Recovery & Detox Symptoms After Acupuncture: Signs of Healing
Body Detox Symptoms After Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient practice that has helped countless people restore balance and health by stimulating the body’s energy flow, known as Qi. One common experience that people encounter after acupuncture is the body’s detoxification process. This process can manifest through a range of detox symptoms after acupuncture, signaling that the body is responding to treatment and beginning its journey toward healing.
Let’s learn what you can expect during recovery, how to manage detox symptoms, and the best ways to support your body’s natural healing process after an acupuncture session. At Red Leaf Wellness, we combine the traditional principles of acupuncture with modern healthcare to provide a holistic approach to wellness.
Understanding Detox Symptoms After Acupuncture
Acupuncture stimulates the body by restoring the flow of Qi, which in turn helps to release physical and emotional blockages. This can trigger the body to release toxins and pent-up energy, a process often referred to as detoxification. Detox symptoms are completely normal, indicating that the treatment is taking effect.
What Causes Detox Symptoms After Acupuncture?
When acupuncture needles are inserted at specific points in the body, they stimulate the flow of Qi through the meridians. This increased energy flow can push toxins out of the tissues and into the bloodstream, where they are processed and excreted. These toxins might have accumulated due to stress, poor diet, or environmental factors, which means that the body is essentially purging itself as it moves toward balance.
Common Detox Symptoms After Acupuncture
Here are some typical detox symptoms after acupuncture that people might experience:
- Fatigue: The body uses a lot of energy to heal and detox, which can make you feel more tired than usual. This is completely normal and is a sign that your body is actively recovering.
- Headaches or Mild Nausea: As toxins are released into the bloodstream, you may experience headaches or nausea. These symptoms usually subside within a day or two.
- Emotional Release: Acupuncture can unearth stored emotions, resulting in sudden mood swings or an overwhelming sense of calm. Emotional release is a healthy part of the detox process.
- Flu-like Symptoms: Detoxification may sometimes mimic cold or flu symptoms as the body clears toxins. These symptoms, like muscle aches and mild fever, are temporary.
- Increased Bowel Movements or Urination: As the body flushes out toxins, you may find yourself needing to visit the bathroom more often. This is another positive indicator that the treatment is working.
How Long Do Detox Symptoms Last?
Detox symptoms after acupuncture usually last for 24 to 48 hours, but everyone’s experience is different. Some people may feel fine immediately, while others may feel symptoms for a few days.
If the symptoms last longer than 72 hours, or if you’re concerned about how you’re feeling, it’s important to check in with your acupuncturist to discuss your experience and possibly adjust your treatment plan.
Interested in Toxin Testing? Our team can help, just contact us to get started.
Supporting Your Recovery: What to Expect After Acupuncture
While it’s normal to experience some discomfort after an acupuncture session, there are plenty of ways to support your body and reduce the intensity of detox symptoms. The key to a successful recovery is to give your body the care and attention it needs.
Hydration: Essential for Detoxification
Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to help your body process and eliminate toxins after acupuncture. Drinking water, detox tea, or liver detox tea can speed up the detox process and reduce symptoms like headaches and fatigue. These liquids flush out the toxins that have been released into your system, preventing them from lingering in your body.
For those looking for an extra detox boost, detox tea for the liver and detox cleanse tea are excellent options. These herbal teas support liver function, help your body further process toxins, and aid in digestion.
Examples of Teas to Support Detoxification:
- Dandelion Root Tea: Known for supporting liver function and aiding in digestion, this tea helps cleanse the body by flushing out toxins.
- Milk Thistle Tea: A popular choice for liver detoxification, milk thistle helps regenerate liver cells and improve overall liver health.
- Ginger and Turmeric Tea: Both ginger and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties and aid in digestion, making this tea an excellent choice for reducing inflammation and promoting detoxification.
- Peppermint Tea: While primarily known for digestive support, peppermint tea also helps reduce bloating and aids in the elimination of toxins.
- Green Tea: Rich in antioxidants, green tea supports the body’s natural detoxification process by enhancing liver function and boosting metabolism.
Rest: Letting Your Body Heal
Acupuncture works on deep energetic levels, and the body requires rest to process the changes effectively. After your session, prioritize rest and relaxation to give your body the time it needs to recover. This is especially important if you experience fatigue or emotional sensitivity.
What to Eat After Acupuncture for Optimal Recovery
The food you consume after acupuncture can play a significant role in supporting the detoxification process. Choosing foods that are easy on your digestive system and promote detoxification will allow your body to focus on healing.
