News from the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic

Healthy Snacks and Lunches for Back to School

2010-08-28T17:39:00.000-04:00

By Junie Norfleet, L.Ac.

The start of school brings the challenge of a healthy snack or lunch that is easily packed. Below you will find some suggestions, but first some information on the systems of the Spleen and Stomach.

The Spleen and Stomach systems are an integral part of digestion in Chinese medicine. The Stomach system must have some "heat" to begin the digestive process. Too many hot, spicy foods can create too much "heat" and disrupt the digestive process. The Spleen system can become depleted if we consume too many "cold" items. "Cold" can be temperature cold, or energetically cold. For example, raw foods and soy products are energetically cold.

The Spleen system is strengthened by the taste of sweet. Sweet from a Chinese medicine perspective is the sweetness of rice. In our culture, many people would not recognize that rice is sweet, because we are so accustomed to the sweetness of refined sugar. Eating rice, sweet potatoes, beets, and carrots will strengthen the spleen.

From a Chinese medicine perspective, it is strengthening to the digestive system for foods to be lightly cooked. A weak digestive system will not be able to absorb nutrients adequately, so it aids the digestive process to begin the break down of foods by lightly cooking them.

Preparing a bento box can be a fun way of introducing less "traditional" foods into the lunch. Bento boxes were designed in Japan and are becoming more popular in North America recently. A bento lunch is a compact, balanced, visually appealing meal packed in a box. There are many websites that discuss bento boxes. They include ideas for taking advantage of leftovers when preparing a bento box and elaborate or simple meals that can be prepared ahead of time. This website has a lot of great ideas that can give you inspiration for lunches: click here

Fresh vegetables are great fillers for bento boxes. Cutting them into special shapes can make the food more attractive to a picky eater. Carrots, celery, broccoli, cauliflower, and green peppers are easy to add to bento boxes. Add a small container of almond butter (less oil than using peanut butter), hummus, or Lemon Tahini dressing (quarter cup tahini, 2 Tbs extra virgin olive oil, 1 clove garlic, juice of 1 lemon, half tsp tamari, third cup water), as a dipping sauce. (This recipe and the recipe for Apricot Kudzu Custard below are from Feeding the Whole Family, Recipes for Babies, Young Children, and Their Parents by Cynthia Lair.)

Healthy snacks can be made from leftovers: just mix cooked rice with leftover vegetables. For small children, a fun snack (or breakfast) can be made by warming cooked rice and sweet potatoes (or winter squash in the winter) in some rice milk and adding some walnuts or seeds to add texture. Below is a recipe for a seed mixture that is great to add as a topping for vegetables or just to eat as a snack.

Take the seeds that are the same physical sizes and dry fry or toast them. (To dry fry, just put the seeds in a frying pan without oil and heat until the seeds pop.)

Seed Mixture

Quarter cup of each of the following:
black sesame
white sesame
gold flax
brown flax
pumpkin seeds
unsalted sunflower seeds

Mix all these together after dry frying.

You can learn to use your left over rice to make sushi rolls. Cucumber, carrot, asparagus, and avocado can be added to make sushi interesting. Sushi rolls make a great addition to a bento box.

Nuts are healthy snacks. Walnuts and almonds are better choices, because they are not as oily as peanuts and cashews. Overeating oily nuts can congest the liver.

According to Paul Pitchford in Healing With Whole Foods, goat milk is more easily digested than dairy products, because the curd is softer and the fat globules are smaller. Add rosemary and/or basil (or spices of your choosing) to goat cheese and spread it on rice crackers. Berries and other fruits can be easily added to goat yogurt for a sweet snack. The darker the berry, the more it nourishes blood, so blue and black berries are excellent choices.

Fruits are also good snacks, with local fruits being better choices. Remember that fruit sugar is still sugar, and that too much sugar can deplete the Spleen system.

Another sweet snack is Apricot Kudzu Custard:
Prep time 5-10 minutes
Makes 4 servings
2 Tbs Kudzu
2 cups apricot juice (or any juice of your choice)
2 tsp tahini
1 tsp vanilla extract

Dissolve the kudzu in cold or room temperature apricot juice. Put mixture in a small pan over medium heat, stirring constantly. As mixture simmers, it becomes clear and thick. Once this happens, remove from heat. Add tahini and vanilla; mix well. Serve immediately, custard will get rubbery if allowed to cool to room temperature.

Have fun with these suggestions and invite your child to learn how to make some of these snacks, too.

Lifestyle Changes Can Cut Breast Cancer Rates

2010-07-21T08:35:00.001-04:00

Mary Cissy Majebe, O.M.D.

This was the headline in the March 26, 2010 USA Today. As Western science evolves, it confirms knowledge handed down for centuries in Chinese medicine (CM). Western science continues to affirm CM knowledge, rather than refuting its wisdom. For example, CM linked the Kidney Qi to the bones long before Western science taught us that the kidneys secrete the hormone erythropoietin, which stimulates bone marrow to produce red blood cells, long before we knew the connection between calcium and kidney function.

These headlines lead me to reflect on the causes of disease from a Chinese medicine perspective. In Chinese medicine, diseases are generally attributed to three primary causes:
1) Internal Pathogenic Factors
2) External Pathogenic Factors
3) Miscellaneous Factors.

External Pathogenic Factors are the six environmental factors: cold, heat, wind, damp,dryness and summer heat. Bacterial conditions can be transmitted via the wind, and this wind was the "cause of 100's of diseases" based on the oldest Chinese medicine text, the Nei Jing, written in 220 BCE. I am always amazed that the Chinese knew of air-borne conditions long before access to the "scientific tools" that now confirm their knowledge.

Internal Pathogenic Factors relate to those things that we are consuming on a daily basis. This has to do with not only the foods that we are consuming, but also the emotions that we are consuming. These are the lifestyle factors that are becoming more of a focus in many of our lives.

Miscellaneous Factors include genetics and also the toxic influences that are now proliferating in our world. We know that there are onco-genes that are associated with a greater likelihood of a cancer diagnosis. I believe that we are just beginning to scratch the surface of understanding the toxicity of chemicals, pesticides and other noxious substances in our environment.

SO, HOW DO WE PROTECT OURSELVES FROM CANCER??? This question could be assigned the same answer as the question of, HOW DO WE PROTECT OUR CHILDREN FROM HURT AND PAIN? We do the best we can with what we have.

We exercise, pray, do progressive relaxation or meditate.
We eat as organically and clean as possible. Yet, we are still subjected to chemical and toxic influences daily. So, how do we negotiate this journey of life amidst all of the perils that lie ahead?

We wake each morning, knowing that it is a gift to be alive and walking and sharing this journey with each other. We acknowledge that our time here is limited, and we embrace each precious moment. We meet each other with love and hopefully learn to meet ourselves with love and acceptance.

Herbal Medicine: The Mulberry Tree In Chinese Herbology

2010-07-14T08:29:00.001-04:00

David Treviño, L.Ac.

One of the most useful plants in Chinese herbal medicine is the white mulberry plant, Morus alba. Since ancient times, the Chinese have used this plant for raising silkworms, which utilize the tree's leaves as their main source of food. Chinese medical practitioners have used several parts of this plant for centuries to treat various health conditions. The Chinese term for the mulberry plant is sang. The plant parts used in Chinese herbology include the fruit (sang shen), leaves (sang ye), and the root bark (sang bai pi).

Additionally, the silkworm fecal matter (can sha) created after the worms have eaten the leaves is an important medicinal derived from this plant. Each of the plant parts has unique characteristics and diverse therapeutic uses.

Mulberry fruit is a sweet, gentle, and cooling blood tonic that enhances the nourishing, cooling, and moistening (Yin) aspects of the Liver and Kidneys. Chinese medicine utilizes this herb to treat deficient conditions such as anemia, dry constipation, and the premature graying of hair. The ability for this fruit to treat deficient conditions may be due to the fact that it contains significant amounts of vitamin A, B1, B2, C, protein, lipids, and anthocyanins.

According to Subhuti Dharmananda, president of the Institute for Traditional Medicine (ITM), the high levels of anthocyanins found in mulberry fruit, "may improve blood circulation and other body functions to alleviate many symptoms that arise under deficiency conditions." In China today, Morus fruit is bottled as a beverage and marketed to improve the immune system, enhance general health, and promote longevity.

Morus leaves are sweet and cooling like the fruit, but also have a bitter flavor. The leaves enter the Liver and Lung meridians, where the cooling and bitter properties remove externally contracted heat conditions (as occurring with a cold or the flu) with symptoms such as fever, sore throat, headache, sore-watery eyes and cough.

Mulberry leaves are also used to stop bleeding in patients who are vomiting blood. Western studies have shown that decoctions made from fresh mulberry leaf can inhibit several bacteria including Staphyloccocus aureus, Escherichi coli, and hemolytic streptococcus. New research shows that mulberry leaf extracts may play a role in the management and treatment of diabetes.

Similar to the leaves of this plant, Morus root bark is sweet and cold in nature and enters the Lung meridian. The difference between Morus leaves and the root bark is that the latter is indicated for coughs that have hot phlegm. In Chinese medicine, hot phlegm occurs when the body's physiological fluids in the Lung are heated and congealed in reaction to a pathogen. The phlegm can then turn white, yellow, green, or even gray depending on the severity of the heat.

Morus root bark has the ability to help the body transform the pathological phlegm with a downward directing function, which settles coughs and wheezing and facilitates urination to eliminate excess fluid. In fact, this herb is commonly used for the treatment of edema, especially when it is around the eyes.

According to John Chen, author of Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology, the water and alcohol extracts of Morus root bark "have a marked diuretic effect by increasing the excretion of water, sodium chloride, and potassium." Other pharmacological effects of this herb include inhibiting bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, and Baccillus dysenteriae.

Because of its sweet, acrid and warm qualities, the silkworm fecal matter is effective for the treatment of pain in the extremities and abdomen caused by Wind and Dampness. Chinese medicine considers this type of pain in the extremities as Wind-Damp Painful Obstructive Syndrome. Wind refers to the tight or pulling nature of the pain (like a spasm) and the dampness to the swelling in the joints, which is often exacerbated by damp environments or damp weather. The silkworm's fecal matter has a warm quality, is able to dry the damp obstruction and the acrid quality helps increase the blood flow to eliminate muscle aches and pain.

Believe it or not, silkworm fecal matter is also used in Chinese medicine to harmonize the stomach. Its sweet flavor harmonizes the stomach, and the warm and pungent properties help eliminate any fluids that may be obstructing the normal flow and function of the stomach. For these reasons, this herb can stop abdominal cramping and transform the dampness that is inherent in diarrhea and vomiting. Finally, this herb is commonly used to treat itchy skin and eczema. The acrid and warm properties help bring blood to the skin, dry the secretions and promote healing.

Morus albae is a unique plant in Chinese herbal medicine. This plant's fruit, leaves, root bark, and the silkworm fecal matter created from the leaves, all have unique characteristics. They have been used effectively for centuries and currently are important herbs in Chinese medicine. Morus albae's diverse therapeutic ability to treat a range of conditions make this a remarkable plant in the Chinese pharmacopeia.

References:

Chen J., Chen, T. Chinese Herbal Medicine and Pharmacology. City of Industry, CA: Art of Medicine Press, 2001.

Bensky, D., Clavey,S., Stöger,E. Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica. Seattle, Washington: Eastland Press, 2004.

Dharmananda, Subhuti, Ph.D., Fruit as Medicine. Director, Institute for Traditional Medicine, 2004.

Murata K, Yatsunami K, Fukuda E, et al. "Antihyperglycemic effects of propolis mixed with mulberry leaf extract on patients with type 2 diabetes." Altern Ther Health Med, May-June 2004;10(3):78-9.

Treating Pain: Fibromyalgia

2010-07-08T20:32:00.004-04:00

Karen Litton, L.Ac.

Various rheumatology studies have estimated that 3 to 6 million Americans suffer from fibromyalgia. That is one in every 50 Americans. Over 80% of sufferers are women over 50 years of age. The prevalence of fibromyalgia is second only to osteoarthritis among rheumatic ailments. The pervasive pain of fibromyalgia is challenging to both the patient and doctor.

Western medicine does not know exactly what causes it. There are no diagnostic tests such as x-rays or blood tests to detect it. The symptoms of it may overlap with the symptoms of other conditions. These are some of the reasons it is difficult to diagnose from a Western standpoint.

Fibromyalgia is characterized by wide-spread muscle pain and stiffness. This pain can be accompanied by fatigue, non-restorative sleep, balance issues, dizziness, and pain that is worse with stress/physical activity/and weather changes, especially cold and damp. Some degree of pain is always present. It can be in the hips, low back, shoulders or legs. The condition can be triggered by emotional stress, medical illness and trauma.

Fibromyalgia is also thought to be associated with a variety of other symptoms such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, dysmenorrhea, and restless leg syndrome. Western medicine treats these conditions with lifestyle modifications, drug therapy and other modalities.

Numerous Western research studies have evaluated the effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of fibromyalgia. In June of 2006, a Mayo Clinic study found that acupuncture significantly reduced the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Because Chinese medicine takes an individual approach to diagnosis, there are numerous possibilities as to why a person develops this type of pain syndrome.

Chinese medicine does not treat a specific disease known as "fibromyalgia" per se. What it does treat is the unique expression of fibromyalgia that is particular to each individual based on their own signs and symptoms. Through a detailed analysis, your acupuncturist will consider your combined group of symptoms and how they are expressed in the body.

If an individual's sleep and dizziness issues are accompanied by pervasive pain in the muscles and joints of the body, your practitioner will design a treatment plan focusing on the underlying cause of this set of symptoms. Another individual could have an entirely different set of conditions that are combined together.

A Chinese medicine practitioner will evaluate the energy flow in the different meridians where the imbalances are thought to arise, looking for areas of deficiency and stagnation. This energy flow is known as qi, and it flows through meridians, which correspond to a particular organ or a group of organs. Too much, too little or blocked qi can lead to health problems. Thus Chinese medicine will have a different diagnosis for each individual evaluated, with an individual treatment plan for each.

While adjusting the circulation of qi and blood through an acupuncture treatment, your practitioner may also want you to include herbal medicine, as appropriate. Particular herbs can be chosen, which also help to relieve the pain and address your system's imbalances. Other therapies that might be included are heat, massage and cupping. Cupping is a suction technique used on muscles to move the qi or help to release the muscle groups. All of these additional modalities can help to reduce pain.

There are a number of things which you can do on your own to help with the pain in the body. One activity is to walk. Walking moves the qi in our Liver meridian, which is responsible for overall qi flow in our body. Even though the pain may tell us that moving will aggravate the symptoms, generally an even walking pace and a walk outside will do a lot to move our qi stagnation, which ultimately helps relieve some of the pain symptoms.

Your practitioner will also talk with you about changing what is stressing you in your life. Looking at your stress level and determining how to reduce it in your life is important. When we are stressed, we tighten and decrease the circulation of the qi and blood in our bodies. Stress also uses up the body's resources that could be used for healing. Yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and stretching are therefore helpful.

Specific stretches can help to relieve painful areas of the body. If your pain is in your shoulders, for example, there is an easy stretch to help keep the shoulders open. Take a rope or a long belt and grasp it in your hands. Act as if you want to pull the rope in two, creating a tension in the rope. Then, with the rope taut, hold your hands in front of your body and slowly raise your arms overhead and back behind your body, continuing to hold the rope in your hands. Make sure that the rope is long enough, so that this is an easy motion to make. Keep your arms completely straight, without bending the elbows. Doing several of these stretches over the head, back behind the body, and to the front again will open up the flow of energy in your arms, thus helping relieve the pain.

In addition, there are a couple of liniments available at the clinic that can be rubbed into the shoulders or hips or knees to provide some pain relief. Two of these are White Flower Oil and Dit Da ointment.

Another area your practitioner may focus upon is your diet. You may be asked to fill out a diet sheet. This is an examination of what foods make up your meals. For example, if we eat a diet, which is more acidic (such as tomatoes, sugar, etc.), then this can add to the heat and stagnation in our joints. Eating a more alkaline diet, with more vegetables and other foods, may be suggested.

All of these different modalities can complement each other in achieving relief from this complex illness.

The Relaxation Response

2010-06-30T14:20:00.001-04:00

By David Treviño, L.Ac.

