Michelle Leonard: Acupuncture Treats Colds & Flu

With the change of season and cooler weather, many people will suffer with body aches, nasal congestion, sore throat, cough, sneezing, fever, and fatigue. Clinical studies have shown that using Chinese medicine to prevent colds and flu can reduce the frequency of illness and severity of symptoms if you do get sick. TCM regulates the body’s innate healing energies and enhances the immune system. Wei qi ("way chee"), similar to the Western concept of the immune system, is the body's defensive energy, the barrier that protects us against viruses and bacteria. When wei qi is deficient, we become vulnerable to disease. We strengthen our wei qi when we get proper sleep, eat a healthy diet, and keep our stress levels down. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can also build up the supply of wei qi. This storehouse is the body’s way to effectively ward off disease. Chinese medicine is a natural, safe, and effective way to help support the body’s ability to defend itself! And if you do "catch a bug," TCM practitioners have acupuncture protocols to help you get back on your feet quickly. TCM teaches that our daily choices are the most important factors in our well-being. Essentials: Getting enough and restful sleep, relaxation and emotional balance, moderate physical activity, and good eating habits. TCM practitioners can help with many health conditions and assist you in establishing good self-care. Foods that are in season are the most beneficial for us. Autumn is the time to slowly roast foods at low temperatures. Avoid eating raw foods, and as always, stay away from fried, heavy foods and limit your consumption of dairy.

Enjoy Fall’s Bounty
whole grains, wild rice
leeks, garlic, sage, thyme,
rosemary, ginger, cinnamon
pears, apples, plums, figs,
pomegranate, persimmons
cabbage, broccoli, beets,
bok choy, brussels sprouts,
yams, carrots, winter squash


The following recipe is an ancient Chinese home remedy for colds. It works best when
you just begin to experience those symptoms that make you think you're getting sick. Chills or slight fever, itchy throat, stuffy nose, or a headache.



Miso Soup

6 cups water
3–4 tablespoons Aka Miso or red soybean paste
3–5 green onion stalks, chopped
In saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add miso and green onions.
Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Top with more
green onions and serve. You can add other ingredients to make
the soup heartier, such as fresh mushrooms, cooked shrimp, tofu,
or fresh gingerroot.

Feel free to pass this along to a loved one and friends.