Best Vegetables for Detoxing the Body
Here are some of the best vegetables to include in your diet post-acupuncture:
- Leafy Greens: Vegetables like spinach, kale, and arugula are rich in antioxidants and chlorophyll, which help detoxify the liver.
- Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower are excellent for detoxing the liver and promoting overall health.
- Beets: High in fiber and antioxidants, beets support liver function and help flush out toxins.
How Acupuncture Aids in Stress Reduction and Detoxification
One of the key benefits of acupuncture is its ability to lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress. If you’re suffering from chronic stress or even PTSD, combining acupuncture with a cortisol detox diet can help regulate stress hormone levels and restore balance to your body. Managing stress is an essential aspect of detoxification, as it reduces inflammation and promotes overall health.
Additional Holistic Approaches to Detoxification
While acupuncture is a powerful tool for detoxing the body, it works best when paired with other supportive practices. Integrating various holistic methods into your wellness routine can help you experience deeper and longer-lasting effects.
Herbs and Supplements for Detox After Acupuncture
Herbal supplements can work alongside acupuncture to enhance the detoxification process. Herbal remedies, such as liver detox tea and herbal detox formulas, support liver function, digestion, and the elimination of toxins.
How to Detox Adrenal Glands Naturally
For individuals experiencing adrenal fatigue, acupuncture combined with specific detox practices can be beneficial. The adrenal glands are responsible for producing stress hormones like cortisol, and they often become overworked due to chronic stress. A balanced approach to detox, including the use of herbs, acupuncture, and a cortisol detox diet, can help detox adrenal glands naturally and restore energy levels.
Acupuncture for Children: Detoxing Safely
Acupuncture is not just for adults—it can also be beneficial for children, especially those who need support with detoxification. Acupuncture can safely help children process and eliminate toxins, promoting overall health and balance.
Managing Emotional Detox Symptoms After Acupuncture
It’s common for people to experience emotional detoxification after an acupuncture session. Releasing pent-up emotions can feel overwhelming at first, but it is a positive sign of healing. Be sure to take care of your emotional well-being by resting, journaling, or talking to a trusted friend or professional if needed.
Emotional Sensitivity and Healing
Some individuals may feel tearful, irritable, or even euphoric after acupuncture. These emotional shifts are a natural part of the detox process and signal that your body is working to release emotional blockages. Consider incorporating mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga to support emotional balance as you go through this process.
Post-Acupuncture Self-Care Tips
In addition to diet, hydration, and rest, consider integrating self-care practices into your routine to support recovery after acupuncture. Gentle activities like walking, stretching, and light yoga can help keep your body’s energy flowing without overtaxing it.
Stretching and Light Movement
After acupuncture, gentle movement can help maintain the benefits of the treatment. Light stretching, particularly in areas where you may feel sore, can help release any remaining tension in your muscles and enhance circulation.
Avoiding Stimulants and Alcohol
Stimulants like caffeine and alcohol can interfere with the detox process. It’s best to avoid these for at least 24 hours post-treatment to allow your body to recover fully. Drinking alcohol can slow down the liver’s ability to detox, while caffeine can stimulate the nervous system and counteract the calming effects of acupuncture.
Conclusion
Detox symptoms after acupuncture are a natural part of the healing journey, and they indicate that your body is working to restore balance. While some of these symptoms can be uncomfortable, they are short-lived and pave the way for improved health and well-being. By supporting your body with proper hydration, nutrition, and rest, you can optimize the benefits of your acupuncture session.
At Red Leaf Wellness, we’re here to guide you through your detox journey with personalized acupuncture treatments and holistic support. Whether you’re looking to detox, reduce stress, or improve your overall health, our team is ready to help. Contact us today to schedule your next session and start your journey toward a healthier, more balanced life.
Our Experienced Practitioners:
Dr.Ac Lalonde 🇬🇧
“As a clinician and leader, I see myself not only as a caregiver but also as a teacher—empowering patients with the knowledge and tools they need to take charge of their health. By educating and guiding them, I can help transform their lives far beyond the treatment room, creating lasting wellness that they can carry with them. – Dr. Tammy Lalonde”
Caring for people is my true passion and one of life’s greatest callings. With years of experience as both a Paramedic and Acupuncturist, I’ve supported patients through obvious and invisible injuries alike. I’ve been there during moments of deep crisis—whether delivering babies in cars parked roadside, providing care at 30,000 feet aboard a domestic flight, or flying emergency medevacs over the Arabian desert. Through these experiences, I’ve learned not only how to care for those in urgent need but also how to recognize the long-term impact that lifestyle, diet, and fitness can have on overall health.
