Acupuncture’s ability to activate the immune system by increasing white blood cell production has made it a focal point in immunological research. Studies show that needling stimulates bone marrow activity via neural pathways, leading to elevated levels of neutrophils and lymphocytes post-treatment. Blood samples consistently reveal this immune enhancement, which helps the body fight infections and supports recovery in immunocompromised patients. This effect is particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing chemotherapy or battling chronic infections, offering a natural way to bolster immunity without the side effects of pharmaceutical interventions. Patients often report fewer infections and faster recovery times, a testament to this biological boost.
This biological benefit has significantly contributed to acupuncture’s rising research trend. With global health threats like antibiotic resistance and immune-related disorders on the rise, researchers are eager to explore non-invasive immune-boosting therapies like acupuncture. Studies have investigated how acupuncture can complement conventional treatments in cancer care, with trials showing improved immune markers in patients undergoing chemotherapy. The NIH has funded research to quantify these effects across diverse populations, aiming to integrate acupuncture into integrative oncology programs and infectious disease protocols. The measurable impact on immune function has elevated acupuncture’s status in scientific circles, driving its adoption in hospitals and clinics worldwide as a supportive therapy for immune health.
References
- Yamaguchi, N., et al. (2007). Acupuncture regulates leukocyte subpopulations in human peripheral blood. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 4(4), 447-453. DOI: 10.1093/ecam/nel107
- McDonald, J. L., et al. (2013). The effects of acupuncture on immune response: A systematic review. Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies, 6(3), 121-129. DOI: 10.1016/j.jams.2013.01.002
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). (2021). Acupuncture and immunity: Research insights. Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/acupuncture
At this clinic, I practice an integrative approach to Acupuncture, mixing different systems (Neoclassical, Balance Method, Tung, Motor Point Acupuncture, Dry Needling) depending on what the people need, however primarily centred in the Neoclassical Acupuncture paradigm.
Acupuncture in Hobart and Kingston
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