How many days does it usually take for acupuncture to treat dampness syndrome?

Aug 11, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, the number of days required for acupuncture to address dampness depends on the severity of the condition. If the dampness is mild, improvement is generally seen after 7–10 days of acupuncture. If the dampness is severe, acupuncture may be needed for 15–30 days or even longer. To enhance the effectiveness of acupuncture in removing dampness, a light diet should be maintained during treatment, with reduced consumption of raw, cold, and greasy foods to avoid worsening internal dampness.

Generally, the number of days required for acupuncture treatment of dampness depends on the severity of the condition. If the dampness is mild, improvement can usually be seen after 7-10 days of acupuncture. If the dampness is severe, treatment may require 15-30 days or even longer. Detailed explanations are as follows:

If the dampness is mild and only causes slight limb fatigue and slightly greasy tongue coating, acupuncture treatment typically focuses on points that strengthen the spleen and remove dampness. With consistent treatment for 7-10 days, discomfort symptoms will gradually alleviate, and the effect of eliminating dampness will be relatively evident.

When the dampness is severe and symptoms such as significant heaviness in the body, abdominal distension, loose stools, and thick, greasy tongue coating appear, the dampness has accumulated deeply within the body. Acupuncture will require a longer duration to gradually regulate the function of the spleen and stomach and promote the elimination of dampness, possibly requiring 15-30 days or even longer in some cases.

To enhance the effectiveness of acupuncture in removing dampness, it is important to maintain a light diet during treatment, avoid cold and greasy foods, and refrain from consuming items that may worsen internal dampness. Additionally, engaging in moderate physical activities such as brisk walking or yoga can help promote blood circulation and assist in expelling dampness.

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