Several years ago, I had the privilege of meeting Herbert Benson M.D., research cardiologist, professor, author, and founder of Harvard's Mind/Body Medical Institute. Dr. Benson coined the term Relaxation Response. It was through his work that I learned about the scientific benefits of relaxation.

According to Dr. Benson, eliciting the Relaxation Response is extremely beneficial as it counteracts the physiological effects of stress and the fight or flight response. In his book The Relaxation Response, Dr. Benson explains that regular elicitation of the Relaxation Response has been shown to be an effective treatment for a wide range of stress related disorders. The Relaxation Response in essence is the opposite response to the fight or flight response.

The "fight or flight" or stress response was originally discovered by the Harvard physiologist Dr. Walter B. Cannon (1871-1945). It occurs naturally when we perceive that we are under excessive pressure, and it is designed to protect us from bodily harm. Our sympathetic nervous system is instantly engaged in creating a number of physiological changes, including increased metabolism, heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, dilation of pupils, constriction of our blood vessels, and our blood becomes more viscous and ready to clot, enabling us to fight or flee.

It is not uncommon for individuals eliciting the fight or flight response to describe such physiological changes as muscle tension, headache, upset stomach, racing heartbeat, deep sighing, or shallow breathing. The fight or flight response becomes harmful when elicited frequently, as high levels of stress hormones are secreted and have been found to contribute to a host of stress related ailments such as cardiovascular disease, inflammatory bowel diseases, and others.

Luckily, the Relaxation Response turns off the fight or flight response, returning the body and its biochemistry back to pre-stress levels. Dr. Benson describes the Relaxation Response as a physical state of deep relaxation, which engages the other part of our nervous system called the parasympathetic nervous system.

Harvard researchers have found that regular elicitation of the Relaxation Response can help any health problem that is caused or exacerbated by chronic stress such as fibromyalgia, gastrointestinal ailments, insomnia, hypertension, and others.

In a 2004 news interview, Dr. Benson explained that when the Relaxation Response is elicited "our brain waves actually change to an alpha state, our blood pressure and metabolism goes down, and any condition made worse by stress will diminish."

There are many methods to elicit the Relaxation Response including visualization, progressive muscle relaxation, acupuncture, massage, breathing techniques, prayer, meditation, tai chi, qi gong, and yoga. True relaxation is commonly cultivated by breaking the train of everyday thought by choosing a word, sound, phrase, prayer, or by focusing on our breath.

It is important to note that the Relaxation Response is a deep state of relaxation and is not equivalent to sitting with our feet up and watching television, listening to music, or reading a book. These forms of distraction are useful, yet they do not induce alpha brain wave activity the way deep relaxation does.

One of the most valuable tools we can learn in our life is to stimulate deep relaxation. The key is making an effort to spend some time every day to learn to calm our minds and create inner peace. Learning to relax is a great skill that may enable us to be better equipped to deal with life's unexpected stressors.

According to Dr. Benson, the best time to practice the Relaxation Response is first thing in the morning for ten to twenty minutes. Practicing once or twice daily is sufficient to counteract the stress response and bring about deep relaxation and inner peace. The following is the Relaxation Response technique reprinted from Dr. Herbert Benson's book The Relaxation Response.

Steps to Elicit the Relaxation Response

1. Sit quietly in a comfortable position.

2. Close your eyes.

3. Deeply relax all your muscles, beginning at your feet and progressing up to your face. Keep them relaxed.

4. Breathe through your nose. Become aware of your breathing. As you breathe out, say the word "one"* silently to yourself. For example, breathe in, and then out, and say "one"*, in and out, and repeat "one."* Breathe easily and naturally.

5. Continue for 10 to 20 minutes. You may open your eyes to check the time, but do not use an alarm. When you finish, sit quietly for several minutes, at first with your eyes closed and later with your eyes opened. Do not stand up for a few minutes.

6. Do not worry about whether you are successful in achieving a deep level of relaxation. Maintain a passive attitude and permit relaxation to occur at its own pace.

When distracting thoughts occur, try to ignore them by not dwelling upon them and return to repeating "one."*

7. With practice, the response should come with little effort. Practice the technique once or twice daily, but not within two hours after any meal, since the digestive processes seem to interfere with the elicitation of the Relaxation Response.

* Choose any soothing, mellifluous sound, preferably with no meaning or association, in order to avoid stimulation of unnecessary thoughts.

Breathe easy, and feel your body relaxing.

References:

Benson, Herbert. The Relaxation Response, New York, NY: Harper Collins Publishers. 2000.

Treating Headaches with Chinese Medicine

2010-06-16T02:46:00.001-04:00

By Joshua Herr, L.Ac.

Headaches affect many Americans. The frequency can vary from daily, weekly or monthly. The intensity varies from a mild nagging headache that interferes with normal tasks to debilitating headaches that can leave an individual bedridden. Medications can sometimes resolve a headache, but don't eliminate the root cause.

A practitioner of Oriental medicine is not only concerned with alleviating the headaches when they occur, but also understanding the root cause of the headaches. Correcting the cause of the headaches can eliminate their occurrence.

Chinese medicine understands the symptom of a headache to be one part of a myriad of symptoms that creates a pattern of disharmony that is present in the patient. Whether the headache is located in the back, top, side or front of the head all point to different clinical significance.

Identifying the headache location is a beginning step in making a differential diagnosis. After collecting further information about the headaches, like medical history, diet and lifestyle, the practitioner determines a diagnosis.

Common syndromes that lead to headaches are Liver Yang Rising, Liver and Kidney Yin Deficiency, Liver Blood Deficiency, Stomach Heat, Qi and Blood Stagnation as well as others. Diagnosing the clinical syndrome enables the practitioner to create an acupuncture and herbal medicine plan that best fits the individual.

At the 56th annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology, a study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ, 2004;328:744-747) on the use of acupuncture for headaches was highlighted. The study had 401 participants with predominately migraine-type headaches, who received 12 acupuncture treatments over 3 months. At 12 months, headaches were less in the acupuncture group, patients used less medication and made fewer visits to their primary care physicians.

The above study illustrates the usefulness of acupuncture as a therapy for the clinical management of headaches. Often patients experience an immediate elimination or reduction of headaches with acupuncture therapy. The use of food diaries is another useful tool that can help to identify dietary factors that can be contributing to the occurrence of headaches. Wheat, dairy and sugar are common ingredients in an American diet that contribute to an internal imbalance that gives rise to headaches.

Herbal therapy remedies can also correct the internal imbalance that contributes to the reoccurrence of headaches, as well as treating acute episodes of headache. For mild headaches, placing White Flower Oil on the temples can resolve the pain. White Flower Oil is a Chinese medicine liniment that is great to have in the medicine cabinet. As well as treating headaches, it can also be used topically for sinus congestion, arthritic pain, sprains, strains, and bug bites. Use caution when applying White Flower near the eyes, because it can irritate them if placed too close.

If you experience mild, infrequent headaches, explore how dietary factors may be contributing to their occurrence. Try White Flower oil and/or the acupressure described in our Fall 2009 Newsletter. If the problem is more severe, Chinese medicine offers many natural therapeutic resources for you to consider.

Cupping Therapy

2010-06-02T02:38:00.001-04:00

By Ann Wolman, L.Ac.

Many patients have experienced cupping as part of their treatment at the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic and have expressed curiosity regarding its origins and uses. Cupping has been widely used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. In ancient times, it was known as "horn cupping" and/or "bamboo jar therapy." Now cups are almost exclusively made of glass.

Early treatments focused on swellings and purulent swellings; however, over the years, cupping therapy has been expanded to treat a wide variety of complaints including arthritis, muscle tightness, sports injuries, sciatica, the common cold, post-stroke hemiplegia, abdominal and epigastric pain, menstrual cramps, intestinal spasm and even obesity. The use of cupping therapy has spread around the world and is now commonly seen in places as diverse as Cyprus, the Philippines and Turkey.

Cupping is done by creating a vacuum in a cup or jar, usually by means of heat, and applying the cup to the skin to draw up the underlying tissue. The amount of suction can be relatively great or mild depending upon the condition being treated. Usually a cotton ball is held in a pair of hemostats and dipped in alcohol. The cotton is ignited and inserted into the mouth of the cup while it is burning. The cotton ball is withdrawn quickly, and a vacuum is created as the cup is placed firmly against the skin at the desired location.

Cups can be moved (put an oil or liniment on the skin before applying) or left stationary over a particular area, for example, over the lungs to help decongest and ease breathing. Cupping can be combined with the application of liniments and with acupuncture. To remove cups, simply press against the skin at the base of the cup to break the "seal."

There are a few cautionary measures to keep in mind while using cups. Cupping should not be applied where skin is not smooth, or where there is a lot of hair, as it may be difficult to maintain suction under cups. Cupping should also not be applied over any abrasions or cuts. Smaller cups are often used around joints because they have rounded or angular surfaces. Too many cups placed closely together may pull surrounding tissue and cause pain. Cups should not be moved over bony prominences like the spine. Cups should not be left on for long periods of time (more than 15 minutes) to avoid blistering. Cupping should be avoided in areas where it would not be appropriate to have mild discoloration of the skin, like the face. Do not try to pry cups off from the top when removing them.

Cups can create bruising depending on the strength of the cupping process. This is normal and will resolve like any other bruise, disappearing without special treatment. Be careful not to apply a second group of cups until the skin has returned to its normal color.

Cupping has several advantages. It is safe, as long as it is properly administered, simple to perform, cost-effective and can be done at home as part of a self-care program. Cupping feels good, because it warms the area, releases heat and stagnation and relaxes muscles. I have one 5-year-old patient who regularly requests that "we do that cupping thing" on his back. Cups can be inexpensively purchased at the clinic, and your practitioner will happily go over an individualized treatment plan that can include cupping at home. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask.

Yeast Infections, Antibiotics and Chinese Medicine

2010-05-19T14:34:00.001-04:00

By Eric Aufdencamp, D.O.M., L.Ac.

Chinese medicine is very successful at treating yeast infections. The most effective way to treat yeast infections is to create an environment in which the yeast cannot reproduce. An overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus, called candida albicans, can result in conditions such as vaginal yeast infections, fatigue and digestive disorders.

Candida are naturally occurring cells found on the skin and on the mucous membranes. They only cause infections when they multiply due to the absence of beneficial bacteria. When found in the mouth, usually in infants, it is called thrush. It can occur on the skin in infants as "diaper rash" or in the vagina as vaginal yeast infections.

A primary cause is the use of antibiotics, which are used to kill harmful bacteria, but also end up eradicating beneficial bacteria. Other medications that contribute to yeast overgrowth include: hormone replacement therapy, oral contraceptives, chemotherapy, and cortico-steroids.

Anti-fungal medication is usually prescribed, and the use of antibiotics, as well as any medications that contribute to this condition, are discontinued during this time, if at all possible. Often, once anti-fungals are discontinued, the symptoms will recur. This illustrates the necessity to approach not just the symptom of the yeast, but also the underlying cause.

Chinese medicine always aims at treating the source of disease. Any overgrowth of heavy, thick fluids is "phlegm" or "dampness." When it combines with "heat," it is called "damp-heat" or "phlegm-heat." Dampness or phlegm is always considered a symptom, and the root cause of the dampness needs to be addressed for effective treatment.

In Chinese medicine, the Spleen transforms and transports the foods and fluids we eat. When it is weak, the normal fluids of the body become pathological, creating dampness or phlegm. If the discharge is thick and white, with little smell, then it has not yet combined with heat. If it is strong-smelling, yellowish and burning, then it has become "hot."

Acupuncture, herbs and dietary therapy all work toward strengthening the body so that heat is cleared, dampness is eliminated, and the food and fluids are transformed.

Dietary Therapy

Foods that contribute to dampness include:
alcohol, greasy and fried foods, sugar, juices, fruits (especially tropical), peanuts, dairy products, fermented foods, and wheat-based products such as pasta and breads.

Foods that help eliminate dampness include: vegetables, especially dark, leafy greens; beans like mung beans, adzuki, and lentils; grains, including millet, basmati or jasmine rice, and barley.

Herbal Therapy

Once a diagnosis is made, a formula can be prescribed to address the specific cause of your condition. Additionally, a vaginal herbal douche can be made and applied at home for more immediate relief. Yin Care wash, a pre-made herbal solution, can also be used as a vaginal douche at home.

Stress, whether chronic or acute, weakens the immune system, disrupting the natural balance of the body. This may be a contributing factor for recurrent yeast infections. Relaxation techniques and slowing down are important for strengthening the immune system.

Acupuncture, herbal medicine and dietary therapy are all important components for effectively treating and preventing yeast infections.

Gardening: What Is Cultivated By Us Is Also Cultivated Within Us

2010-05-12T09:26:00.002-04:00

By Rachel Nowakowski, L.Ac.

After a long winter indoors, many of us are ready to reconnect with nature and get the garden started. In addition to creating beauty around us, we can use gardening as an opportunity to cultivate a balanced life. Self-cultivation comes through awareness of our daily thoughts and actions and the simple act of tending a garden can be one way to practice. Think about how you feel when in a beautiful garden: relaxed, quiet, tranquil. Gardening can help us achieve that feeling in our daily lives.

For centuries, gardens have been sacred places of meditation and prayer. In the spiritual traditions of the east, Taoist gardeners use garden design as a means of self-development through their connection with nature. The Tao Te Ching, written in the 6th century BC, discusses the cycles of yin (dormancy) and yang (action). In the garden, we see the yin aspect of this cycle as plants hold their energy inward at the roots to rest for winter. As the days warm up, the yang energy is seen in everything blooming and coming back to life. When we observe nature’s phases, we are reminded that we should balance our hectic schedules with time for rest and renewal.

Gardening slows us down so we are able to see the Five Elements in action. As we work the soil (earth) with our tools (metal) we are able to grow our plants (wood) with the help of the rain (water) and sun (fire). Early gardeners and farmers recognized that the elements we see in nature also exist inside our bodies. This idea of the body as a microcosm of the universe is the basis of Chinese medicine theory.

Gardening puts us more in touch with nature and reminds us about:
Balance. Find time to rest between activities to balance the yin and yang energies.
Patience. There are things we cannot rush. We need to slow down and let it happen.
Gratitude. Be thankful for the beauty around us, in the garden or wherever we find it.

Exercise: Breathing in Beauty
(From The Inner Garden, by Diane Dreher)
The next time you are in the garden (or anywhere outside), practice this simple exercise.
1. Pause, take a deep breath, and look around you, slowly breathing out.
2. Look for something beautiful: a tree, a flower, the sky overhead.
3. Take a deep breath and breathe in its beauty. Then slowly breathe out.
4. Smile and open your heart as you take another deep breath and release.

Chinese Acupuncture Clinic To Participate in USDA Research Project Growing Chinese Herbs in the US

2010-05-06T02:10:00.000-04:00

By Mary Cissy Majebe, O.M.D.

High Falls Garden, one of the leading producers of Chinese herbal products grown in the United States has requested assistance from the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic for a United States Department of Agriculture Research project. M. Cissy Majebe will be on the Advisory Board for this 5-year project focusing on Specialty Crop Research.

There is a strong movement to grow Chinese herbal medicines in the United States. As one of the leading private clinics in the United States, the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic will share information and expertise guiding this project towards cultivation of herbal products in the U.S.

Yin Qiao, a basic formula that many of you may use for Wind Heat invasions, has many ingredients that you are already familiar with, as they are plants that grow in our area. Some of the ingredients of Yin Qiao are bo he, jin yin hua and lian qiao. These names may seem foreign and exotic, but when we translate them, we see that they are simply mint, honeysuckle and forsythia, which are familiar to most of us.

It is not that the Chinese have entirely different ecosystems from the U.S., but the Chinese do have a highly developed system of medicine that has developed herbal remedies over a period of thousands of years. It is our hope that by participating in this project, the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic can help to create more opportunities in the United States for the cultivation of medicinal plants.

Due to our new computer systems put in place by Joshua Herr, we are now able to track which herbs are being used the most in our clinic. We are excited about our clinic's participation, as well as Cissy's role on the Advisory Board, for this United States Department of Agriculture project. Hopefully, it can lead to more cultivation and farming of Chinese medicinals in the United States.

The Balance Method

2010-04-29T05:37:00.001-04:00

By Joshua Herr, L.Ac.

