Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine

The general theory of acupuncture is based on the premise that patterns of energy flow through the body and are essential for good health. Disruptions in the flow of energy are believed to be responsible for health imbalances. Acupuncture involves the stimulation of anatomical locations on the skin by a variety of procedures, such as needling and moxibustion. In addition, acupuncturists often recommend specialized exercises and herbal formulas. Today, more than 1 million people in the United States use acupuncture for the treatment of conditions such as: nausea, addiction, pain, digestive issues, fatigue, pulmonary problems, skin conditions, gynecological disorders, fertility, stress insomnia and anxiety.

Herbal medicine serves as the historical ancestor to many of the prescription drugs we use today. Aspirin, for example, was originally found in white willow bark and later synthesized from the same chemical in meadowsweet. And the Mexican yam served as an early basis for the birth control pill. Herbal medicines may be made from the whole plant or from parts of the plant such as bark, fruit, stem, root, or seed. They may be purchased in fresh, dried, tincture, pill, or capsule format. Traditionally, herbs have been helpful in treating a variety of ailments including pain, GI imbalances, mental health, fatigue, stress, and reproductive care. Herbs also provide immune enhancement and promotion of overall good health. Your herbalist will recommend specific formulas appropriate to your individual conditions and constitution.

Learn more about our acupuncture and herbal specialists, Jeannie Bianchi, LAc and Michelle Kuroda, LAc