Acupuncture for
Autoimmune Conditions
HOME > CONDITIONS > AUTOIMMUNE
Can Acupuncture Reverse Autoimmunity?
Elias Lu, DTCM,
Acupuncture Physician
Point of Cure Acupuncture and Electromedicine in Tampa Bay, Florida
The immune system serves a vital role in safeguarding our bodies from infections while also warding off the onset of autoimmune diseases.
Acupuncture, an emerging therapeutic approach, shows promise in addressing conditions stemming from immune system dysregulation.

One of its potential mechanisms of action lies in its ability to exert a dual effect—both activating and suppressing components of the innate and adaptive immune systems. This modulation occurs through the regulation of inflammation-related cytokines and immune cell differentiation. Such a perspective resonates with the holistic principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which emphasize restoring body equilibrium and self-healing mechanisms rather than merely alleviating symptoms.
Research suggests that acupuncture may offer benefits to individuals grappling with various autoimmune conditions, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Studies like those conducted by Liu et al. (2023), Ma et al. (2013), Peng et al. (2022), and Wang et al. (2023) shed light on the immunomodulatory properties of acupuncture and its role in maintaining immune homeostasis. These findings contribute to our understanding of how traditional Chinese medicine approaches immune regulation and underscores the potential bidirectional effects and mechanisms involved.
Acupuncture’s ability to restore and maintain immune balance holds promise in improving the quality of life for individuals grappling with autoimmune disorders. As elucidated by Wang et al. (2023), its immunomodulatory mechanisms offer avenues for further exploration and application in clinical practice. Understanding the intricate interplay between acupuncture and the immune system opens new avenues for personalized and holistic approaches to healthcare, aligning with the principles of integrative medicine.
To sum thing up, while acupuncture is not a cure, it may benefit patients with Hashimoto thyroiditis, lupus, RA, MS, psoriasis, and many other auto-immune conditions.
References
Liu, F., Wang, Y., Lyu, K., Du, X., Zhou, M., Shi, J., Na, R., Guo, Y., Wang, G., Xu, W., & Tongsen, Z. (2023). Acupuncture & its ability to restore and maintain immune homeostasis. QJM : monthly journal of the Association of Physicians, hcad134. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1093/qjmed/hcad134
Ma, H. D., Deng, Y. R., Tian, Z., & Lian, Z. X. (2013). Traditional Chinese medicine and immune regulation. Clinical reviews in allergy & immunology, 44(3), 229–241. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12016-012-8332-0
Peng, X., Tang, F., Yang, Y., Li, T., Hu, X., Li, S., Wu, W., & He, K. (2022). Bidirectional effects and mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 298, 115578. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2022.115578
Wang, M., Liu, W., Ge, J., & Liu, S. (2023). The immunomodulatory mechanisms for acupuncture practice. Frontiers in immunology, 14, 1147718. https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2023.1147718

Dr. Elias Lu, DTCM is an acupuncture physician with Point of Cure Acupuncture and Electromedicine. In practice for over 25 years, he integrates traditional Chinese medicine with modern functional therapies to help people with chronic pain, trauma, neurodegenerative disorders, anxiety, depression, and many other life's challenges.
Conditions
Respiratory Conditions
Heart & Blood Vessels
Gut Health
Urinary Problems
Women's Health
Men's Health
Cancer Support
Pre- & Post-Surgery
Stroke Rehabilitation
Chronic Inflammation
Brain Repatterning
Tools
Acuphoresis
Acupressure
Acupoint injection
Biopuncture
Compounded creams
Cupping
Dry needling
Electroacupuncture
IM injections
Lymphatic detoxification
Neural therapy
Oxygen therapy
PEMF acupuncture
Prolotherapy
Scalp acupuncture
Trigger point injection
Vagal nerve stimulation