As my career has evolved, so has my focus. I now concentrate on helping more people earlier, preventing minor concerns from escalating into more complex and costly illnesses. A key part of this shift is my role in leading our Hormone Health program, which empowers patients to address hormonal imbalances that affect energy, mood, and overall well-being. This program has far-reaching impacts, not only improving individual lives but also strengthening the health of entire communities. By helping people regain balance, we’re preventing chronic diseases and fostering long-term wellness. Through a combination of my background in emergency medicine and women’s health, I offer a unique, integrative approach. I draw on the strengths of oriental medicine, along with the expertise of top practitioners, to deliver care that restores balance to the body, mind, and spirit.
My academic journey has allowed me to seamlessly blend oriental medicine with Western healthcare, creating a holistic approach to patient care. My expertise lies in navigating high-stress, complex situations, and I have a deep passion for managing care and treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD—especially among Armed Forces and Emergency Services personnel. In addition to my extensive background, I have advanced training in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) through Worldlink Medical, which enhances my ability to help patients achieve hormonal balance and long-term wellness. With a long-standing career spanning North America and the Middle East, I have been privileged to serve as a respected clinician, clinical educator, and fire and emergency medical dispatcher. I hold active licensure and registration with the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAA), the California Acupuncture Board, and the Alberta Herbalists Association (AHA). Additionally, I have served as a Board Director with the Alberta Pain Society and am a current member of the CAA Competence Committee.
Education:
- Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (DACM), American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Master of Science (MS) – Traditional Chinese Medicine, American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Master of Science (MS) – Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, cum laude, South Baylo University
- Bachelor of Science (BS) – Holistic Science, South Baylo University
- Diploma – Emergency Medical Technician (Paramedic), Augustana University
Licensure
- RAc – Registered Acupuncturist of the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAA)
- RH – Registered Herbalist of the Alberta Herbalists Association (AHA)
- LAc – Licensed Acupuncturist of the California Acupuncture Board
- Dipl.Ac – Diplomate of Acupuncture of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)
Dr.Ac Lalonde 🇬🇧
CEO, Acupuncture, Herbalism
“As a clinician and leader, I see myself not only...
Dr.Ac Masuda 🇬🇧 🇯🇵
Dr. Yoko Masuda is a master practitioner – skilled in the rare craft of Japanese style acupuncture – where she incorporates and tailors gentle needling, moxibustion (specific deep heat), therme (heat massage) and cupping into her acupuncture treatment plans. These skills, as well as her reputation for delivering tangible results, make her a sought-after provider, especially in the areas of pain management, sports injuries, orthopaedic injuries and emotional health. Yoko firmly believes that the mind and the body are intertwined in healing and she continually advocates for a healthy lifestyle alongside of the care she provides.
Yoko received her acupuncture degree in Japan and, after working at several clinics in Tokyo, she accepted a staff acupuncturist position with the world renowned Cirque du Soleil touring show. For nearly twenty years, she went on to travel the far reaches of the globe, working on several other productions, and earning the respect of an international group of artists, staff and athletes before eventually selecting Edmonton for her permanent clinical practice. As a former high school physical education teacher, and also as an alumnus of the Japanese national rhythmic gymnastics team (where she competed internationally on numerous occasions), she has amassed an impressive background in sports therapy and physical education, uniquely positioning her to address all manner of orthopedic and performance related concerns.
Outside of work, Yoko enjoys travelling, the outdoors, and spending time with her husband and two elementary-aged daughters.
Education:
- Diploma of Acupuncture, Hanada College, Tokyo, Japan
Licensure:
- RAc, College and Association of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAA)
Fluency: 🇬🇧 – English | 🇯🇵 – Japanese
Dr.Ac Masuda 🇬🇧 🇯🇵
Acupuncture
Dr. Yoko Masuda is a master practitioner – skilled in...
Dr.Ac Winton 🇬🇧
Helping people comes naturally to Michelle! As a highly skilled Acupuncturist, Massage Therapist, and Advanced Care Paramedic she is widely recognized for developing unique care plans which draw on her knowledge and therapeutic touch gained across each of these specialized disciplines. Having over twenty years of combined expertise in caring for her patients, Michelle has had a front row seat to observe how stress and emotion affect the mind and body. Complementing her acupuncture services at Red Leaf Wellness, Michelle offers a variety of therapeutic and relaxation massage therapies, including pregnancy massage, myofascial release and myofascial cupping.