In Chinese medicine, there is a continual dialogue about how to achieve balance. One of the laws of nature is represented by the tai qi symbol, which is more popularly known as the yin yang symbol. The tai qi symbol represents a natural law of dynamic balance that is found in nature. For example, as the earth spins, there is a dynamic balance between night and day, and hot and cold, as the sun's position changes.

When you come to an extreme point of the day (the least or most amount of sunlight), the balance shifts, and the less dominant element becomes the predominating element. This is one basic concept that Chinese medical practitioners use to help patients. By assessing the state of the internal environment of the body and the balance of the meridians, a practitioner can choose the best herbs, foods, and acupuncture points to create harmony for the patient.

One common area of acupuncture study is called Microsystems. Microsystems is a term that is used to describe a unique map of acupuncture points that are distributed over a small area of the body. Microsystems use the concept of yin and yang to explain why an area of the body that has an anatomical resemblance of another part of the body can be used to treat that other area of the body.

You may have seen the ear acupuncture charts that we have around the office. In these diagrams, you can see that the points are distributed in a manner that represents the body parts of a person. The lobe of the ear is visually and structurally similar to the head. This is why acupuncture points found on the lobe of the ear effect illness of the head, including nose, ears, eyes, etc.

The Microsystem of the hand can also be seen as visually and structurally similar to the human body. In this system, the middle finger down to the wrist joint is the trunk, neck and head of the body. The 2nd and 4th fingers are the upper limbs, and the 1st and 5th are the lower limbs. The palm of the hand effects the internal organs of the body, while the back of the hand effects the back of the body and skeletal-muscular disorders of the shoulders, hips and back. There are additional Microsystems found on other areas of the body including the scalp and foot.

Another way of using acupuncture to send a message of balance to the body is by using the Primary Meridians to find which point will send the best message to that part of the body that is in distress. These points are usually very tender or sore when massaged. This technique of finding treating tender points on areas of the body that reflect illness located at another body site is commonly referred to as the Balance Method.

Primary Meridian is the term used to describe the 12 Primary Meridians that travel the length of the body, beginning or ending at the tips of the fingers or toes. These are the full body meridian charts that can be seen in the treatment rooms. When using the primary meridians to find a therapeutic balance, points along the entire arm and/or leg are used to heal other parts of the body. The practitioner first diagnoses which meridian has an imbalance (this is the meridian that travels through the area of the patient's illness). The second step is to determine which primary meridian will best balance the out-of-balance meridian by using the natural laws of yin and yang. The third task is to find points along the primary meridian chosen for treatment that will send the most effective signal to the distressed area of the body.

With this system, like the Microsystems, it can be observed that there is a visual and structural similarity between two distinct areas of the body. For example, the inside light skin area of the elbow can be used to treat the light skin area of the knee on the opposite side of the body.

At the end of this article I have listed the names and point locations for four acupuncture points of the hands that can be massaged to relieve a headache. The best point to choose is based on the location of the headache. When using these concepts to select the best point to treat the headache, the wrist of the person represents the neck and the hand represents the head and face. Have fun experimenting with the Balance Method and the next time you hurt your ankle, search for the very tender point that can be found in your wrist on the opposite side of the body.

Acupuncture Points To Relieve Headaches:

後洗"Back Stream" Small Intestine 3 - Trace the outside border of the pinky where the light and dark skin meet. This point is found in the depression that can be found on the hand just after you trace over the knuckle. Press deep to find the tender spot and massage to treat headaches located on the back of the head where the head rests when lying on a pillow.

少府 "Lesser Palace" Heart 8 - This point is found where the tip of the little finger rests when a fist is made. Press deep to find the tender spot and massage to treat headaches located on the side of the head and face.

合谷 "Joining Valley" Large Intestine 4 - This point is found on the back of the hand in the fleshy muscle found between the thumb and the first finger. Press to find the tender spot and massage to treat headaches located on the forehead or face.

When using these points, check to see which point is more tender. Is it the point on the left or right side of the body? When pain is located on one side of the body, generally the acupuncture point on the opposite side of the body in relation to the pain will be more tender and effective for treating the pain.

Chinese Medicine for Menopause

2010-04-15T05:31:00.000-04:00

By David Treviño, L.Ac.

Most women who live in industrialized societies experience menopause between the ages of 48 and 55. This natural transition from a fertile to a non-fertile stage in a woman's life is designated when menstruation permanently ceases. During this phase, many women experience uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, insomnia, headaches, lethargy, weight gain, water retention, vaginal dryness, and menstrual irregularities.

For the last several decades, western medicine has been prescribing hormone replacement therapy to help women deal with these uncomfortable menopausal symptoms. Research has found that these medications increase the risk of cardiovascular disease as well as cancer.

Fortunately, Chinese medicine has much to offer women who are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms associated with menopause. Acupuncture and herbal remedies and specific nutritional adjustments have been used for thousands of years in China to help women transition through these symptoms without the use of medications.

According to Chinese medicine, the physiological transition in a woman's life from a reproductive to a non-reproductive age occurs when kidney's yin and yang energies begin to decline. For example, when the kidney yin energies are deficient, the body is unable to cool or moisten. This can contribute to insomnia, palpitations, night sweating, constipation, tinnitus, and dryness. When kidney yang deficiency is also present, women often experience depression, hot flashes, night sweats early in the morning, cold hands and feet, fatigue, ankle swelling, and backache.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicines are great in helping the body balance the specific energy deficiencies and reduce menopausal symptoms safely and naturally. Most women experience a reduction of menopausal symptoms only after a few acupuncture treatments, but are best treated by combining acupuncture with Chinese herbal medicine. Most of the Chinese herbal formulas prescribed today have been used for thousands of years to strengthen Qi, Blood, Yang, or Yin and can be used on a regular basis without adverse effects.

Other lifestyle factors such as stress, lack of exercise, spicy foods, alcohol and caffeine can aggravate menopausal symptoms. If you are experiencing menopausal symptoms, try eating whole foods and increase foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids, exercise regularly, and practice activities that decrease stress and promote relaxation such as tai chi, yoga and meditation. If you continue to experience menopausal difficulties after adjusting your lifestyle, speak to one of our Licensed Acupuncturists. Chinese medicine can assist you in creating a harmonious shift and assist you in moving through this life transition.

Treating Pain: Chinese Herbs for Pain

2010-04-01T17:19:00.000-04:00

By Ann Wolman, L.Ac.

Patients commonly seek Chinese medical care because they are in pain. Acupuncture is becoming well known for its ability to resolve pain. A growing number of studies are demonstrating its use in the treatment of painful conditions such as low back pain and sciatica.

In Chinese medical terms it is said, "where there is pain, there is stagnation." This means that pain is indicative of some kind of blockage in the Meridian or Channel System. Acupuncture has the ability to "move qi and blood" and is therefore a treatment of choice for pain relief.

What is not as well known is that there is a long tradition of using Chinese herbs internally, meaning taken by mouth, for the treatment of pain disorders. For example, some of the most useful Chinese herbal formulas fall into the category of "Tieh Tah," or "Hit Medicine." These are formulas that come from the martial arts tradition and historically have been an important branch of Chinese medical study. Many herbal formulas have pain relieving functions.

Chinese herbs have advantages over pharmaceuticals for resolving pain. While Western medications may be more quick acting, they have numerous side effects, and many patients have difficulty tolerating them. All substances that are ingested must some how be detoxified and expelled by the body. Drugs are processed through the liver or the kidneys, and some may irritate the stomach. The use of pain relievers daily can be problematic. For example Acetaminophen, also known as Tylenol, is toxic to the liver, and in high doses, taken over a period of time or in combination with alcohol, can lead to liver damage. Other NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen (Advil) can irritate the stomach and cause ulcers. Advil has also been linked to renal damage. Narcotic pain relievers like Vicodin are extremely habit forming, may be very sedating and cause symptoms like nausea and constipation.

The beauty of Chinese medicine is that by treating the "pattern of disharmony," presenting symptoms are alleviated. This means that if pain is caused by stagnation, pain will be relieved by herbs that regulate or move qi and/or blood. We can treat the "root and the branch" simultaneously, relieving pain and resolving the underlying disharmony.

Chinese herbs are easily administered at home. Herbs can be taken in the form of teas that are cooked at home, pills, granules or tinctures. Herbs can also be targeted to treat pain in a specific area of the body. For example, for tight muscles in the upper back and shoulder blades Ge Gen (Kudzu) will guide an herbal formula to that area. It can be combined with herbs that specifically relax spasms like Bai Shao and Zhi Gan Cao (White Peony and Baked Licorice) and medicinals like Ji Xue Teng (Milletia) that open the channels and invigorate and nourish the blood. Pharmaceuticals are broad-acting and often do not target specific areas of the body.

As an adjunct to the use of internal herbs, liniments, plasters, or soaks can be used in the management of pain. Self-massage, epsom salts baths, stretching exercises, relaxation techniques and the application of caster oil packs can also be helpful. If you are dealing with pain, feel free to talk with your practitioner about your treatment plan, home care suggestions and herbal formulas that may be helpful to resolve your condition and support your healing.

Qigong Basics: The Breath & Calming the Mind

2010-03-18T05:14:00.000-04:00

By Eric Aufdencamp, D.O.M.

Qi is the vital life force that animates all living things. In Chinese medicine, the breath is one aspect that allows us to create Qi.

Qi from a Chinese Medicine perspective:

1. Provides warmth
2. Keeps blood in the vessels and organs in their proper place
3. Acts as the catalyst for the production of blood
4. Protects the body from external influences (i.e. bacterial and viral influences)
5. Provides movement for the fluids in the body

Qigong means to acquire benefit through being in harmony with one's life energy, or Qi. Exercise and relaxation techniques are ways you can regulate the flow of Qi in your body. If you tend to be tense and always on the go, then relaxation practices are very important. If you tend to have a sedentary lifestyle, movement practices such as tai chi, yoga, swimming, and other low-impact exercises, are important.

Regardless of your activity level, quieting the mind is an essential practice for better health.

To begin your practice, first sit and simply observe your breath. Is it shallow, rapid, slow, or constricted? Do you breathe only in your chest or do you breathe deeply into both your chest and abdomen?

Next, breathe through your nose with your mouth closed and the tip of your tongue gently resting on the border of your upper teeth and palate. This creates a circuit in the body that assists the movement of Qi. Breathe from your diaphragm, or from the area around the middle of your torso. As you fill up the area of the diaphragm, your chest may slowly rise as a natural consequence.

It is best to breathe from deep in the belly, because chest breathing may cause you to feel anxious or lightheaded. When inhaling, breathe deep in order to fill up the entire cavity in a 360-degree radius. Feel as if there were a balloon in the center that is being filled up in all directions. Remember that breathing should always be gentle and not forced.

Over time, your breathing will become slower and deeper without effort. Eventually, you can let go of the focus on your breath and just notice the sensations in your body and the sounds surrounding you.

It is ideal to not shut out sounds, but instead make them a part of your practice. It is a practice of accepting or surrendering to what is both in our bodies and our minds. This practice is excellent for reducing anxiety, promoting restful sleep and slowing down our thoughts.

Reading The Research Regarding Supplements

2010-03-04T18:26:00.000-05:00

By Mary Cissy Majebe, OMD

Each month I receive a newspaper entitled, Family Practice News. It refers to itself as “The Leading Independent Newspaper for the Family Physician.” I look through it as a way of keeping myself up to date with Western medicine, as well as with what the Western medical press may be reporting about alternative or complementary medicine. During the week of December 1, 2008, on page 32, the headline at the top of the page read:

“Prescribed Drugs, Supplements Tied To Liver Injury”

It went on to state: "Single prescription medication was the likely cause of the liver injury in 73% of cases. Multiple prescription medications or a combination of prescription medicine and dietary supplements were the cause in 18%. Single or multiple dietary supplements were the cause in the remaining 9%.”

Needless to say, I was distressed, so I sought out the research citation: “Causes, Clinical Features, and Outcomes From a Prospective Study of Drug-Induced Liver Injury in the United States.” Gastroenterology 2008: 136: 1924-1934. After reading this article, I had a much different picture.

The article’s headline listed both pharmaceuticals and supplements. However, of the total 300 patients in this study, 270 of these liver injuries were linked to either one or multiple pharmaceuticals. Only 30 of these liver injuries were linked to a supplement, and 2 of these 30 were linked to a pharmaceutical and a supplement. In other words, 90% of the liver injuries in this study are associated with pharmaceuticals and 10% to supplement usage. Of the 10% with liver injuries due to supplement usage, 65% of these were using supplements for weight loss and muscle building.

Furthermore, 73% (217 patients) of the liver injuries were due to pharmaceuticals, while 18% (55 patients) were linked to multiple pharmaceutical and supplement usage. Of these 55 patients, 2 of them used a supplement that was also listed as a probable causative agent, including Cell Tech, which is a muscle-building agent for body builders, and a Source of Life multivitamin supplement. For 53% of the 55 patients, they were using multiple pharmaceuticals. For 9% (28 patients), they were linked to supplements. Of these 28 patients, 19 were using supplements geared towards body building or weight loss.

All of the liver injuries that resulted in death (11% or 18 patients) were attributed to pharmaceuticals. No liver injuries in these 18 patients were attributed to supplements. Eight of the patients who were in this study received a transplant. One of these was attributed to an over-the-counter weight loss supplement, CVS Spectravite.

My concern with this type of reporting is that often, I, like many other health care professionals, only read the titles and highlights. Of the total 30 patients who were taking supplements, there were also no indications whether they had been prescribed to them by a Licensed Health Care Practitioner or a Trained and Educated Health Care Practitioner.

I find the article in Family Practice News to be reflective of the bias in the media and in allopathic research, which often highlights aspects of wholistic medicine, rather than focusing on the consequences of an over-medicated society. A point of interest is that all liver injuries due to Acetamenaphin were excluded from this study. I wonder how much smaller would the percentage have been for supplements, if all Liver injuries were included in this report.

Cooking With Chinese Herbs To Stay Healthy During The Winter Months

2010-02-18T16:09:00.000-05:00

By Ann Wolman, L.Ac.

In Chinese Medicine, the winter is associated with the water element and with the energetic organ system of the Kidneys. It is the time of maximum yin. These are the cold, quiet, contemplative months. Kidney energy holds our deepest reserves and provides the basis for our constitutional strength. This is a perfect time of year to incorporate nourishing and warming medicinal herbs into your cooking.

Foods and herbs have flavors, temperatures and energetic qualities. The Kidneys are nourished by the flavor of salt and other astringents. The Kidneys benefit from cooling or warming foods depending upon an individual’s constitution, but generally speaking, the Kidneys prefer warm natured herbs and foods. Some foods that nourish Kidney Qi are root vegetables like potatoes, yams, parsnips, and small beans like kidney, aduki and black beans and seeds.

One of the best ways to utilize Chinese dietary and herbal therapy is to cook with Chinese herbs. You can put raw herbs into soups and stews. This is often done with herbs like gou qi zi (lycuim fruit), dang shen (codonopsis), fu Ling (Poria), ren shen (Ginseng) and da zao (Chinese Dates).

It is also traditional to make congee, a kind of grain soup, with herbs. These congees are tasty, nutritious, and cost effective. They are particularly comforting on a cold winter morning. All of the herbal ingredients mentioned are available at the clinic and your practitioner can make more specific recommendations regarding those, which would be most beneficial for you.

Below are a couple of simple congee recipes.

Both of these congees can be varied based upon your taste, and as your practitioner recommends. You can use rice, millet, barley quinoa or amaranth as the base. Spices include cinnamon, bay leaf allspice, rosemary, ginger, nutmeg, cloves and fennel. Try walnuts, almonds or pumpkin seeds, and include different vegetables like sweet potato, pumpkin and squash. Experiment a little and enjoy.

If your practitioner suggests a more Kidney yin nourishing recipe, try the Mulberry Congee Recipe.

Basic Herbal Congee Recipe (warming)

½ cup white rice
8 cups vegetable or chicken stock (5 cups stock to 1 part grain if using a crock-pot)
10 grams astragalus root (huang qi)
6 grams codonopsis root (dang shen)
5 grams pueraria root (ge gen)
5 grams lotus seeds (lian zi)
8 shitake or black mushrooms, slivered
1 carrot, diced
1 strip seaweed

Place the astragalus in a bag or tie with string. Cover the codonopsis and pueraria with boiling water for 20 minutes, and then cut into ¼ inch lengths. Simmer all ingredients except carrot for 60 – 90 minutes, or cook overnight in a crock-pot on a low temperature setting. Add the carrot for the last 12 minutes. When done, remove astragalus and serve. This recipe can be varied using other grains like barley and warming herbs like fennel seed and dried ginger.

