Up to one fifth of those with respiratory conditions such as persistent cough, asthma or bronchitis seek acupuncture for the management of symptoms of respiratory illness. A series of acupuncture points are used to strengthen the functioning of the lungs to clear air passageways and to expel obstructions caused by external toxins or internal illness.

Acupuncture can be combined with Chinese herbs to clear inflammation in the chest and to stimulate the repair of lung tissue.