Michelle began her health career as a massage therapist, graduating the 2200hr Massage Program at Macewan University in 2001. Being active in competitive sport in her youth, Michelle understood the benefits of massage on sport performance, recovery and injury prevention. She subsequently branched into emergency care and became an Advanced Care Paramedic where she was able to offer a calming presence in stressful, emergent situations. Michelle has always believed that soft skills, an extra moment spent with family, or a hand to hold on the way to the hospital, can be as healing as the specific medical interventions themselves. Working as a Paramedic Michelle saw, and began to question, how it is that people differ in disease and the aging process and why the same drug benefited one person, but not the other. Her lifelong learning journey had her begin to look for these answers in the time-tested practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Acupuncture, thus kicking off another quest for knowledge at MacEwan University’s Acupuncture Program.
Education:
- Diploma – Acupuncture, Macewan University
- Diploma – Emergency Medical Technician (Paramedic), Augustana University
- Honors standings
- Certificate – Massage Therapy Grant MacEwan College
Licensure:
- RAc, College of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAA)
- RMT, National Health Practitioners of Canada (NHPC)
- ACP, Alberta College of Paramedics
Dr.Ac Winton 🇬🇧
Acupuncture, Massage
Helping people comes naturally to Michelle! As a highly skilled...
Dr.Ac Wiebe 🇬🇧
Olivia Wiebe is a dedicated practitioner of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, offering a compassionate and holistic approach to wellness. Graduating from MacEwan University in 2017 with a diploma in Acupuncture, Olivia’s journey into this ancient healing practice began during her high school years, where she first experienced its transformative effects. This initial exposure led her to a profound understanding of the body’s complex interplay with lifestyle and environment, shaping her therapeutic approach.
Equipped with deep knowledge in yin/yang theory, 5-element theory, meridian channels, and organ diagnosis, Olivia views health as a harmonious balance between physical, emotional, and environmental factors. Her commitment to expanding her expertise led her to pursue an additional 2.5 years of study in Chinese Herbology at Pacific Rim College in Victoria, BC. This rigorous training, coupled with her experience in Western Herbology, has enabled her to integrate a rich tapestry of herbal wisdom into her practice.
Olivia’s therapeutic focus includes alleviating aches and pains, addressing insomnia, stress, and anxiety, and enhancing women’s health, among other areas. She is passionate about assisting her patients in every step of their healing journey, regardless of their familiarity with Acupuncture or Chinese Medicine.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Olivia is an avid nature enthusiast, often found embracing the tranquility of the river valley or indulging in forest bathing with her beloved dog. She is also a skilled pianist, classically trained through the Royal Conservatory, and has shared her love for music by teaching piano lessons for over a decade.
At our clinic, Olivia Wiebe stands as a testament to the power of integrative care, combining her rich knowledge of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine with a deep-rooted passion for natural healing. Whether you are new to Acupuncture or seeking advanced care, Olivia welcomes all questions and looks forward to guiding you on your path to wellness.
Education
- Diploma of Acupuncture, MacEwan University
Certifications/Licensure
- Registered Acupuncturist – College of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAA)
Dr.Ac Wiebe 🇬🇧
Acupuncture, Herbalism
Olivia Wiebe is a dedicated practitioner of Acupuncture and Traditional...
Dr.Ac Kossowan 🇬🇧 🇫🇷
Dr. Jason Kossowan is a dedicated and licensed Doctor of Acupuncture with the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta, and a distinguished graduate of the Acupuncture program at MacEwan University. Jason’s path to healthcare began with his passion for Chinese martial arts, especially tai chi, which he has practiced since 2005. His journey in martial arts led to a profound appreciation for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and a desire to integrate these classical techniques into solutions for modern health challenges.
Jason is particularly drawn to the treatment of cardiovascular and neurological conditions, as well as sports medicine, where he combines precision with a deep respect for the body’s natural healing processes. His approach is integrative and patient-centered, focusing on meaningful outcomes and a collaborative model of care that bridges Eastern and Western perspectives.
At Red Leaf Wellness, Jason is committed to creating a therapeutic experience that respects the body’s innate wisdom and adaptability. He actively engages patients through tailored treatment plans that address their unique needs, while also exploring the broader health benefits of TCM practices.
Outside the clinic, you can find Jason refining his tai chi practice or enjoying a board game—especially the cooperative ones that bring people together.
Education
- Diploma of Acupuncture, MacEwan University
Certifications/Licensure
- Registered Acupuncturist – College of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAA)
Dr.Ac Kossowan 🇬🇧 🇫🇷
Acupuncture
Dr. Jason Kossowan is a dedicated and licensed Doctor of...
