point locations according to your specific cold symptoms. Other points that may assist various challenges include: GB20 back of the head near the neck for nasal congestion/headache; ST21 upper abdomen to strengthen stomach and spleen: and LI7 along the outside arm to relieve back pain due to excessive coughing.
Clinical Nutrition: Soothing the Common Cold with the Right Foods
Using the science of clinical nutrition Dr. Lisanti can target your cold healing simply by suggesting specific foods. For instance, if you do not have an aversion to hot peppers they can aid in stimulating mucous membranes to allow for easier fluid elimination. Lemons increase salivary flow which in turn soothes the throat as well as the acidic citrus can also mend irritated mucous membranes. Honey is a demulcent which is known top sooth the throat and because of its pollen count, local honey can alleviate an allergy related cold.
Homeopathy: Energy Therapy
Using homeopathic remedies for the common cold can reap many positive results. Derived from plant, animal, mineral and other sources, homeopathy can help move energy that has been tamped down and rendered sluggish due to a variety of reasons. IMS uses homeopathy individually prescribed according to each person’s specific history. Some choices that may be used are: Aconite for first stage symptoms such as a dry cough or hot, red cheeks, Rhus Tox for second stage symptoms including runny nose or scratchy throat, Euphrasia for sinuses or fever and Nat Mur also for first stage symptoms including white mucous and runny eyes.
For more common cold remedies along with a complete healing protocol Integrative Med Solutions, will design an acupuncture and naturopathic treatment program that works for you. In many cases, insurance covers portions of the acupuncture treatment. Allow us to support you to achieve optimal health. To make an appointment or find out more about how acupuncture and naturopathic medicine can benefit you, please call our office at 914.337.2980 or click here to schedule an online appointment.
*Please CLICK HERE to see a current list of Insurance Companies that commonly carry acupuncture benefits for its members. Please call 914.337.2980 or securely email info@intmedsolutions.com to verify your specific benefits. If you are emailing, please include your full name, date of birth and insurance identification card number.