About Chinese Medicine
For thousands of years and in many cultures around the world, Chinese medicine has been used as a primary health care system. Through careful observation, acupuncturists study each individual’s health concerns, tailoring each treatment based on the unique needs of each person. Treatment can consist of the use of needles, medicinal herbs, massage, and other therapies. Nutritional and lifestyle changes are also a critical aspect of TCM treatments.
Needling
Acupuncturists activate the body’s energy by first identifying a person’s current health needs. Then, they insert sterile, thin, stainless steel needles into the skin at precise acupuncture points. There are over 300 identified acupoints, and they are connected to a network of energy systems that relate to the entire body. Most people picture a large hypodermic used for blood draws when they think of needles. Acupuncture needles are much smaller, solid (not hollow), and don’t have cutting edges.
Herbal Medicine
Like a well-formulated recipe, Chinese herbal formulas use anywhere from just one to more than a dozen herbs. Herbal medicine can safely treat anything from the common cold or sprained muscle, to complex and chronic diseases. Herbal medicinals, when prescribed by a trained professional, have few side effects. The safety and efficacy of herbs is monitored by the major manufacturers, which adhere to international standards known as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
Therapeutic Massage
Many Americans have experienced massage, often with the intent of reducing stress and relaxing the muscles. The Chinese system of massage, known as Tui Na, also helps reduce stress and muscle tension. However, it is based on Chinese medical theory related to acupuncture points and energy meridians, with the goal of treating specific medical disorders.
Other Therapies
Chinese medicine includes several other effective, although less well-known healing therapies, including Cupping, Gua Sha, and Moxibustion. These therapies are applied to the surface of the body, effecting the skin, muscles, and tissues. Cupping is the use of glass or bamboo cups, safely adhered to specific areas of the skin using an air vacuum. Cupping helps many issues, including common colds and sore muscles. Gua Sha is a simple technique, where a patient’s skin is stimulated and blood circulation increased by rubbing an object (like a spoon) over an area, using massage oil for comfort. Gua Sha, like cupping, is commonly used for chronic pain and the common cold. Moxibustion utilizes the herb mugwort (or Ai Ye), which is burnt on or near the skin using protective cream. Moxibustion warms the body and moves areas of congestion, reducing symptoms related to many conditions, including menstrual diseases, allergies, and digestive complaints.