Acupuncture

Relaxing into wholeness

What is Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine?
Classical Chinese Medicine is a system of healthcare that is based upon an understanding of the cycles of nature as experienced by the human being. The theoretical foundation of the medicine is traced back to China’s Han dynasty, circa 200 B.C., but the wisdom this tradition represents is timeless. Therapies are individually tailored to your constitution and health condition. The methods employed by Chinese medicine can be divided into two categories: energy therapy, which includes acupuncture, moxibustion (heat therapy), cupping, and Chinese-style massage; and internal medicine, which includes Chinese herbal medicine and diet therapy.

Energy therapy engages your innate vital energy, called “qi” in Chinese (pronounced “chee”), through the application of a variety of techniques. You recline in a comfortable position (usually laying down on a massage table) during these procedures.

Acupuncture entails the insertion of needles that are sterile, single-use, very fine, and solid (unlike a syringe) into specific locations (acupoints) along the body to a depth that averages around 1/8 to 1/4 inch, but varies from very superficial (less than 1 mm) to deeper (1 or more inches). Acupuncture sometimes entails a momentary pricking sensation, which ceases once the skin has been breached. After insertion, a dull, achy sensation is often elicited through manipulation of the needle – this indicates the activation of your qi.

Moxibustion is the burning of mugwort (Artemesia Vulgaris) or “moxa” in various forms of preparation either directly in small quantities or indirectly over acupoints. The warmth generated by moxa is sympathetic to the human body’s energy system and is very comfortable and therapeutic. Other heat therapies include infrared heat lamps.

Cupping is the placing of glass suction cups on the skin, and is used to draw out toxins from the deeper tissues into the bloodstream where they can be properly eliminated. It effectively and efficiently increases qi and blood circulation locally and sometimes results in slight reddening or bruising of the skin.

Chinese Massage, or tuina, is similar to Western therapeutic massage but emphasizes balancing the circulation of qi and utilizes unique techniques and tools. It is employed for specific conditions of musculoskeletal imbalance as a complement to acupuncture.

Internal medicine uses substances with energetic properties that balance your body’s qi, blood, and body fluids to improve the functions of the internal organs.

Herbal Medicine employs specially formulated decoctions (teas), powders, and pills – composed of plant, mineral, and animal substances. Herbal decoctions are usually the strongest smelling and/or tasting, and are the most effective form of administration. Powders and pills are simpler to prepare and often useful for chronic ailments that require long-term therapy. A branch of herbal medicine treats external problems such as injuries and skin ailments using pastes, plasters, and liniments. I have over 220 bulk herbs in my pharmacy here in Eugene.

Diet Therapy involves restrictions and additions to the patient’s daily food intake. Chinese diet therapy employs an understanding of how various types of foods are helpful or harmful for different constitutions and health conditions.