About Acupuncture & Chinese Herbs

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles into the body at specific points shown as effective in the treatment of specific health problems. These points have been mapped by the Chinese over a period of two thousand years. Recently, electromagnetic research has confirmed their locations.

Western medical professionals still struggle to scientifically explain how acupuncture works. In 1985, a French medical team demonstrated the movement of radioactive tracers along pathways in the human body that match the Chinese acupuncture meridians. Other tests have shown acupuncture stimulates endorphin release in humans and animals. Studies also prove acupuncture promotes relaxation, improves the function of the immune system and stimulates the central and autonomic nervous systems.

According to Chinese medical philosophy, acupuncture restores balance and smooth circulation to the energy flow, or Qi, in the body. Qi (pronounced "chee") flows through the body via invisible pathways called meridians. When the Qi is flowing smoothly, there is neither pain nor signs of illness.

Acupuncture is not like getting a shot where some discomfort may be caused from having a foreign substance injected into the body. The very fine sterilized needles used by acupuncturists are about as small as a single strand of hair, less than one-quarter the thickness of a hypodermic needle. While most people feel nothing at all once the single-use acupuncture needles are inserted into specific points on the body, some may feel increased warmth, a slight ache or perhaps a tingling sensation. In all, acupuncture is a relaxing experience. So much so that some people even fall asleep while the needles are working!

The number of treatments needed varies by the person and the condition being treated. Generally, five to 15 treatments will resolve most acute problems. Chronic degenerative conditions may require treatment over a period of time. Regardless of the condition, treatments to maintain health and balance are helpful.

Chinese Herbs

The real power behind TCM lies in the herbal prescriptions. These are customized for each patient using from one to as many as 18 natural herbs that typically are derived from plants. Herbs can be taken in several forms. The most potent form of herbal medicine is the decoction, which is prepared by simmering selected herbs. Concentrated powders, which are dissolved into warm water to make a tea, and herbal pills, can also be prescribed. Many people prefer the powders or pills for convenience.

Herbal medicine is the main modality or treatment method within Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM. TCM is the world's oldest, continually practiced, professional medicine. Its written history stretches back not less than 2,500 years and its practice is undoubtedly much older than that. Although acupuncture was the first Chinese modality to gain wide acceptance in the West, Chinese herbal medicine is quickly establishing itself as one of the most popular and effective alternative therapies in the West.