Mulberry Congee Recipe (cooling)

30 grams fresh mulberries
20 grams dry mulberries
20 grams dried lycium fruit (gou qi zi)
1 /2 cup walnuts
1 cup rice
4 – 7 cups water (7 cups water if using a crock-pot)

Cook mulberries and rice in water preferably overnight in a crock-pot on low setting. Add lycium fruit and walnuts. Serve warm each morning on an empty stomach.

It is even more important in the winter months to follow the basic principles of Chinese dietary therapy, as this will help to protect us from the bad effects of cold natured foods that tend to predominate the American diet. It is suggested that one avoid raw fruits and vegetables and cold or chilled foods and beverages (especially ice cream). Bon Appetit!

DAO YIN Exercises for Health

2010-02-04T06:45:00.000-05:00

By Junie Norfleet, L.Ac.

In the book Daoist Health Preservation Exercises, it is reported that Dr. Tissot, a famous French doctor from the 18th century, said, "As far as the role of movement is concerned, it can almost replace any kind of medicine. But no medicine in the world can replace the role of movement."

For many years the Chinese culture has recognized the importance of using movement to maintain and support the health of the body. The type of movement that the Chinese culture uses is not the aerobic and weight lifting types of movement that are so much a part of the culture in the United States.

Dao Yin movements are gentle and yet very effective for moving the energy (qi) of the body to help maintain health or to help cure illness. Following are some Dao Yin exercises that will help to maintain a supple, energized body. (As with all exercise, do only what your body feels comfortable doing.)

1. Lie on your back. Relax. Notice where your breath is in your body. Put your hands on that area. Relax. Gently guide your breath to the lower body. Breathe into the lower body several times. Place one hand on the upper body and one hand on the lower body. Inhale into the lower body and hold the breath. While holding the breath, force the breath into the upper body and then back down to the lower body. "Pump" the breath between these two places until you can no longer hold your breath. Release the breath through the mouth. Repeat several times. Relax and notice where the breath is now.

2. Stretch both hands over your head and spread your legs so that your body looks like an "X." Relax. Now you are going to "crawl on your back." Stretch the right hand higher over your head, then stretch the left leg out; then the left hand higher and the right leg out. By letting the hips shift as you reach, a "crawling" motion will be created when you do it at a fairly rapid pace. Once you have done it several times, relax and notice what feels different in your body. Where is the breath?

3. Lie on your back with your arms out to the sides as if the body is a cross. Pull the knees up and place the feet on the floor. Cross the right leg over the left leg so the knees cross. Inhale and let the weight of the right leg push the left leg to the left as far as it will go and release the breath. The head should naturally turn to the right. Let the left leg do the work of bringing both legs back up. Repeat this several times. As you repeat the exercise again, this time let the legs flop over to the left and release the breath rapidly. Repeat several times. Now lie on your back again. Notice what feels different in the body. Which leg feels longer, heavier? Where is the breath?

4. Repeat exercise 3, but cross the left leg over the right.

Doing these gentle exercises helps to lubricate the joints, stretch the sinews, move the qi, and relax the body. As you do these exercises more and more, you will begin to notice that you feel more centered and comfortable in your body, and that your body can stretch more each week. And remember, there is no medicine that can take the place of movement!

Setting a Good Example through Healthy Eating

2010-01-18T06:42:00.002-05:00

By Rachel Nowakowski, L.Ac.

At Thanksgiving dinner, I noticed how some kids are willing to try new foods while others reject anything unfamiliar. Like adults, children develop a natural preference for what they eat most often and enjoy. One way to get kids to make healthy choices is by setting a good example. Because the childhood impulse to imitate is strong, you can encourage your child to eat nutritious foods by being a role model.

Spleen qi is responsible for transforming and transporting food essences and absorbing nutrients. In Chinese medicine theory, children are born with underdeveloped Spleen energy. Considering this theory, we must carefully introduce new foods to children. Overindulging in sweet foods will only lead to further Spleen qi deficiency. Because Spleen qi is associated with the sweet flavor, when it is out of balance, we usually crave sweet foods. (Perhaps this is why so many kids seem to be born with a sweet tooth!)

When your kids ask to taste what you're eating, it helps to have your plate filled with nutritious selections. But healthy eating is not just about what we eat, but also how we eat. Eating while under physical or emotional stress can be harmful to the digestion, even if we are eating a perfect diet. Do you eat while in a hurry? While standing up? While under stress? Stress negatively impacts Liver qi. When this excess energy overacts onto the Spleen, digestion will suffer.

We can teach our children healthy eating habits and take special care to protect Spleen qi if we:

Sit down to eat together. Studies show that children and teens, who eat frequent meals with their families, eat more fruits and vegetables (even dark green ones) and drink fewer soft drinks.

Knowing that dinner is served at about the same time every night and that the family will be sitting down together is comforting, which also enhances appetite and digestion.

Relax. Sitting and taking the time to eat slowly and digest helps Spleen qi to break down food properly. When we eat on the run or rush from the table after eating, it sends qi to other parts of the body when we need the qi in our stomachs for digesting. Taking time to give thanks and enjoy the company of your family and friends during meals also sets a good example for children.

Limit mealtime conversation to pleasant topics. Eating together provides time for your child to share what's on his/her mind. Make mealtime an enjoyable experience by avoiding upsetting topics while at the table.

Chew well. How many times have we heard this? Yet many of us tend to speed through meals, barely chewing our food. Digestion begins with chewing. Chinese medicine says the digestive qi works to break down food into a "100 degree soup". If we chew well, food gets broken down before it reaches the stomach and leaves less work for the digestive qi.

Avoid excess fluids while eating. Don't put out the digestive fire by drinking too many fluids. It is best to drink a little at the beginning and at the end of the meal. Not between each bite. Limiting drinks for kids will also keep them from getting full before they've eaten their vegetables!

Other tips to encourage healthy eating:

Get kids involved. Let them help with the grocery shopping. It's a great time for you to teach them about the nutritional values of different foods, and how to read food labels. Let your child help with dinner by washing or peeling the vegetables. Start a vegetable garden at home so your kids can eat what they grow!

Keep only healthy snacks around. Kids are bombarded by messages that counteract your best efforts. Between peer pressure and junk food advertisements, getting your child to eat well might seem like a lost cause. They may choose poorly when they are out of the house, but you can decide what is available to them at home.

Your children are looking to you for direction on how to eat well. Show them how and help your own health at the same time. Research shows that it takes the average child 8-10 presentations of a new food before he/she willingly accepts it. So don't give up.

Have the kids help with this fun and yummy recipe:

Butternut Squash Fries. Peel and remove seeds from squash. Cut into long, 1/2-inch wide strips. Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with sea salt. Toss the fries to make sure they are evenly coated. Spread fries on a baking sheet. Bake 30-45 minutes, turning to ensure they are crispy on all sides. Enjoy!

Ensuring the Safety of Chinese Herbs

2010-01-07T09:22:00.000-05:00

By Mary Cissy Majebe, L.Ac.

Due to the arrival of toxic toys and foods from China into the United States, I would like to address the safety of Chinese herbal medicines for our patients. I will share information with you about how herb producers and manufacturers in the United States have been working to ensure the safety of Chinese herbal products.

First of all, for more than ten years, herbal manufacturers and Chinese medicine practitioners have taken steps towards ensuring a safe supply of Chinese herbal products. Aware of potential issues, Licensed Acupuncturists and herbal companies in the U.S. had already begun instituting procedures to ensure that herbal medicines were safe. This was done well before the recent crisis involving toys and foods from China, and the FDA’s new regulations for dietary ingredients, nutritional supplements and herbal medications.

Secondly, herbal companies in the U.S. carry product liability, which means they must have Certificates of Analysis for each herb product they offer for purchase. This verifies the identity of the herbs in order to prevent misidentification. This process also involves testing to assess any heavy metal toxicity or bacterial contamination.

Asia Natural is the primary company that supplies the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic with the herbs used for making teas. We have worked with this company for more than 20 years, and I have personally visited them in Berkley, California, where I was given a tour of their facilities. I left the factory reassured that the company was doing an excellent job supervising the growing of the herbs in China and following the testing guidelines for herbal products.

In June of 2007, the FDA published its final regulations. Called FDA cGMP, these standards require that each herb importer and manufacturer have documentation attesting to the identity and purity of the herbs it has imported into the U.S. from China. All raw herbs entering the U.S. must meet specifications, which include testing for active ingredients, heavy metals and bacterial contamination. These regulations are to be implemented June 25, 2009 or June 25, 2010.

Likewise, regulations have been published in China requiring cultivators to follow certain practices that minimize pesticide use and residues. In July 2001, China adopted the "Green Trade Standards of Importing and Exporting Medicinal Plants and Preparations." These standards provide for testing of organochloride pesticides, as well as heavy metals, bacteria and aflatoxin. Although pesticides of various types are used in growing some portion of Chinese herbs, detectable levels of pesticide contamination cannot be found.

In conclusion, thanks to a safety net of regulations from the U.S. and China, as well as the conscientious oversight and testing of American herbal companies, I feel comfortable trusting the herbal products available to our patients at the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic.

Supporting Childbirth With Acupuncture

2009-12-24T07:28:00.000-05:00

By Joshua Herr, L.Ac.

A documentary on the state of childbirth in the United States was released this year. “The Business of Being Born” was produced by Ricki Lake and directed by Abby Epstein. In 2006, CNN reported, “The US has the second worst newborn death rate in the developed world.” In all other countries, midwives attend 70-80% of births. In 2003, midwives attended approximately 8% of births in the United States.

The rate of cesarean section has increased as a result of the majority of births occurring in hospitals instead of birthing centers or homes. The pharmaceutical pitocin is often used in the hospital to speed the process of labor by increasing the strength and frequency of contractions. This induction of labor can be too soon or too strong for the mother or child and lead to cesarean as the next intervention. To help prevent this cascade of events, choose a care provider who induces labor only for medical reasons.

In 1998, the journal Gynecologic and Obstetrics Investigation published a study titled, “Influence of Acupuncture on Duration of Labor.” Beginning at week 36 of pregnancy, they gave 4 treatments once per week with acupuncture. The comparison group consisted of women who delivered closely before or after the women who were receiving acupuncture.

What they found was that the acupuncture group had a significantly shorter time of first stage of labor, which they defined as 3-cm dilation to full dilation. The average time of the first stage of labor for the acupuncture group was 196 minutes, which is a little over 3 hours. The average time of the first stage of labor in the group that did not receive acupuncture was 300 minutes, which is a little over 5 hours. There was no change in the duration of the second stage of labor, full dilation to delivery. This study suggests that acupuncture is useful in preparation for childbirth and can shorten Stage l of the laboring process.

We are grateful for many of the advancements in science and technology that have saved the lives of premature babies and mothers of high-risk pregnancies. However, the advancements in scientific knowledge do not replace the inherit knowing of the woman’s body.

Midwives recognize this inherit ability of the mother and know how to encourage it emotionally and spiritually during the process of labor. They are also trained on how to assess the need for medical intervention to ensure that the mother and newborn are not in danger during the birth process.

In Germany, many midwives are trained to perform acupuncture in the context of pregnancy and childbirth, because they recognize the benefits.

The practitioners at CAC are well equipped to work with pregnant patients and have many resources to offer including relieving pain during pregnancy, labor induction, assisting with turning a breech baby, and late stage acupuncture for preparation for child birth.

Sugar, Sugar Everywhere. Not Sure What To Eat?

2009-12-10T06:02:00.000-05:00

By Rachel Nowakowski, L.Ac.

Eliminating sugar from the diet isn’t easy. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that the per capita consumption of sugar is 44.2 lbs per year! Sweetened items on special occasions and in moderation can make life a little more fun, but there are alternatives to refined white sugar and high fructose corn syrup.

In Chinese Medicine, the sweet flavor is associated with the Spleen energy. The Spleen energy benefits from a small amount of the sweet flavor, as found in whole grains and vegetables. In large quantities, sweet foods weaken the Spleen, impeding the digestive function and causing dampness to accumulate in the body. Just because something is “naturally sweetened” does not necessarily mean it is any better for you. As a general rule: the less sweet, the better. When we read labels on natural food products, we see a variety of different sweeteners.

Here are a few:

Grain Malts like rice syrup, barley malt, and amasake are mildly sweet and do not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar. These sweeteners are considered to be among the healthiest sweeteners in the natural food industry.

Stevia is an all-natural substance derived from the leaves of a South American shrub. It has virtually no calories, doesn't raise blood sugar levels, and does not appear to have the same dampness-producing quality of other sweeteners when used in moderation. But because it is considered to be 300 times sweeter than sugar, an overconsumption can lead to Spleen weakness.

Molasses is a thick syrup by-product from the processing of the sugarcane or sugar beet. Black Strap Molasses contains significant amounts of vitamins and minerals and is the least sweet of the varieties. It is considered a Blood tonic because of its high iron content.

Honey is as sweet as sugar. Research has found that honey enhances growth of specific strains of Bifidobacteria, beneficial bacteria in the colon. Honey neutralizes toxins, activates the Lung and Spleen meridians, and nourishes Yin.

Sugar Alcohols (Mannitol, Sorbitol, Xylitol) are derived from the fibers of fruits and vegetables. Excess consumption can have a laxative effect and may produce gas, which implies that they do impact on the Spleen qi.

Many people turn to artificial sweeteners in an attempt to cut sugar from their diet. But what are they really made of? Aspartame (NutraSweet, Equal) breaks down in the body and converts to formaldehyde! Saccharin (Sweet n’ Low) is a petroleum-based compound, which was temporarily banned in 1977 when a study suggested saccharine caused bladder cancer. Sucralose (Splenda) is chlorinated and other chlorinated substances are known to contain pesticides. With these sweeteners, you may get more than just a little sweetness.

With all the options readily available to us, why not go for more natural, less sweet foods? The best source of sweetness is whole foods, chewed well to bring out their natural flavors.

Baked Apples

2 red apples, cored
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon coarsely chopped walnuts

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place apples in a baking dish.

2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine all other ingredients.

3. Bring to a boil, and drizzle equally over apples.

4. Cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes. Remove cover, and continue to bake for 10 minutes, or until apples are tender. Serve warm.

An In-Depth Look: Stomach Fire & Its Treatment

2009-11-26T18:15:00.000-05:00

By Karen Litton, L.Ac.

Gastro-intestinal issues are common complaints in both Western and Eastern Medicine. In Chinese Medicine, the Stomach is one of our most important yang organs. Together with the Spleen, it is the basis of our post-natal Qi (the body’s energy). Post-natal Qi is the Qi we gather after our birth from the air we breathe and the food we eat. The Stomach’s main function is to aid in digestion and the production of food Qi. A hyperactive Stomach, especially when combined with worry, overwork, or emotional problems, or the hot energy from foods or drink, can lead to Stomach fire. Stomach fire can cause the energy of the Stomach to flow upward (instead of downward, its usual course), causing us to feel the symptoms of heartburn, or acid reflux.

The Stomach needs large quantities of yin to help its digestion. If its capacity to hold the yin is damaged (perhaps by irregular eating, or indulging in mental work while eating, or disease), then a form of heat can develop in the Stomach. We call this empty heat, and it can lead to symptoms such as gastric pain, constipation, a dry mouth, mouth sores, toothaches, or a burning pain in the epigastria. Stomach fire can also be considered an excess type of heat, which burns yin fluids, thus obstructing the Stomach. This can result in symptoms of acid regurgitation, nausea or the sensation of wanting to vomit. In addition, fire in the Stomach can affect the mind, causing insomnia.

There are other emotional and physical issues that can impact the state of our Stomach. The Stomach represents our ability to accept nourishment, which can therefore manifest as difficulty accepting support or nourishment from others, or from a spiritual source outside ourselves. Another manifestation of the Stomach is too much worrying. Any of these Stomach imbalances can bring an inability to rest the mind. Lack of exercise can further exacerbate this problem by not supporting the movement of Qi, which in turn can lead to stagnation in the body.

