This year there will be at least 1 billion colds and 95 million cases of the flu in the United States alone – anywhere between 5% and 20% of the US population will get the flu on average, each year.

Why wait until you start feeling crummy and come down with the flu to do something?

Preventative medicine is where acupuncture shines!
But if you do come down with the misery of a cold or flu, also
consider turning to acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for faster relief.

Acupuncture for Prevention
Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can prevent colds and flu by strengthening the immune system with just a few needles inserted into key points along the body’s energy pathways

In Oriental Medicine, disease prevention begins with a protective layer around the exterior of the body called wei qi, our bodies own defensive energy. Certain acupuncture points can strengthen this shield by improving the circulation of blood and energy on the outer defense layers of the skin and muscle so that germs and viruses cannot enter through them. If you catch colds easily, have low energy and require a long time recuperating from an illness your wei qi may be deficient.

Acupuncture to GET BETTER FASTER
If you have already come down with a cold or the flu, acupuncture treatments can help relieve symptoms you are currently experiencing including chills, fever, body aches, runny nose, congestion, sore throat and cough.

Certain acupuncture points have been shown to increase white blood cell production, which is a large part of how we combat illness. While bringing some immediate relief, treatments will reduce the incidence of an upper respiratory tract infection and shorten the length of the illness.

Now offering Homeopathic Flu Shots

Another great way to prevent getting the flu is to strengthen your own defense system against viral and bacterial infections.

We are now offering a series of 3 ALL NATURAL, HOMEOPATHIC injections for protection against influenza, colds and fevers.

**Inquire with either Sarah or Katherine for more information**

The best news about these injections is that not only are they safe for all ages, but they don’t carry the risks or the side effects of the current modern day flu shots. These shots help to increase your immunity, increase oxygenation to your tissues, promote tissue regeneration and enhance drainage and detoxification. These are the four pillars of homeopathy, and these injections will support your general immune function, while promoting your body’s own natural ability to defend and heal itself from viral and bacterial infection.

Herbs and supplements for immunity:

Chuan Xin Lian is an herb we often use in Chinese Medicine at the early onset, or even in the midst of a cold or the flu. Also known as Andrographis, this herb is Antibacterial, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-neoplastic, Antipyretic, and Hepatoprotective. It is particularly good for the lungs, sore throats, cough, GI upsets, and skin problems. Included in many traditional Chinese herbal formulas as well as common day Nutriceuticals, look to Chuan Xin Lian this cold and flu season for relief!

Beta-Glucan – Found in two staple formulas that we carry whole glucan particle is processed by macrophages {cells that function in both innate and adaptive immunity} and increases selective phagocytosis, selective cytokine release, and oxidative degranulation. Administration of beta-glucan promotes antioxidant enzymes & affects white blood cell recovery. Utilizing whole beta glucan particle has been shown to significantly reduce the number of days one experiences immune distress.

Flu Terminator – An excellent product developed by a renowned homeopathic physician, helps to eradicate symptoms at the onset – contact PBHA for more information and ingredient list!

Vitamin D3 – plays a critical role in immune modulation and autoimmune protection. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is made from cholesterol in the skin from UVB light. It needs Vitamin A, K2, and Mg for proper function and absorption and plays a critical role in the absorption of Zinc. Contact PBHA if you have questions about testing your 25-OH Vitamin D levels or how to safely optimize the amount you are receiving from your diet, lifestyle, and supplementation.

SIMPLE TIPS FOR PREVENTION:

14Seasonal changes affect the body’s environment. With wind, rain and cooler temperatures come the colds, flus and the aches and pains that accompany them – Good lifestyle and hygiene habits are proven to reduce your risk of getting sick.

Wash Your Hands – Studies have shown that one of the main reasons we catch colds and flu during seasonal changes is that we are indoors and in closer proximity to others. Protect yourself by washing your hands regularly and try not to touch your face.

Sleep in during the winter months – The Nei Ching, an ancient Chinese classic, advised people to go to sleep early, rest well and rise late, after the sun’s rays have warmed the atmosphere a bit. This preserves your own Yang Qi for the task of keeping the body warm. Winter is the time to strengthen and preserve your jing
or essence energy – extra rest will contribute to this.

Stress Less – Find a release valve for your stress. According to Chinese medicine, stress, frustration, and unresolved anger can play an important part in throwing the immune system off and allowing pathogens to affect the body. Find a way to relax and release stress on a daily basis. Such methods may include yoga, meditation and exercise. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in the treatment of stress, anxiety and depression.

Seasonal Tune-Up – Acupuncture & Oriental medicine can prevent colds and flu by building up the immune system with just a few needles inserted into key points along the body’s energy pathways.
Seasonal acupuncture treatments just four times a year also serve to tonify the inner organ systems and can correct minor annoyances before they become serious problems.

Call us to see how we can help you stay healthy this season!

561.429.2586
www.palmbeachhealingarts.com