Chinese Medicine 

Ancient Art and Science

What is Chinese Medicine? 

Chinese medicine is an ancient art based on thousands of years of study and practice. One of the oldest surviving texts Yellow Emperor's Canon of Internal Medicine, or the Huang Di Nei Jing, dates back to about 2,500 B.C.   While the actual written text is only dated back to 1,000 B.C., it is thought that it represents an older verbal tradition. A Chinese medicine practitioner is trained in the art and science of acupuncture, moxibustion, herbal medicine, dietetics and tui na (a type of bodywork).

Much of Chinese medicine theory is based on Daoism.  Daoism is a philosophy that emphasizes living in harmony with nature. It advocates following simple practices like eating whole, simple foods, moderation in all things, and getting adequate rest, and a balance of movement and stillness to maintain a healthy and contented life. It is understood in Chinese medicine that health is not simply the absence of disease, but rather living in optimal balance and resilience. It is truly a holistic medicine that incorporates not just body, mind and spirit, but also our environment and the balance of the internal and external worlds. 

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient medical practice that stimulates healing responses by inserting very fine needles into specific points on the body. Acupuncture points lie along meridians, or pathways along and inside the body. The action of needle insertion along these pathways can be compared to releasing a dam from a river so the water (or energy) can flow more smoothly. From a western scientific perspective, evidence demonstrates that acupuncture stimulates nerves and releases endorphins and enkephalins which create a feeling of euphoria, relieve pain and decrease inflammation.
 
I use both insertive and non-insertive ‘needles’ in my practice. Non-insertive needles, or contact needles, do not break the skin. They are larger in size and have a blunted tip. The needle is placed on acupuncture points and stimulates the points from the surface. Stimulation of a point on the skin is sufficient to improve circulation and promote healing. Non-insertive needles are ideal for children and sensitive people. 

Moxibustion

Moxibustion is a technique that involves the burning of the herb artemisia vulgaris, or mugwort, on or near acupuncture points. Moxibustion stimulates healing by increasing the flow of Qi and strengthening the blood. It can be performed in several ways, either by burning a compressed stick of mugwort above the skin or placing the powdered herb directly on the skin and burning it, putting it out before the heat burns the skin. 
 Moxabustion is warming to the acupuncture channels and therefore to the body; it is often experienced by the patient as a pleasant warmth. The warmth of moxibustion can also help with pain by increasing blood flow and decreasing inflammation. Moxabustion has also been demonstrated to increase immunity by increasing the white blood cell count in the body. 

Herbal Medicine

Herbal formulas work very well in conjunction with acupuncture treatment for added therapeutic effect. Chinese herbal medicine is a sophisticated system based on thousands of years of empirical knowledge with many texts dedicated to the art. Herbs can be used to successfully help treat everything from a sore throat to autoimmunity. There are several thousands of herbs in the Chinese herbal medicinary, of which several hundred are commonly used. Herbal formulas contain natural materials derived from plants, minerals, and some insects and animal products. The large majority of Chinese herbs are plants and many can be considered food. The Chinese herbal formulary is diverse and contains all parts of various plants including leaf, bark, stem, root, rhizome, fruit, resin, flower, pollen and seed. Seaweeds, mushrooms, insects, minerals and gelatins are also considered Chinese herbs. 
 
Herbs are prepared in several forms, including bulk, granules, pills and powders.  More contemporary companies have made herbal formulas into capsule or tablet forms for more convenient consumption. Chinese herbal formulas can be tailored to fit a particular person and the patterns that they exhibit and are therefore very effective. They typically have minimal side effects and can be made compatible with most other supplements and medications, but it is important for me to know all of the supplements and medications you are on (including over the counter medications) in order to make sure that is true for you. 

I am a true lover of herbs, and I understand herbs as an expression of the earth's love and compassion for humanity and all sentient beings. I truly believe that what you need grows up around you, so pay attention to the weeds (herbs) in your yard!