Western conditions associated with Stomach fire include chronic gastritis, gingivitis, acid reflux, and mouth ulcers. In Western Medicine, acid reflux, commonly called heart-burn, is when the liquid contents of the stomach flow upward into the esophagus, the muscular canal connecting the throat to the stomach. This can cause a burning sensation that can damage the inner lining of the esophagus. The proper Western Medical term for acid reflux is Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). The Western Medical treatments for GERD are lifestyle changes, as well as medications, some over-the-counter.

Before we consider the treatment of Stomach fire from a Western approach, let us look at the role of hydrochloric acid in our digestive processes, as many of the Western drugs prescribed for stomach acid problems are designed to affect this acid. Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is important to the pH of our stomach and is necessary for optimal health. HCl is required for protein digestion in our stomach. It also is a protective agent in our digestive system for ingested pathogens, and prevents bacterial or fungal overgrowth in the small intestine. In addition, it encourages the flow of bile and pancreatic enzymes, and facilitates absorption of a variety of nutrients necessary to several metabolic processes. Therefore, good health and the presence of immunity depend on the existence of an adequate production of HCl and its presence in the blood stream / fluids of our body. Thus, with a reduction of HCl, we can experience a loss of immunity, an imbalance in our blood chemistry (the pH balance), and poor digestion/assimilation.

Another action that occurs in the body from a reduction of HCl is that the body makes up for it by substituting another acid to maintain the blood pH levels. Acid wastes assume the role of HCl in the blood chemistry. They begin to accumulate in our body and challenge the alkaline reserves – causing those reserves to be depleted – thus impacting this pH balance. This change in the pH balance is another factor in the reduced ability of our body to combat invading micro-organisms. Grave results can then appear in our metabolism. Western Medicine shares the same viewpoint of Chinese Medicine, in that the presence of the emotions of worry, grief, anxiety, and depression can lead to a deficiency in the production of gastric fluids, contributing to these degenerative processes.

In treating GERD/Acid Reflux/Stomach Fire with acupuncture and herbal formulas, or with drugs from Western Medicine, it is important to evaluate the function and capability of the Stomach.

Digestion is not just about what you eat, but how well the body is digesting, absorbing and eliminating what you give it. This is an important consideration for both Western Doctors when they prescribe drugs, and for Chinese Medical Doctors when they determine acupuncture treatments and herbal preparations.

Herbs and drugs that alter the pH of the Stomach will affect their absorption. Antacids are predominant used in Western Medicine to treat indigestion, reflecting the opinion that hyperacidity is the cause of the symptoms. The change in pH produced by these drugs, as they interfere with the HCl production, adversely affects the gut’s microbial flora. This has been shown to lead to the promotion of an overgrowth of Helicobacter pylori – the organism linked to ulcers and Stomach cancer. In Western Medicine, the etiologic factors causing a lack of or impaired HCl production are not well understood in Western Medicine. Studies indicate that an important cause of these gastro-intestinal problems could be a lack of HCl secretion.

The Western approach used to treat Stomach acidity includes Axid, Maalax, Mylanta, Zantac, Pepcid and Tagamet, Prilosec (which absorbs HCl acid), and Rolaids/Tums (which neutralize stomach acid). The Western treatment with Tums (which has calcium) blocks the HCl from touching the esophagus. Prilosec and Prevocet work by blocking the production of stomach acid. By reducing the hydrochloric acid of the stomach through drugs, you do not address the underlying cause of the disorder. The situation responsible for creating the fire is still operating, although the symptoms are now repressed. As a result, the Heat can be driven deeper, which may manifest later as a different health problem – such as inflammation, or muscle and joint pain.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, in the form of teas and pills, are useful for resolving Stomach fire by addressing the underlying cause of this condition. By working with the body’s systems overall, harmony is restored in the internal pathways and organs, and the situation leading to the Stomach fire is alleviated.

Food Is Medicine: Roasted Root Vegetable

2009-11-12T06:55:00.000-05:00

“Let your food be your medicine and your medicine be your food.” -- Hippocrates, 460-359 BC
By Karen Litton, L.Ac.

The relationship between food and health has long been explored by both Western and Eastern medicines. Throughout Chinese history, diet has been one of the four pillars of individual responsibility that leads to good health. These pillars are diet, exercise, mindfulness and lifestyle. Food is one of the ways we stay either in balance or out of balance with the world around us. Food can be a contributor to sickness, as well as a main support for a healthy, long life.

As food was studied and analyzed over the millennia, the medicinal properties of different foods were noted. In the Western diet, foods are broken down into their constituents of proteins, calories, carbohydrates, vitamins, etc. In Chinese medicine, one looks for not only vitamins and minerals, but also for the energetic properties of food and the body’s relationship to that energetic. Just as your practitioner prescribes certain herbal decoctions or pills based on your particular needs, different foods are suggested for different people at particular times to support a specific healing path.

The Chinese medicine system is based on observation of nature in all its forms – including the seasons, temperature, movement of the elements, and tastes. In applying these principles to food, we can affect the balance of our body, mind and spirit.

The Stomach and Spleen are the organ systems in Chinese medicine that involve the food we take in, breaking it down, and transporting it through the body. This is part of an important process that produces “post-natal” Qi, which is the energy our body creates after we are born. It is based on the food we ingest and the air we breathe. Different energies from food affect the production of post-natal Qi in various ways. Your practitioner considers a couple of factors when deciding which foods to recommend to you. They are based on the concept of yin and yang.

Many of you have heard of the terms “yin” and “yang” as concepts in Chinese medicine. Yin and yang convey the Chinese approach to balance and healing -- a balance that is always shifting. The Chinese symbol for yin is the shady side of a hill, while the symbol for yang is the sunny side. Therefore Yin qualities include coolness, dampness, and darkness relative to the yang qualities of warmth, dryness and light.

In general, yin foods are more cooling and moistening to the body. Yang foods are more warming and drying. Something that grows in the air and sun is often yang. Those foods that grow in the earth or darkness have a more yin nature. Soft, wet, and cool foods are also yin, like melons. Foods needing heating up (like meat) are usually yang. The summer is a more yang time, while the winter is yin. Thus, foods like salads and other raw foods, which have a more yin effect on the body, are better
eaten in the summer when the weather is hotter and our body may need some cooling. However, these foods are not the best to eat in the cooler months and during the winter when our body needs more warming type foods.

Another factor to consider from a Chinese perspective is to define the nature/energy of foods as hot, cold, warm, cool, and neutral. The energy of foods is its capacity to generate these temperatures in the human body. This energy represents the “effect” of a particular food on our body. For example, green tea, even when drunk hot, has a “cooling” nature on our body.

In light of these principles, it is important to note that a person’s choice of foods can also affect one’s mood. Too much hot/yang food can lead to over-excitement, or even agitation. Too much yin/cold foods can lead to a feeling of lethargy and heaviness in the body. The Chinese idea is to eat both types of food to keep the body in balance. Thus, if you are dealing with a certain situation in life that has you all fired up, or you are a type of person who gets emotionally worked up a lot, then you might find a diet with a lot of yang or hot foods to be too energizing for you. It might be suggested that you limit certain yang foods in your diet.

Though this is just an overview of some of the principles involved in food therapy from a Chinese perspective, paying attention to the foods one eats is an ancient healing modality spanning many cultures. These principles make sense and when put into action. Health is a state of balance in which food choice is a key.

The fall is a transition time, as we are moving from the heat of summer to a cooler time of the year. Some of the vegetables we harvest at this time are squashes, turnips, carrots, beets and sweet potatoes. Let us take a moment to apply the principles we have mentioned to these root vegetables. These foods grow in the soil and are more yin in nature. Energetically, they are warming foods for our digestion. Many, like the squashes, have a sweet taste. They are all very nourishing to our Spleen and Stomach, and help us to build stamina for the coming cooler season.

On the previous page, there is a recipe for roasting root vegetables -- one that is good for your digestion, nourishment and enjoyment!

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How To Roast Root Vegetables

· Cut up any mixture of the following root vegetables: squashes, turnips, carrots, beets and sweet potatoes.

· You can include onions and peppers, if you like.

· Mix all with a light coating of olive oil.

· Add a spice like basil or rosemary, and mix it all thoroughly.

· Spread in a baking dish or cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 30 – 90 minutes, depending on how thick your slices are.

Have fun eating and take care of yourself throughout the seasons!

H1N1 FLU: Panic And More Panic

2009-10-22T06:30:00.000-04:00

By Mary Cissy Majebe, O.M.D.

Each of us has heard repeatedly about the new “swine flu” that is approaching. I want to share with you treatment and prevention strategies from a Chinese medicine perspective.

Chinese medicine has a long history of treating epidemics. There are MANY treatment methods. One is based on a system called the Wen Bing School. This school of thought teaches that there are four levels of heat that an illness such as a flu can traverse. These four levels are wei, qi, ying and blood.

When an illness is still at the wei level, major symptoms will be muscle aches, headaches, fever and chills. Sensory orifice symptoms will often be the predominant factor. When the illness progresses to the qi level, the fever will rise, and there will be more signs of heat such as sore throat, mouth sores, dry lips, red eyes and cough. When the illness reaches the ying level, it will also have symptoms of insomnia, night sweats, and agitation. In the last stage, there will be bleeding of some type, whether mild as in bleeding gums, or more severe. At all of these levels, Chinese medicine has the tools to address the illness and restore health.

In case you, or one of your loved ones, develop a flu this winter, there are specific treatments for each of these levels that can assist you in regaining your health. We want you to know that the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic is ready to assist you. At the same time, we will hold the thought that this flu season will be part of the natural ebb and flow and will not manifest with the severity predicted.

I have been asked by many of you if I get a flu shot. In researching the H1N1 flu, at this time it appears that this flu is not as serious an illness as the other more common flu varieties. I question the wisdom of an immunization that bypasses our bodies’ normal defensive system and is introduced at the blood level. Since this appears to be a mild flu, even though it is highly contagious, would it not be better to allow the body to develop some immunity to this flu by getting sick and then allowing the body to recover naturally? I strongly question the wisdom of trying to eradicate ALL illness with either a pill or an immunization.

I wonder what the consequences long-term may be in not allowing children to experience illness and develop natural immunity.

I chose not to get a flu shot, BUT, for those of you who do choose to have a flu shot, I recommend the following:

Therapy After the Flu Vaccine

Food Therapy: Sesame Milk
Grind ½ cup of sesame seeds (black is best), then cook for 15 minutes in 1 cup water and drink the liquid. Do this two times the day of the vaccination and two times the next day. For children, reduce the dosage to one half-cup two times a day for the two days.

Sesame seeds are high in Omega 3 & 6 oils, which clear heat from the body at the level of essence. We always want to protect the essence level.

Home Health Care: Gwa Sa
After returning home from receiving your flu shot, Gwa Sa the Urinary Bladder meridian to release any latent heat created by the vaccine.

Use a Gwa Sa spoon (Chinese ceramic soup spoon) to scrape downwards on either side of the spine, beginning at the base of the occiput to the bottom of the shoulder blade area.

Acupuncture Care
Telephone the CAC and have a mini-treatment. With acupuncture and gwa sa, this mini-treatment will clear heat that can become latent and create other problems. (The reduced fee for this treatment is $50 to enable us to attend to your health-care needs during this time.)

Protection From the Flu

Essential Oils
Our clinic is making every effort to be pro-active in protecting the health of all of our patients. We have developed an Essential Oil formula that can be applied to specific acupuncture points daily for assisting your body’s Wei Qi (your defensive qi, i.e. immune system) to remain strong.

Essential oils have both anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. To use this formula, apply topically one time a day to Ren 17 (the point directly on your breast bone at the level of the nipples) and Lung 7 to Lung 9 (located on your wrist, thumb-side up). I would like to caution you regarding the use of essential oils that are not medical grade. To ensure good results clinically, it is important to use a medical grade essential oil.

Because these oils have anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, we will be diffusing them in the clinic this winter to better protect your health and the health of our staff. The essential oils that we utilize are organic and are extracted without the use of solvents. We will be using a combination of Pine, Eucalyptus and Tea Tree in our office.

Jade Wind Screen
If you want a tonic for this winter’s flu and cold season, we suggest a formula called Jade Screen. This is ONLY to be taken when you are healthy. Do not take this formula if you have any upper respiratory signs or a fever.

Who Is Most At Risk for the Flu & What You Can Do

I have read and studied the information that is coming from the CDC regarding the H1N1 flu. By looking at this information, it is possible to predict which patients will have the most difficulty with this flu and to prepare for the symptoms that might accompany the flu.

Many of you have heard your practitioner speak of Internal and External pathogenic factors. The external pathogenic factors include cold, damp, heat, wind, dryness and fire. From looking at the groups of people that are having difficulty with this flu, we can see some patterns.

Many of the children who have done poorly with this flu have neurological issues such as seizure disorders or cerebral palsy. From a Chinese medicine perspective, each of these conditions has an Internal pathogenic factor of Wind. Wind from our perspective can be due to an excess of internal heat or an insufficiency of fluids. These two factors can exacerbate the onset and course of this flu.

For this reason, it is necessary to nourish the body with fluids. HENCE the statement you always hear to drink plenty of fluids should say, “DRINK, DRINK, and DRINK plenty of fluids!” The second factor, heat, tells us that it is important to REST, as this can also help to keep a fever from becoming too high. This is difficult, because a fever is one of the body’s defenses against both bacteria and viral conditions. It is only when the fever is high that it consumes the bodily fluids that can lead to a more serious condition.

We suggest that you seek care at the beginning of an illness this winter and not delay. On the other hand, we hope to see that you are able to avoid this flu, by remembering these simple suggestions.

The most simple solutions are often the best:

Get a Good Nights Sleep
Eat a Healthy Diet
Engage in Light Exercise
Keep Stress Levels Low

We cannot eliminate being exposed to viral or bacterial invasions, but we can try to keep our immune systems strong in order to ward off illness. I wish you all good health this winter season!

Kitchen Recipes for the Fall: Food & Home Therapy for the Colds & Flu of Fall

2009-10-08T07:33:00.000-04:00

By Karen Litton, L.Ac.

As the weather begins to get cooler, and the wind changes its nature and starts to feel more "invasive" to the body, it is important to protect ourselves through proper dress and foods. Making sure we are dressed for the weather is important. Wearing a scarf around the neck or protecting the head keeps that "wind" from invading our bodies.

In Chinese medicine, we call wind the Bearer of "100 diseases." It can help the cold to penetrate our bodies; and if our defenses are weak, we can begin to feel those early signs of an impending cold or flu.

An important part of our body's defenses comes from the food we eat. Eating nourishing squashes, hot cereals, and warming grains will help our defenses stay strong.

One way to cook grains that are easily digested is in the form of a "congee." It is a grain-based porridge that is very strengthening for the digestive system. It is cooked in a crock-pot or simmered over very low heat on the stove.

Any number of grains can be used: rice, millet, quinoa, barley, spelt, etc. You can also add sweet potatoes or squashes, various nuts, spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and the flavorings of molasses, honey, rice milk or maple syrup.

You can get creative!

Suggested Congee Grain Combinations:

1 part grain (1/4 cup)
5 parts water (1 and ¼ cup)
Combine in crock-pot & cook on low overnight
(8 hours)
The proportions of grain and water can be adjusted so that you get the consistency you want.

Another way to be prepared for when that "wind" carries some cold or flu past your defenses, is to have on hand at home a remedy for when you first start to feel those signs that you may be "coming down" with something: runny nose, achiness, slight headache, maybe slight chills or a very mild fever.

Directions for the Early Stages of a Cold:

One of the earliest ways to treat these symptoms at home is to brew some tea using spring onions, or scallions, and prepared (fermented) soybeans, which can be bought at your local health food store.

Use 2-5 stalks of the onion with 12 - 30 grams (about a ¼ cup) of the soybeans. Brew for no longer than 10 minutes and drink up to 6 cups a day.

To increase the effect of this "tea" helping to drive the cold back out of the body, lie down and cover yourself with a blanket to induce sweating. Be sure to get plenty of rest and replenish your fluids through drinking enough plain water and herbal teas.

If you are not feeling better, come see us! In the meantime, keep yourself healthy through your food choices and having on hand at home a response to those initial cold symptoms.

Handling Hand and Wrist Pain

2009-09-24T20:52:00.001-04:00

By Karen Litton, L.Ac.

