Optimizing the Immune System with Chinese Medicine

School is back in session, Fall is approaching, and those pesky colds and flus are sneaking back into our lives. Did you know that Chinese Medicine can help optimize your immune system and reduce the likelihood of you catching bugs?

What exactly is the “immune system”? It’s a complex network of cells, organs, and proteins that work together to defend the body against harmful invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and toxins. There are two main parts to the immune system: innate and adaptive. The innate immune system is what you are born with and the adaptive immune system you develop by being exposed to microbes or chemicals. When it comes to the immune system, it is possible for it to be underactive or overactive. 

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we have a specific type of Qi called Wei Qi (pronounced way-chee) or Defensive Qi. It circulates just under the surface of the skin and is considered our body’s first line of defense against external pathogens. The Wei Qi functions closely with the Lung organ system in TCM, however, according to Chapter 36 of the Ling Shu, Wei Qi originates in the Spleen, the organ responsible for digestion. Even thousands of years ago it was well known that treating the immune system begins in the gut!

While getting sick happens from time to time, there are several things that we can do to strengthen our Wei Qi and decrease the likelihood of getting sick. 

Proper nutrition: Since our gut health is so important to building a strong immune system, it is important to be eating a balanced, healthy diet. I’m not one for eliminating foods unless there is an allergy or intolerance, but I strongly support eating in moderation. Are cookies delicious? Yes, and it’s perfectly acceptable to have one now and then but don’t eat the whole container in one sitting. Limiting sugar, dairy, and fried or greasy foods will help to support your gut health.

Eat foods that nourish the Spleen, Stomach, and Wei Qi: As noted in my previous post about Late Summer, Spleen/Stomach foods are typically yellow or orange, round, and sweet. Foods like carrots, yams, potatoes, corn, pumpkin and other squashes, millet, barley, etc. Foods that nourish the Wei Qi include Asian pears, apples, garlic, parsnips, green onions, cinnamon, mushrooms, almonds, broccoli, and ginger.

Prioritize sleep: I know I say this a lot, but sleep is the magical healer of all ailments. Getting an adequate amount of sleep helps to keep the immune system functioning properly. Have you ever worked so hard for several days straight with very little sleep and then you finally have a day off and you get sick? Yeah, we’ve all been there. When the body is worn down, it is difficult for the Wei Qi to remain strong enough to fight off pathogens. So get your beauty (immunity) sleep!

Regular exercise: Exercise is another one that is frequently on these self-care lists, but it’s on here for a reason! Circulate and strengthen the Lung Qi by incorporating some aerobic exercise into your routine. A little sweating every day helps to purge pathogens from the superficial layer of the body before they enter the deeper layers.

Practice breathwork: To balance the more aerobic, Yang activities, practice some form of Yin exercise that really focuses on breathwork like yoga, tai chi, qi gong, or meditation. Breathwork strengthens the Lungs which helps to disperse Wei Qi throughout the body.

Cover up: Help your Wei Qi out by adding a layer between it and the elements. Wear a scarf or hood to cover the back of the neck and in general dress appropriately for the weather. 

Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs: We have so many tools in our toolbox to help prevent illness. While we can also take care of you if you are already sick, it is certainly preferred by both parties that you do not get sick in the first place. Monthly (or more) acupuncture is a great way to keep your Qi flowing smoothly and keep your immune system in tip-top shape. If you are someone who catches colds often, is traveling, or spending time around metaphorical petri dishes (ie. children, hospitals, etc.), we have several herbal formulas that help to strengthen your Wei Qi. These are safe and effective formulas that even my Nana swears by.