As the weather cools and flu season approaches, many of us are looking for ways to stay healthy and avoid those pesky colds. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers simple yet effective remedies to help bolster your immune system and support recovery if you do catch a cold or the flu. At Kingsport Acupuncture, we encourage patients to use TCM techniques alongside everyday habits to protect their health.

Here are some at-home remedies and treatment options to keep in mind this winter.

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1. Fresh Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is a classic remedy I recommend to patients every year, and for good reason. Ginger is naturally warming, boosts circulation, and can help fight off early cold symptoms. Here’s how to make it:

• Peel a thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger (available at most grocery stores).
• Slice it into thin pieces and steep in hot water for 5–10 minutes.
• Add a drizzle of honey or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor and immune-boosting benefits.

This tea is a fantastic way to soothe a sore throat, clear nasal congestion, and support your body during chilly weather.

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2. Bone Broth

Bone broth is a nutrient powerhouse, rich in vitamins, minerals, and collagen that nourish the immune system and help you recover from illness. To make your own:

• Use marrow-dense bones, such as beef leg bones, chicken feet, or vertebrae bones, available at most butcher shops.
• Simmer them for several hours with water, vegetables, and herbs.

The result is a comforting broth packed with nutrients to keep you strong and energized during cold and flu season.

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3. Get Enough Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in immune health, but many people don’t get enough during the winter months. Make sure to:

• Spend time outdoors when the sun is shining.
• Include vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods in your diet.
• Consider supplementation if necessary, especially if you live in an area with limited sunlight.

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How Acupuncture and TCM Can Help

While these home remedies are a great start, some cases may need additional support. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine offer targeted treatments for both prevention and recovery.

For Prevention:

• TCM works to strengthen your immune system, making you less susceptible to frequent colds.
• Acupuncture improves circulation and balances energy in the body, helping you stay resilient against winter illnesses.

For Treatment:

• Acupuncture can relieve symptoms like congestion, body aches, and fatigue.
• Chinese herbal medicine offers specific formulas tailored to combat colds, flus, or even more severe conditions like pneumonia.

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Need Extra Support This Winter?

At Kingsport Acupuncture, we’re here to help you stay healthy and recover quickly during cold and flu season. Dr. Brian Duncan has years of experience treating patients with TCM techniques to boost immunity, ease symptoms, and improve overall health. Whether you’re looking to stay well or need help bouncing back after an illness, we can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

📞 Call us at 423-393-7797 or schedule an appointment online at Kingsport Acupuncture.

Stay warm, stay healthy, and embrace the winter season with confidence!