Our hands are such an integral part of our bodies that they are easy to take for granted – that is, until they start hurting or our fine motor control is impaired. It is then that we begin to realize how much we rely on our hands to interact with the world.

It is hard to even imagine all the tasks our hands perform for us. We use them in personal care, to engage in athletic endeavors, to work, and this time of year, to garden. With more than 50 muscles to move the 27 bones in the hand and numerous sensory nerves, we use them to touch others and our environment.

In Chinese medicine, the hands are powerful areas of energy and energy exchange. Six of the 12 Primary Meridians either begin or end at the fingertips and connect us to other areas and systems in our body. “Dis-ease” elsewhere in our body can show up in our hands. Thus, our hands can be used to treat other areas of our body.

Hand or wrist pain can occur from a variety of sources and be felt in many ways. There can be pain after local trauma or injury, as a result from straining while lifting, or in exercise, or even while lying in bed with the hands curled awkwardly. There can be pain following over-use or repetitive movements. For many of us, long hours working on the computer can also result in painful wrists or fingers. For others, it can arise after prolonged exposure to cold, heat or dampness.

The quality of the pain can vary. It can be dull and aching or sharp and uncomfortable. It can radiate to or from other areas, such as the forearm or shoulder. There can be a feeling of stiffness and tightness in the ligaments/tendons, or even seem as if there are nodules on the fingers.

Western medicine has various names for these conditions: arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, neuropathy, trigger finger, joint inflammation or degeneration, etc. Drugs are often prescribed for the pain. The difficulty is that they do not address the root cause of the difficulty and therefore do not last. In other words, the benefits of pain medication are only felt as long as the drug is in the system.

From a Chinese medical perspective, most hand pain falls under a general heading of Painful Obstruction Syndrome of the hand channels, which results from the blockage of qi or blood in these channels. As with any syndrome, Chinese medicine seeks to diagnose the probable root cause of the problem and thereby determine the best way to address the symptoms.

Most pain patterns stem from a variety of factors.

An extremely common cause of finger, hand and wrist problems is the contraction of the muscles in the hands or forearms due to overwork or trauma. These sensitive areas in the muscles can be considered “trigger points.” This is simply another way of describing an area in which the qi and blood have stagnated and caused a muscle “knot” or area of contraction and soreness.

An important part of self-care is to figure out what is stressing these sore spots and then to modify or remove those stressors. Repetitive strain injuries are common whatever the activity – even if we are having fun! Whenever we do a motion over and over, without a break, the tension gradually increases in the joints and muscles, and they contract. Unless we do something during or after the activity, such as stretching, these areas remain contracted.

Stretches for Your Hands & Arms:

There are a few simple stretches that you can do for your hands to help ensure that the qi and blood are flowing and the area does not get blocked. This can make a big difference to your hands, especially if you use them a lot.

Take a moment and stretch your arms out in front of you. While the arms are outstretched, pull the hand back toward your body with the other hand. Hold for five seconds. Then do the same motion bending the fingers and hand toward the ground.

Then make circles with first your hands, and then your arms, to get the blood flowing in those areas. Take each finger and gently bend it to the side and backwards as you stretch the finger tendons.

Simply flexing and extending the fingers with an open then closed fist can be helpful to getting blood to flow into the area.

Since pain in the hands can be referred pain from the shoulders or neck, it is good to stretch these areas, too. That can be done by rolling the shoulders up toward the ears and letting them drop down, as well as by making windmills with your arms.

Herbal Liniments for Pain Relief:

There are some wonderful liniments at the Clinic, which you can rub on your hands. Zheng Gu Shui will feel warming to use. Two with more cooling qualities are White Flower Oil and Po Sum On. Be careful not to get these oils into your eyes. We also have a tendon soak made with raw herbs, which have been boiled to make a soak for your hands. For arthritis, you can also soak your hand in hot apple cider every night.

Take care of your valuable hands and fingers, and come see us if you have difficulties.

Chinese Medicine for Autism: Exploring an Eastern Approach for Helping Children

2009-09-19T18:15:00.006-04:00

By Dr. M. Cissy Majebe, O.M.D.

The treatment of Autism with Chinese Medicine (CM) first began to interest me in 1993 when a parent brought a three-year-old, non-verbal child into the clinic. I acquired a special interest in the treatment of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders from working with this child.

Currently, Autism is recognized as a developmental disability with primary symptomology affecting social interaction and communication skills. Autism is a behaviorally-defined syndrome.

Within a Western framework, there are no clear causes of Autism, although it is believed to be a biological neurological disorder affecting brain function. There are strong indicators for a genetic basis, and there is also a growing concern that environmental toxins and pollutions may be contributing factors, as well as viral infections.

Currently, there are no medical tests for the diagnosis of Autism. In regard to treatment, the only real option Western Medicine offers is intervention with early educational programs.

For those of you who may have little experience with Chinese Medicine, let me begin by saving that Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive health care system that has its own system of diagnostics. It includes not only acupuncture, but also herbal medicine, nutritional therapies, Tui Na (massage techniques), aromatherapy, spinal manipulations and lifestyle counseling. CM, as a system, allows the practitioner to utilize different combinations of techniques, based on the constitution and specific needs of the individual.

The World Health Organization recognizes Chinese Medicine's ability to treat many common disorders, including disorders of the bones, muscles and joints, respiratory, gastrointestinal, circulatory and urogenital disorders, addictions, eye, ear, nose and throat disorders and emotional and psychological disorders. It is this history of the effectiveness of CM with psychological and neurological disorders that provides a basis for the effective treatment of Autism.

In CM, Zang-Fu is a term for the organs of the human body. Many of the organ names are familiar terms. These terms refer not only to a physical organ but to the energetic functions of the organ as well. Each organ relates to an emotional response, sensory organ, and soft tissue. Autistic children often experience difficulties with sensory integration. In the treatment of Autism, the three primary organ systems of concern are the Heart, Spleen, and Kidneys; these organ systems are associated with speech, hearing, and taste, respectively.

"On an emotional level, the state of the Heart determines a person's capacity to form meaningful relationships." This quote from The Foundations of Chinese Medicine, by Giovanni Maciocia, is paramount to the understanding of Autism within the framework of CM.

According to Chinese Medical theory, autistic individuals suffer from a Heart imbalance that inhibits connecting on an emotional level with other people, including their immediate families. A person with Heart imbalances might manifest a lack of joy in life, anxiety or inappropriate laughter and talking. A person with a Heart Qi disorder could either manifest with excessive talking or aphasia (problems with speaking or an inability to speak).

Children diagnosed with Autism may present with digestive anomalies that may be deemed irrelevant by Western Medicine Physicians. In CM these children exhibit signs and symptoms associated with Spleen Qi Deficiency. On an emotional level, persons with extreme Spleen Qi imbalances often manifest obsessive-compulsive behaviors.

Autism is usually diagnosed before the age of three. CM sees this disorder as having a Pre-natal origin, compounded by a Post-natal weakness. The Pre-natal component would translate as genetic influence, whereas the Post-natal aspect would relate to all that has occurred since birth. Pre-natal factors in Autism indicate Kidney involvement. Kidney Qi is important for brain development, along with Heart and Spleen, according to Chinese Medical theory.

Basic methods of diagnosis include observation of the patient, such as listening, smelling, examination by questioning and physical examination by palpation. Observation includes CM specific skills such as tongue, pulse and facial diagnosis. It also includes close attention to how the patient relates to and moves in the world.

In CM, imbalances arise from three different sources: external factors, internal factors and miscellaneous factors.

Wind, Heat, Fire, Cold, Dryness and Dampness are external pathogenic factors in CM. These factors create imbalances that lead to disease.

In CM, Internal Pathological Factors are the Seven Emotions. Each of these emotions is associated with an organ system. Those that relate to Autism include: fear or shock that weakens the Kidney, over-pensiveness that weakens the Spleen and shock and anxiety that weakens the Heart. The over-pensiveness that is discussed in classical Chinese writings is related to the obsessive behaviors or obsessive thought patterns that often manifest in Autism.

Miscellaneous factors include genetic influences, poor nutrition, lack of exercise and excessive mental stimulation, such as an inordinate amount of television viewing. Air pollutants, food additives and preservatives are other miscellaneous factors. Antibiotics and Immunizations are also considered miscellaneous factors.

Phlegm is the primary pathological factor related to the development of Autism in CM. In regard to Autism, Phlegm is generally an External Pathogenic Factor, but it can also manifest from Internal and miscellaneous causes. Phlegm is said to be either substantial or insubstantial, meaning that it can either be the mucous we expectorate and drool or a kind of "fog" that blocks the sensory organs. This "fog" would present itself as poor concentration or hearing, a lack of response to external stimuli, etc. In CM, the diagnosis of Autism generally can be classified as either Phlegm Misting the Heart or Phlegm Fire Harassing the Heart.

The Autistic child will have symptoms that are linked to Heart, Spleen and Kidney imbalances. The Heart imbalance relates to the difficulties the child has in establishing meaningful emotional relationships with others, and communication and speech difficulties. The Spleen deficiency is linked to digestive anomalies that contribute to the development of Phlegm. Kidney involvement is related to the young age at which this condition develops.

The development of Autism is a multi-faceted pathway. There is no single direct cause and effect for Autism Spectrum Disorders in Chinese medicine, although there are a set of co-factors that must be present. Recall that in CM imbalances are related to External, Internal and Miscellaneous factors. The External and Internal factors can be a source of difficulty, but a major focus in Autism is on the Miscellaneous factors. Genetic factors can set the stage, but there must be other co-factors in order for Autism to develop. Nutritional and lifestyle factors must be addressed in the treatment plan. The manifestations of Phlegm and the root cause of Phlegm must be addressed. It is due to the very different pathways in the development of Autism that makes it difficult to assign causality.

As I stated previously, Chinese Medicine treats the constitution and specific needs of the individual, not the disease. With a behaviorally-defined syndrome, such as Autism, such treatment is especially appropriate, because the practitioner is able to accurately diagnosis and treat a patient who may be manifesting any number of diverse and seemingly unrelated symptoms. The foundation for effective treatment in CM would use a multi-tiered approach that includes synergistic CM modalities, such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, Tui Na (massage), nutrition, aromatherapy, and manipulative therapies. This multi-tiered approach should include the intervention with early education treatment that Western medicine recommends.

Originally published as an article in various publications in 2002.

Native Plant Turns Fate of Breech Pregnancy

2009-09-14T09:38:00.000-04:00

By Joshua Herr, L.Ac.

The cesarean rate for diagnosed breech presentations rose from 12% in 1970 to more than 95% today. A fetus that is in a breech position has its head at the top of the uterus instead of down against the cervix. This can create complications during delivery. For women who are planning on having a vaginal birth, this is a shocking statistic.

The trend began in 1959 when Dr. Ralph Wright called for mandatory cesareans for women with a baby in the breech position. The move towards mandatory cesareans for breech babies is affecting the clinical training of obstetricians and midwives, as fewer are having the chance to witness a vaginal breech birth. Coupled with the threat from malpractice insurance companies to not provide coverage for hospitals that permit planned vaginal breech births, the clinical skill is in jeopardy.

Acupuncturists are turning fate around for women with a breech presentation. A common plant found in the mountains and abandoned plots around North Carolina is the method of choice. The plant is called Artemisia vulgaris and has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years to stimulate acupuncture points with heat. The plant is dried and repeatedly ground and sifted until it forms into a soft, golden fluff called moxa.

Moxa is burned at a safe distance from the skin to gently stimulate selected acupuncture points. For women with a breech diagnosis, the point chosen is called Zhi Yin (Reaching Yin) and is found on the outside edge of the little toe.

In 1998, JAMA published a study led by Dr. Cardini, which demonstrated that moxibustion applied to Zhi Yin for 1-2 weeks beginning at the 33rd week of pregnancy resulted in the fetus turning head-first after treatment and at delivery. Cardini's group demonstrated over a 75% chance of success using the moxa technique.

Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for women during pregnancy. Acupuncture can resolve muscular pain that occurs during pregnancy and is a treatment of choice for a mother concerned about taking pharmaceuticals.

Women with severe morning sickness are also finding that the holistic approach of acupuncture is the best approach. Incorporating breathing and relaxation exercises along with acupuncture treatment, an expectant mother with morning sickness can keep food down and nourish her body, as well as her baby.

Induction of labor can also be performed with acupuncture. When using acupuncture to induce labor, contractions increase gradually, which gives the mother's body time to safely transition into active labor.

The current age of medicine has brought a tremendous wealth of skills and knowledge, both old and new. As science moves forward with new medical breakthroughs, it is also important to keep old methods of effective procedures alive. A medical community that thoughtfully integrates innovation with antiquity will have the resources available to meet the future's healthcare needs.

Come Join Us for Our 25th Anniversary Celebration & FREE Open House!

2009-09-10T06:25:00.003-04:00

September 19, Saturday
1 pm - 5:30 pm at the

Chinese Acupuncture Clinic
369 Montford Ave, Asheville

ENJOY Healthy FOOD, Live MUSIC, FUN for kids & GREAT Company!

PRIZES Awarded Every 30 Minutes,
Including FREE acupuncture treatments & FREE massages!

***

SCHEDULE:

1-3 pm
Experience Chinese Medicine
Manual Therapies
Sign up for one demo of
cupping,
gua sha (spoon massage),
tui na massage, or
auricular (ear) acupuncture

2-2:30 pm
Outdoors Qi Gong with
Junie Norfleet, L.Ac.
A self-cultivation Qi exercise

3-5 pm
LIVE MUSIC by Free Planet Radio
Featuring Musicians…
Eliot Wadopian,
River Guerguerian,
&
Chris Rosser

3:30-4:30 pm
Balloon Animals for Kids
Voted 3rd for Mountain Xpress's
"Best Children's Entertainer" in WNC for the Year

5 pm
Authentic Chinese Dragon Dance

***

For more information, please call (828) 258-9016.

In Depth: Moxibustion

2009-09-08T09:39:00.001-04:00

By Rachel Nowakowski, L.Ac.

As you walk into the Clinic, you often notice the familiar smoky odor of moxa. New patients usually ask, "What's that strange smell?" Some people love it, others do not.

What is moxibustion and what is it used for?

Moxibustion is a method of heating specific acupuncture points on the body by burning an herb material close to the skin. This technique can be used alone or in combination with acupuncture. In fact, the Chinese character for acupuncture literally means "acupuncture-moxibustion." The basic purpose of moxibustion is to warm the meridians to promote circulation of qi and blood.

What is moxa made of?

The herb material used is mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris, Ai Ye) an invasive weed, which grows in many climates, including Western North Carolina. Mugwort has a long history of use in folk medicine. It is believed that the Romans planted mugwort by roadsides to make it available to travelers to put in their shoes to relieve aching feet and protect them from exhaustion. Added to bath water, it is a soothing treatment for relief of muscle and joint aches - perhaps due to its ability to enhance the movement of qi and blood.

Mugwort gets its botanical name from the Greek moon goddess Artemis, a patron of women, and is a wonderful herb for gynecological conditions. In Chinese Herbal medicine, it is categorized as an emmenagogue, an agent that stops bleeding. Internally, it is used for heavy menstrual bleeding and uterine bleeding. It also increases blood circulation to the pelvic area to treat menstrual pain. Taken internally, it can warm the uterus and is used for threatened miscarriage. Moxibustion has successfully been used to turn breech babies into a normal head-down position prior to childbirth by increasing fetal movements.

Why mugwort and not some other herb?

Some sources say that mugwort is used because of its acrid, spicy odor. This property makes it able to travel through all of the meridians, regulate qi and blood, and expel cold. In addition, its bitter nature helps to resolve dampness. One of mugwort's active components, borneol, is commonly used in topical therapies for its analgesic effects.

Other explanations for the use of mugwort, as opposed to some other herb material, is that it grows easily in many places, is inexpensive, holds its shape when rolled or pressed, and burns slowly.

An additional benefit of moxa is that the smoke may help to prevent transmission of diseases when used in acupuncture clinics. In hospitals in China, incense made of artemisia and other herbal ingredients has been used to inhibit viruses and to reduce the bacterial count in the air.

What is moxibustion used for?

