Respiratory & Cardiovascular
Breathe Freely, Thrive Wholeheartedly: Harnessing
Acupuncture for Respiratory and Cardiovascular Health
Acupuncture for Heart Health
Acupuncture may help with diseases that affect the heart, including:
- High blood pressure
- Coronary heart disease
- Congestive heart failure
The Heart Qi is considered the King of Circulation, responsible for pumping blood throughout the entire body. As the Heart houses the spirit, a deficient Qi can lead to poor circulation and spirit disturbance.
Modern research has found that acupuncture is helpful in lowering blood pressure to healthier levels. In one study, researchers found that placing acupuncture needles at points along the wrist, forearm, or leg may stimulate the release of natural opioids. This release decreases the amount of work your heart needs to do to pump blood, decreasing its need for oxygen and lowering pressure levels.
Smoking is a factor that leads to heart failure and other cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. Quitting will improve your short- and long-term health. Acupuncture may help with the irritability, restlessness, and cravings that come with quitting.
Acupuncture for Lung Health
Acupuncture may help with the following respiratory conditions:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Emphysema
- Chronic bronchitis
If you struggle with these respiratory issues, you likely suffer from obstructed airways that make it difficult to breathe. While you may seek treatment for these conditions, they can still worsen over time. Fortunately, acupuncture sessions can help reduce your shortness of breath and improve your breathing ability.
Research has shown that those who use acupuncture alongside conventional treatments may be able to exercise for longer periods of time. There is also evidence to suggest that this holistic treatment relaxes the muscles you use to breathe and triggers the release of chemicals that open up your airways. These effects can make a significant difference in your quality of life.