Improving Lung Health in Wildfire Season with Acupuncture
by Gavin Larsen
As British Columbia faces an unprecedented wildfire season, with over 474 active fires across Canada and projections indicating above-normal wildfire activity extending well into September, maintaining lung health has never been more critical. The significant increase in smoke, pollutants, and other airborne contaminants poses a substantial risk to respiratory health. While Vancouver air quality is not currently suffering, it may be important to prepare for the possibility of unfavourable shifts.
In this challenging environment, acupuncture emerges as a supportive therapy for enhancing lung function and overall respiratory wellness.
Let’s explore how acupuncture supports lung health, drawing from both contemporary research and traditional science to provide insights into this holistic approach to respiratory care.
Can Acupuncture Improve Lung Function?
Recent research highlights the efficacy of acupuncture in improving lung function, especially for individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). A meta-analysis reviewed 28 randomized controlled trials involving 2,130 COPD patients. The results showed that acupuncture led to significant improvements in several key indicators of lung function, including forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), and the FEV1/FVC ratio. Additionally, the six-minute walk distance (6MWD), a measure of exercise capacity, increased by 45.48 meters. These findings underscore acupuncture's potential to enhance lung function and overall respiratory performance.
Reducing Dyspnea and Improving Quality of Life
Another study observed how acupuncture proved beneficial in alleviating Dyspnea (difficulty breathing), a symptom of COPD. In this randomized sham-controlled trial, patients receiving real acupuncture experienced significant reductions in dyspnea compared to those receiving sham acupuncture. The study measured improvements in a six minute walk test and health-related quality of life. Participants in the real acupuncture group demonstrated better exercise capacity and overall quality of life, highlighting acupuncture's role in improving daily functioning and comfort for those with respiratory conditions.
Regulation of Breathing and Immune Support
Acupuncture addresses the lung channel, which is crucial for regulating breathing, immune function, and emotional well-being. The lung channel is one of the 12 major meridians of the body, functioning to support overall resistance to illness in TCM. Acupuncture helps restore balance in this system by improving circulation in the tissue surrounding the lungs, and nervous system responsiveness in the lung channel. This approach not only improves lung function but also supports overall well-being by enhancing the body's natural healing processes.
Acupuncture points such as Kidney 27, Lung 5, and Ren 17 play essential roles in supporting respiratory health. Kidney 27, located just below the collarbone, helps open the lungs and promotes full breathing. Lung 5, found at the crease of the elbow, is effective in reducing coughing and wheezing. Ren 17, located in the center of the chest, aids in loosening congestion and encouraging deeper respiration. By stimulating these points, acupuncture can enhance the body's ability to manage respiratory symptoms and support immune function.
Complementary Therapies for Lung Health
In addition to acupuncture, several complementary strategies can support lung health. Nutritional adjustments play a significant role in maintaining respiratory function. According to Five Element Acupuncture Theory, the lung channel corresponds with the pungent taste. Foods like garlic, onions, radishes and scallions, known for their pungent qualities, help open the airways and support lung qi. Sweet cooling foods, such as pears and honey, can soothe the respiratory tract and counteract the dryness caused by smoke and pollutants. Incorporating these foods into your diet can complement the benefits of acupuncture and help maintain optimal lung health.
Yoga and stretching exercises also support respiratory health by enhancing lung capacity and improving overall respiratory function. Poses like upward-facing dog, fish pose, and camel pose stretch the lung meridian pathways, expand the rib cage, and enhance deep breathing. Regular practice of these yoga poses can complement acupuncture treatments and contribute to better respiratory health.
Can Herbs Support Lung Function?
In addition to acupuncture, TCM practitioners may recommend herbal remedies and nutritional supplements to further support lung health. Herbs such as astragalus, cordyceps, and ophiopogon are commonly used to boost lung function and immunity. These herbs can complement acupuncture treatments and provide additional support for respiratory health.
Addressing Environmental Impacts
Given the current environmental challenges, including widespread fires and air pollution, it is crucial to take proactive measures to protect and support lung health. By combining acupuncture with lifestyle changes, nutritional adjustments, and other supportive therapies, individuals can enhance their lung health and resilience in the face of environmental stressors.
Take a Deep Breath
Acupuncture offers a valuable approach to supporting lung health, particularly during times when respiratory conditions may be exacerbated by environmental factors. By improving lung function, reducing symptoms associated with the lungs, and supporting overall immune health, acupuncture can play a significant role in maintaining optimal respiratory health. For those concerned about lung health or experiencing respiratory issues, consider exploring acupuncture as an effective part of a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the effects of environmental pollutants and maintain optimal respiratory function.
About Gavin
Gavin Larsen, a Registered Acupuncturist and Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (R.Ac., R.TCM.P.), brings over a decade of experience in holistic health to his practice. His passion is to connect ancient healing traditions with modern scientific knowledge. Gavin earned his doctorate of acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine from the Academy of Classical Oriental Sciences and has received comprehensive training in acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, cupping therapy, and Gua Sha. He is committed to assisting individuals in attaining optimal health, fitness, and well-being by integrating holistic approaches supported by scientific research.