To warm meridians and expel cold. Cold slows the flow of qi, resulting in stagnation and pain. Moxa is used for pain that is worse with exposure to cold or damp weather, as with some types of arthritis pain.
To promote the smooth flow of qi and blood. Used on the abdomen, moxa helps with digestive problems or menstrual pain due to stagnation. It can be used to promote circulation over areas of chronic pain or muscle tension.
To guide qi and blood upward or downward. Energies in the body must flow in the correct direction. Disruption of this movement results in disease. For example, moxibustion at the point Kidney 1 (on the sole of the foot) guides qi downward and is used to treat disorders caused by excess energy in the upper body, like headaches or dizziness.
To strengthen yang from collapse. Yang collapse refers to extreme exhaustion, shock and fainting. Moxa can be used to restore the yang and revive the patient.
To prevent diseases and maintain health. Moxibustion can be used as a tonification treatment to help strengthen the organs and immune system.

What are the different techniques of moxa?

In the Clinic, we mostly use indirect types of moxa: needle moxa, stick moxa and moxa bowls. With all moxa, the patient feels a mild to moderate heat sensation on the area being treated.

Needle moxa: a rolled piece of moxa is placed on the end of an inserted needle and ignited.
Stick moxa: a moxa stick (about the shape and size of a cigar) is lit and held close to the skin.
Moxa bowls: pieces of moxa are inserted into a small disk that is placed on the skin.

Moxa can also be used with other substances to give different effects. For example, a piece of moxa can be placed on top of a slice of fresh ginger for severe cases of digestive weakness. Moxa can be placed on top of salt applied over the belly button to treat hernia pain or prolonged diarrhea.

Another type of moxa is direct moxa. In direct moxibustion, a small cone of moxa is placed directly on an acupuncture point and burned, but is extinguished or removed before it burns the skin. The patient experiences a heating sensation that penetrates deep into the skin, but should not experience any pain, blistering or scarring.

Traditionally, direct moxa involved scarring moxibustion. The moxa would be placed on a point and left on the point until it burns out completely. This would lead to localized blisters and scarring after healing. The prolonged healing process is thought to increase qi and blood flow to the point, making the treatment stronger. This type of moxa therapy is not done at the Clinic.

Any type heat applied to the body can increase the flow of qi and blood. Heat lamps, heating pads or warming liniments can give a similar effect to moxibustion. But the heat combined with the powerful healing properties of mugwort gives moxibustion a proven advantage.

References:

Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing: Foreign Language Press, 1987.

Subhuti Dharmananda, Ph.D., 'Moxibustion: Practical Considerations for Modern Use of an Ancient Technique'

www.acupuncturetoday.com/abc/moxibustion.php

Relieving Menstrual Cramps

2009-09-05T05:45:00.000-04:00

By Joshua Herr, L.Ac.

Many women experience uterine cramping with their menstrual cycle. For some, these are mild cramps that can be alleviated by having an herbal remedy on hand such as the Seven Forest herbal pill called Corydalis 5, which relaxes the uterus and relieves pain. For others, the uterine cramping can be so severe that it limits normal activity. This type of relentless, severe menstrual cramping is a medical condition called dysmenorrhea.

The conventional treatment for dysmenorrhea includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS such as aleve or ibuprofen) and hormonal therapies like the birth control pill. These medicines can be effective, but have side effects such as stomach bleeding, nausea, weight gain, and mood changes. Acupuncture can provide effective lasting relief of dysmenorrhea without side effects.

In 1987, Dr. Helms published a study titled Acupuncture for the Management of Primary Dysmenorrhea . The study compared a true acupuncture group, a sham acupuncture group and two control groups of patients who received treatment for three months. Ninety percent of the patients who received true acupuncture showed improvement compared to 10% and 18% in the two control groups. In addition, there was a 41% reduction in analgesic medicine in the women who received real acupuncture compared to no change or an increase use of analgesic medicines in the other treatment groups. Chinese Medicine understands that the symptom of menstrual cramping indicates that the mind, body, spirit is out of balance. There are several different patterns of imbalance that can be identified.

The Chinese Medicine doctor’s role is to simplify the myriad of symptoms and understand them in simple terms such as excess, deficiency, hot or cold. By identifying the pattern the doctor can formulate an acupuncture therapy, differentiate the most beneficial herbs, and most importantly educate the patient on preventative self-care strategies. When the patient understands her Chinese medicine diagnosis, she can make diet and lifestyle choices that create internal harmony and eradicate the symptom of menstrual pain.

References:
Obstetrics and Gynecology. "Acupuncture for the management of primary dysmenorrhea." Helms JM. 1987 Jan;69(1):51-6.

Acupuncture & TMJ

2009-09-01T09:45:00.000-04:00

By David Trevino, L.Ac.

Temporo Mandibular Joint syndrome (TMJ) is a condition that is related to the muscles and tendons connecting the jaw to the skull. People who suffer from TMJ often experience jaw pain that may radiate to the neck and shoulders, difficulty opening and closing the mouth, popping and clicking of the jaw, facial pain, headaches, ear pain and ringing in the ears.

There are several causes of TMJ, including overstretching the jaw during dental procedures/surgery, injury, repetitive movements, movement and misalignment of teeth and jaw, and clenching and grinding of the teeth.

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), about 25 million Americans may experience some or all of these symptoms during their lifetime. Women are more likely to experience TMJ than men.

Western medical treatment options include anti-inflammatory medications, mouth guard or oral splints, even surgery.

In 1997 the NIH created a panel of pain specialists, who concluded that, "Acupuncture may be an acceptable alternative to treat TMJ." Today TMJ is treated successfully with acupuncture.

Acupuncture meridian theory provides a good explanation for the treatment of TMJ. For example, the meridians that cross along the jaw area are related to the energy of the Stomach, Gallbladder and Small Intestine. When the energy of these pathways is blocked, pain results.

The pain can be relieved by inserting needles into specific points on the body, which facilitates the flow of energy in the blocked pathways. The trick is to determine which pathways are blocked, so that the acupuncturist can then attempt to open them up to relive the pain. Utilizing pulse diagnosis can help the acupuncturist determine which channels are most likely to be involved in creating the condition.

The approach for the treatment of TMJ with acupuncture varies. Some practitioners prefer to place needles locally in the affected area of pain and focus on placing needles around the ear and along the jaw. Other methods include using points distally along the ankles, big toe, elbows and knees.

Specific points along the body may be included to treat the underlying cause of the problem. In some cases, electrical stimulation of the acupuncture points is used in order to help the jaw relax. Herbal medicines may also be prescribed. If the TMJ has been chronic, several treatments are usually necessary.

Migraines and Chinese Medicine: Study Supports the Efficacy of Acupuncture Treatments

2009-08-29T06:45:00.000-04:00

By Eric Aufdencamp, L.Ac.

The results of a study published in March 2008 in Headache Journal, conducted at the University of Padua in Italy, confirmed that acupuncture significantly reduces migraines and works better than drugs alone. Chinese medicine is extremely effective at treating the root causes of migraine headaches. All disorders in Chinese medicine require differentiating the cause of the disharmony. In other words, for every disorder, there can be multiple causes. Treating illness in this way allows us to treat individuals according to their unique pattern and constitution. Evaluation tools such as tongue and pulse diagnosis allow us to individualize our treatment plan.

Diagnosis can include using symptoms associated with each meridian, and from this information create an acupuncture point prescription. For example, in Chinese medicine, pain that is one-sided or goes from side to side is often related to the Gallbladder meridian. The Gallbladder meridian is paired with the Liver meridian. Together they form a yin-yang pair; what affects one, will affect the other. Pain around the eye, near the temples or top of the head relates to the influence of the Liver pathway. Each pathway has a part of the body it 'opens to', and the eyes 'open to' the Liver. This association explains the light sensitivity or visual auras that often precede migraines.

The Liver and Gallbladder meridians can become 'stagnant', or congested due to many different factors. Emotions can be a major contributor. Specifically, anger, frustration, irritability, and resentment can cause a disruption in the meridian causing pain or discomfort. Nausea and vomiting associated with migraines is due to the Liver meridian adversely affecting the Stomach Qi.

There are many combinations of patterns that can be present. The goal of the practitioner is to determine the main ones and treat accordingly, as well as provide diet and lifestyle guidelines for homecare.

***

Below are just a few self-care guidelines for the treatment of headaches. If your migraines continue after instituting these changes, please call our office for a consultation.

Migraine Relief Prescription:

1. Walk slowly and mindfully outside every day. Walking is the movement that best helps circulate Qi throughout the Liver and Gallbladder meridians.

2. Gradually reduce and eliminate coffee consumption. In Chinese dietary theory, coffee is hot and drying and aggravates the Liver. Coffee can symptomatically relieve migraines for some, as it moves the stagnation, but daily use is detrimental.

3. Use lavender essential oils topically on the temples. It helps to calm the mind and is beneficial to Liver qi congestion.

4. Perform self-massage techniques:

LI 4: Between the thumb and index finger in the webbing, press towards the bone of the index finger.

LV 3: Press between the big toe and second toe about two fingers away from the webbing towards the ankle.

Cool Tips for a Hot Summer

2009-08-24T06:45:00.000-04:00

By Eric Aufdencamp, L.Ac.

This article focuses on several common home remedies you can use to deal with the heat of summer season.

In Chinese medicine, the summer season corresponds to the Heart. The flavor of the Heart is bitter. Fire is the element associated with the Heart, and red is the color. Fire tends to go upward in the body, just as we know that heat rises in a building.

In herbal medicine, the bitter taste causes descent. When there is excess heat, bitter can help to drain that heat downward. When we prescribe a formula to clear excess heat, we tell our patients that mild diarrhea or loose stools can occur. Heat is being cleared through the bowels. Excess heat in the body dries up the fluids, so it’s important to keep it in check.

Sweat is considered a by-product of the blood in Chinese medicine, so for people with blood deficiency (weak constitutions), it’s important not to sweat excessively or for prolonged periods of time.

Summer-Heat Exhaustion:
If you are out in the sun too long, a quick short-term food therapy you can utilize is watermelon. It is extremely cooling and is excellent at treating severe heat exhaustion. The white meat that is close to the peel is the strongest heat clearing part of the melon. It helps the yin that was depleted from sweating too much.

Pink-Eye (Conjunctivitis):
Make a compress of chrysanthemum or chamomile tea and place over the affected area 3 to 9 times a day depending on the severity of the condition. These two herbs are bitter and have anti-bacteria and anti-viral properties.

Diarrhea:
In Chinese medicine, strong-smelling diarrhea that occurs in the summertime, is often due to damp-heat. The patent remedy Huo Xiang Cheng Qi Tang is an excellent short-term remedy. It can often times be effective for diarrhea from other causes, especially the stomach flu. This remedy is in the first-aid and travel kit sold at the Clinic.

Burns:
For burns of any kind, the Clinic’s burn cream is an excellent remedy that can usually prevent blistering and soothes the pain very quickly. It can stain, so be careful to protect your clothes or sheets. Another remedy that is excellent for burns is lavender essential oil. It is suggested that only medicinal grade oils be used for topical application. The Clinic only sells essential oils that are medical grade and have not been adulterated.

Insect Bites:
White flower oil is a liniment used for inflammatory pain that is worse with heat. It is also an excellent remedy to apply to insect bites. It can help soothe the itching and irritation. It may even be applied for prevention. The strong odor helps mask the natural body scent that attracts most insects.

Poison Ivy:
Due to rising carbon dioxide levels in our atmosphere, poison ivy abundance has increased. Studies have shown that increased carbon dioxide levels have also created stronger strains of urushiol, the oil from the plant that makes the skin itch.

A product called Tech-nu Extreme is great to have at home in case of exposure. Tech-nu Extreme is sold at CVS. Use it to wash all the areas that have been, or have possibly been, in contact with poison ivy. The soap is very effective at washing away the urushiol.

The Clinic has blended an essential oil, which is very effective at soothing the irritation and helping the skin heal, if the urushiol has been in contact with the skin long enough to cause an irritation.

Tips for Childhood Immunizations

2009-08-21T18:30:00.000-04:00

By Cissy Majebe, L.Ac.

With each new school year, there is a lot of attention given to the vaccinations that are required for the year. Many parents have requested information regarding our recommendations when your child is receiving immunizations.

From a Chinese Medicine perspective, an immunization introduces the "medicine" directly into the blood system, where it bypasses the bodies first defense system known as the Wei Qi, or Protective Qi, that is active to help protect us from pathogenic factors. It is this direct introduction into the blood system that can create a negative reaction for some children.

To lessen the chances here are some simple suggestions:

1. Do Not Give your children immunizations when they are already sick. If your child is ill, wait a week and then have your child immunized.

2. After your child has received an immunization, make sure that they eat well, get plenty of rest and drink plenty of water. (Notice I said water, not fluids, juices or tea are not as useful as water for nourishing the yin fluids of the body.

3. After an injection, give your child a warm bath with 5 drops of peppermint or eucalyptus essential oil and ten drops of Pine in a bath. These essential oils can also be used when your child appears to be coming down with an upper respiratory infection.

4. Learn Gua Sa from one of the practitioners at the office. After immunizations, gua sa the area from the base of the occiput to the bottom of the shoulder blades approximately one inch to each side of the spine.

5. FOOD THERAPY: After immunizations, grind one half cup of black sesame seeds and then cook them for 15 minutes in one cup of liquid. These seeds are high in Omega oils and are useful for clearing heat.

6. A good "over the counter" herbal remedy after immunizations is Yin Qiao San in a tincture form. (Ask your practitioner for dosing.)

If, AFTER all of the above, your child gets a runny nose or a fever, bring them in for an appointment.

Understanding GMP and Quality Control of Chinese Herbs

2009-08-18T06:45:00.000-04:00

By Ann Wolman, L.Ac., & Joshua Herr, L.Ac.

Many people are aware that China has made headlines in the last several years for allowing unsafe products to be placed in the marketplace. This has led several patients of the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic to ask about quality control of the herbs that we use.

The Chinese Acupuncture Clinic Dispensary would like to address this concern by informing you about where our Chinese Herbal Products come from and explaining about the quality control of the products we are using. As you know, we have numerous brands of pills, whole herbs, granules, tinctures and essential oils.

Our tinctures and essential oils are the two items we dispense that are not manufactured in China. A company in New Mexico produces the tinctures. Our manufacturers of essential oils are located primarily in Europe. We have concentrated on obtaining the highest quality, internal grade essential oil collection. These essential oils are extracted without the use of solvents, which creates a product that is more potent and suitable for multiple forms of use.

Our manufacturers of pills, whole herbs and granules have been internationally as well as China GMP certified. GMP stands for current Good Manufacturing Practice. This international term is recognized worldwide and is used for the control and management of manufacturing and quality control testing of foods, pharmaceuticals and medical devices. It first appeared in the U.S. as part of the 1938 Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.

GMP certification means that the facility and methods used in the production of products has been subject to a thorough quality control investigation and is certified to be in compliance. This covers all aspects of manufacturing, including inspection of the building and grounds, the air and water purification systems, the handling and processing of raw herbs, the product manufacturing process, the operation and cleaning of equipment, the training of personnel as well as quality control testing and documentation.

By June of 2010 the manufacture of all dietary supplements in the United States will be subject to national GMP requirements.

The companies that import the herbs we use are responsible for ensuring that manufacturers are adhering to GMP standards. Testing includes moisture content and amounts of heavy metals and mold found in sample batches. An example of how Lanzhou Foci Herb factory reports to Mayway, the company that imports herbs for sale at the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic can be found on the web at www.mayway.com.

Each herbal product manufactured in China is licensed, as drugs are in the U.S., and is produced according to stringent Chinese Pharmacopoeia guidelines and government sanctioned references. This assures that the products are sourced, formulated, extracted and tested according to laboratory and clinical parameters. The high standard for quality control insures consumer safety. Additionally, the FDA monitors the safety of herbal products coming into the country. Chinese herbs are routinely held and inspected, often causing backorders and delays.

The Chinese Acupuncture Clinic Dispensary is dedicated to providing the safest and most effective herbs and herbal products available. We are updated on a regular basis by our distributors and professional organizations regarding herbal medicine safety issues and changes to FDA rules and regulations. We put our patients first when making decisions regarding our herb supply. If you have any questions regarding our products do not hesitate to call the clinic at 828-258-9016.

Quieting Your Mind and Making Friends With Your Experience Through Contemplation

2009-08-15T06:45:00.000-04:00

By Ann Wolman, L.Ac.

As practitioners of Chinese medicine, we tell our patients every day about the importance of relaxation and stress reduction. We encourage them to take time each day for quiet contemplation. Many people are motivated toward contemplative prayer, but they are worried that they will somehow do it wrong or fail at the task. Contemplation and relaxation are not jobs that we need to complete or endeavors we can fail.

I would like to encourage you to do some contemplative prayer or meditation with the simple idea of slowing down and making friends with your mental process. There is no single way to quiet the mind.

Every religion in the world encourages some form of prayer or meditation. Some traditions suggest prayer in order to cultivate a relationship with God, others offer meditation as a way to focus our minds and tame our emotions. Numerous studies have shown relaxation to have a beneficial effect on mood, blood pressure, pain control, digestion and sleep.

If you take the time to watch your mind, you see that the nature of thoughts and feelings is to rise and fall. Even if we want to, we cannot hold them or make them permanent. This is often compared with the nature of waves rising and falling on the surface while the ocean depths remain calm.

As you pay more attention, you may notice that there are short gaps of silence between thoughts and moments of peace between the waves of emotion. The notion is to attend less to our thoughts and ideas about our feelings, and more to the silent awareness that is always present within us. We become less identified with our mental state and more grounded in silence.

There are an endless variety of relaxation techniques. Generally speaking, these techniques offer a reference point for the mind. This can be focusing on one's breath, a sound, or a saying, such as an affirmation or prayer, or even something else. In any case, the idea is to spend time quieting the mind itself.

The Nobel Peace Prize winning monk Thich Nhat Hanh offers a simple introductory meditation practice that I have taught to numerous patients. Just to emphasize: you cannot do this wrong. If you can only sit for 5 minutes, you have been successful. If you run screaming from the room and your own craziness, you have done it right, and if you fall into a deep sleep, it is just fine.

***

This is a breathing meditation and ideally you will begin with trying it for 5 minutes a day. Watching your breath, you will say to yourself a short word or phrase with each "in" breath and with each "out" breath. You can say the words out loud or not, whichever you prefer.

It goes like this:

IN BREATH / OUT BREATH:
IN / OUT
DEEP / SLOW
CALM / EASE
SMILE / RELEASE
THIS MOMENT / PERFECT MOMENT

Spend 5 or so minutes with each sequence pair (IN/OUT, DEEP/SLOW) for a total of 20 minutes or so. It can be done sitting down, lying down or even walking. You can't do it wrong.

You are likely to notice that within what seems like a nano-second, your mind will begin to wander. You will think about all the things you should be doing. You may congratulate yourself for your work at this meditation thing. You may berate yourself for some past mistake. Mental chatter is endlessly varied.

Your mind may wander down long roads of the past and the future. It may take a long time to realize that you are no longer thinking IN/OUT, DEEP/SLOW, etc. No worry. You will realize it, and when you do, just gently label whatever flights of fancy you are indulging in "thinking" and come back to the meditation.

Begin to notice the space between the words, when nothing is occurring, and give it attention. You may find that peace and quiet are always present; we need only attend to them.

If you need more information on relaxation techniques, ask your practitioner at the Clinic for guidance.

Enjoy the peace.

Chinese Medicine & the Treatment for Heartburn

2009-08-11T06:45:00.000-04:00

By David Treviño, LAc

According to the National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases, in 2007, 19 million people in the United States reported symptoms of heartburn, the most common symptom caused by Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). As a result, about 60 to 70 million Americans who suffer from GERD spend approximately $107 billion yearly on drugs and antacids in an attempt to ameliorate the pain and prevent damage to their esophagus.

The National Institute of Health (NIH) maintains that the cause of acid reflux is still unclear, but two anatomical abnormalities -- malfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and hiatal hernias -- seem to be related to GERD. Other factors contributing to GERD include genetics, Helicobacter bacterium, obesity, smoking, pregnancy, certain foods, medications such as aspirin, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, calcium channel blockers, asthma drugs, and hormones. Complications from heartburn may include esophageal stricture, bleeding, pain during swallowing, ulceration and Barrett's esophagus (a pre-cancerous lining of the esophagus).

Western medical treatment for GERD includes calcium tablets (TUMS) and proton pump inhibitors such as Nexium, Prilosec, Prevacid, Acifex, and Protonix. Long term use of these overly prescribed medications include constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, abdominal pain, dizziness, headaches, nausea, rashes, breast enlargement in men, anemia, and bone loss. For many individuals who discontinue the use of these medications, the heartburn symptoms return as the underlying imbalance is not corrected. Chinese Medical modalities such as acupuncture, herbal medicines and lifestyle education have been used for centuries as effective and natural treatments for GERD.

According to Chinese Medicine, the most common reasons that create energetic imbalances resulting in GERD are emotional upset and eating the wrong foods.

Chinese Medicine views reflux as rebellious energy (Qi) that is rising up into the esophagus rather than descending to the small intestine. Two common energy imbalances related to acid regurgitation include Stomach Fire and Liver Qi invading the Stomach. Stomach Fire occurs when too much heat overflows into the Stomach. Liver Qi invading the Stomach occurs when the Liver energy impairs the Stomach descending function resulting in acid regurgitation. Specific acupuncture points are used to treat each of these energetic imbalances.

Combining acupuncture with Chinese herbal formulas is recommended as these medicines can be used to cool the Stomach Fire or to regulate the overbearing Liver energy. For most who suffer with GERD regaining a balanced and healthy digestive system includes dietary, lifestyle changes, exercising regularly and learning relaxation techniques. Lifestyle recommendations include: quitting smoking, eliminating or reducing alcohol, refraining from eating before going to bed, avoiding fast foods, and consuming four to six light meals a day, instead of two or three large meals. Finally, avoid common food triggers such as dairy products, tomatoes, citrus fruits and beverages, garlic, peppermint, and fish oil supplements.

If you are experiencing acid reflux, call the Clinic at 828-258-9016.

FREE Public Talk TOMORROW: Migraine Relief With Chinese Medicine

2009-08-09T06:53:00.004-04:00

Free Public Talk:
“TREATING MIGRAINES WITH
CHINESE MEDICINE”
Presented by:
Eric Aufdencamp, D.O.M.
(Doctor of Oriental Medicine)
Monday, AUGUST 10
5:30 - 7 PM
Earthfare Community Room,
Westgate Shopping Center

Join Eric to learn how Chinese medicine can help you be free of migraines. He will share how many of his patients have received relief from their migraines by using Chinese medicine.

In this talk, you will learn how:
· Chinese medicine theory explains and treats migraines
· Emotions impact your health
· Chinese herbs play a key role in treating migraines

After this evening, you will have tools you can use to reduce migraines:
· Stress-reduction techniques
· Application of essential oils
· Simple dietary guidelines
· Acupressure points for pain relief

Question and answer session to follow talk.

Eric received his Master’s of Oriental Medicine in 2001 from Southwest Acupuncture College in Albuquerque, NM. He completed an advanced internship in Beijing in 2000. Since 2002, he has been practicing at the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic in Asheville.

Foods for the Summer Season

2009-08-08T06:30:00.000-04:00

By Junie Norfleet, L.Ac.

According to Chinese medicine theory, the summer season is associated with the element Fire, which corresponds to the Heart, Small Intestine, San Jiao, and Pericardium organ systems. The Heart system is the Sovereign Ruler, enabling us to see clearly and to serve with compassion. The Small Intestine system assists in digestion and assimilation of the foods consumed by separating pure and impure and extracting nourishment from ingested foods. The Pericardium system is the "Heart Protector," while the San Jiao system is responsible for the movement of fluids in the body.

The fire element is symbolic of yang, and is manifested as heat, great activity, reaching outward and moving forward in our lives and in nature. Since the fire element rules the heart, mind and spirit, the summer is a time to pacify and nourish our spirits and to find joy in hot summer days and warm summer nights. A balance in the fire element provides a strong and healthy heart, a mind that is calm, sleep that is refreshing, and proper absorption of ingested foods.

To maintain good health, food choices change with the seasons. Summer is a time of growth and maturation of flowers and vegetables. The qi of the plant is the most vital when the plant blooms. It is also a season of increased heat and activity.

The foods that we consume in the summer should help to keep us cool and energized. Foods with cool properties can clear heat, reduce toxins and generate body fluids. Eating more organic, locally grown raw fruits and vegetables at this time of year is ideal, particularly if you have strong Spleen and Stomach systems.

Foods that are cooling tend towards the green end of the color spectrum. Lettuce, cucumbers and watercress are some of the coolest. Fish and seafood are more cooling, whereas most meats are warming.

Below are some suggestions for foods to be sure to include in the summer diet. Be aware that melons are very cooling, and when eaten alone, can produce dampness. If eaten as a part of the meal or as a dessert, their cool nature can also slow the digestive process of the meal.

Fruits:
Watermelon, Cantaloupe, Lemon, Orange, Peach, Apricot, Pear

Vegetables:

Snow Peas, Asparagus, Spinach, Bamboo, Sprouts, Bok Choy, Watercress, Broccoli, Summer Squash, Cucumber, Chinese Cabbage, Corn, White Mushrooms, Seaweed, Winter Melons

Legumes:
Mung Beans, White Lentils

Spices:
Cilantro, Mint, Dill

General Guidelines for Summertime Eating:

Increase foods with the yin qualities of being moist and cooling. The most yin of foods are fruits followed by vegetables. Overeating yin nourishing foods can create dampness by taxing the Spleen system. Chinese medicine recognizes that dampness can help to hold health conditions in place, so be cautious not to eat only yin nourishing foods.
Reduce the foods with the yang qualities of concentration and heat. These are proteins such as meats, nuts, seeds, beans, fats, dairy products, eggs and whole grains.
Have a variety of colors on your plate and an abundant variety of vegetables.
Cook lightly, steaming or simmering foods as quickly as possible.
Use little salt and more water.
Drink hot liquids and take warm showers to induce sudden sweating and to cool the body.
Drink flower and leaf teas like chrysanthemum, mint and chamomile. (See recipe on previous page.)
Slice a cucumber or lemon and place it in a pitcher of water. Sip it through the day for a nice, refreshing drink that is tasty and cooling.
Avoid iced drinks and ice cream as the cold temperature causes the digestion to slow and depletes the Spleen's energy.
Avoid heavy foods such as meats and too many nuts, seeds, and grains, especially on hotter days, since these can cause sluggishness.

Strive to Acquire the Following Eating Habits:

Chew your food well.
Stop eating when you are seven-tenths full to enhance digestion and to support the body's ability to properly process waste products.
Eat in a quiet, non-stressful atmosphere.
Finish your last meal of the day three hours before bedtime.
Eat a diet of primarily lightly cooked foods, especially if you have weak digestion.

Remember to eat colorful, lightly prepared meals, to be active and outgoing, and to nourish your mind and spirit as you enjoy your summer.

****

Cold Chrysanthemum Tea for the Summertime

The recipe below was published by Diane Joswick, L. Ac. This tea is especially good to quench thirst. I have modified the amounts of the chrysanthemum green tea and water in the recipe to make a smaller amount.

Ingredients:

15-20 White Chrysanthemum Flowers
1 teaspoons of Jasmine Yinhao Green Tea
Honey
1 liter of water

Instructions:

Wash the chrysanthemum.
Put chrysanthemum and tea into a cook pot.
Pour in 1 liter of water and bring it to boiling.
Reduce heat and continue to cook for 20 minutes.
Put in the honey.
Remove pot from the heat and allow tea to cool till room temperature.
Strain the tea and put into refrigerator.

Serve the tea slightly chilled.

Enjoy your summer!

Body Scan for Self-Cultivation

2009-08-04T05:45:00.000-04:00

By Junie Norfleet, L.Ac.

Many of us get home from work stressed from the day’s activity. A way to speed the relaxation process and shedding the day’s stresses is to take ten minutes to do a body scan. This scan can also be done a part of the routine preparation of bedtime to assist falling asleep more quickly.

Sit or lie comfortably. Close your eyes and begin this exercise by noticing where there is tension in the area of the head. Notice the lips, the jaw muscles, the eyes, the space between the eyebrows, the scalp, the occiput, and the neck. You are just noticing any place in the region of the head where you feel tension, tightness, or that energy is not moving. Take one deep breath for each of the spaces in which you noticed tension, and image the breath going into the space in which you feel that energy is not moving, or that there is tightness or tension.

Next move to the region of the chest. Notice where the ribs meet the sternum, the space between the ribs, the area of the collar bone, and the shoulder joints. Again, once you notice where the tension and stagnation are, image one breath going into each area to help create space and relax the muscles and tissues.

Now move your attention to the abdomen and the area below the navel. Notice the abdominal muscles, the muscles of the groin and the thighs, the knee joints, the calf muscles, the ankles and feet, especially between the many bones in the feet. Once again, use the breath to create space and relax the area. Continue this exercise by moving to the back of the body.

Pay attention to where the ribs join the spine, the low back and sacral areas, and the hip joints. The sacrum has four small holes on each side in which a great deal of stagnation can gather, and the spine tends to stiffen with tension as we go through our day. Once you have used the breath to help move stagnation and tension and create space in these areas you will feel rejuvenated and relaxed -- ready to enter the routine of “home.”

This exercise can be done on three levels. You can just notice the tension on the surface of the body, which is pretty easy for all of us. As you do this exercise more and more, you will begin to notice tension in the deeper levels of the muscles, and then begin to notice tension and stagnation in the organs of the body. Using the breath to help relax the body in all three of these levels may take more than ten minutes, but will add years to your life.

FREE Open House at Hendersonville's Chinese Acupuncture Clinic

2009-07-30T06:25:00.001-04:00

August 1, Saturday
10 am - 2 pm

206 Chadwick Ave
828-698-3335

Prizes Will Be Given Every 30 Minutes!

Including: 1 free acupuncture treatment & 1 free massage

*Refreshments for Everyone*

SCHEDULE

10 - 11 am
Experience Auricular Acupuncture -
Experience ear acupuncture in a group setting.

11 - 11:30 am
Presentation: "Staying Healthy with Chinese Medicine"

11:30 am - 12 pm
Qi Gong with Junie Norfleet, L.Ac. -
Experience a self cultivation Qi exercise instructed by Junie.

12 - 2 pm
Experience Chinese Medicine Manual Therapies -
Sign-up for a 15 minute demo of cupping, gua sha, or tui na massage.

For more information, we can also be contacted through the Asheville Clinic:

Chinese Acupuncture Clinic
369 Montford Ave
Asheville, North Carolina 28801
828.258.9016

Providing Chinese Medicine in Rural Guatemala

2009-07-27T08:49:00.000-04:00

By Eric Aufdencamp, L.Ac.

In May 2008, I had the privilege of doing volunteer work with a non-profit called GUAMAP, the Guatemala Acunpuncture and Medical Aid Project. The organization sends Spanish-speaking acupuncturists and other health care volunteers to remote villages in northern Guatemala. They teach health promoters acupuncture skills so they can treat those in need. Health promoters are Guatemalans who receive special training in basic medicine to help the people in their communities. I am looking forward to returning this summer as well.

The first time around each practitioner was interviewed to assess the effectiveness of their treatments. Everyone responded that they were pleased with their results. They also reported that the demand and request for treatments continues to grow.

One of the more seasoned practitioners was pleased to tell us about a practitioner from the level two training, who had successfully treated four cases of poisonous snake bites with moxa. He was impressed, because he had always had access to western medicine and did not want to take the risk of seeing if the treatment would be successful. However, his colleague, who did not have any other options since he lived far from any western medical facility, treated him just with moxa.

The health promoters are working to create a local acupuncture committee to support each other, as well as to improve their status as health practitioners. Indeed, many of them provide other types of healthcare education, such as oral hygiene. The level of enthusiasm and interest in Chinese medicine shows that it will continue to flourish in a country where many lack access to basic medical services.

During my time teaching and treating patients, I was reminded of the ability of Chinese medicine to heal and improve the lives of so many people. I look forward to working with GUAMAP again this year and thank all of you who so generously supported my participation in this wonderful program.

Eric Aufdencamp, D.O.M., To Give Free Public Talk About Migraine Relief With Chinese Medicine

2009-07-24T06:31:00.014-04:00

Free Public Talk:
“TREATING MIGRAINES
WITH CHINESE MEDICINE”
Presented by:
Eric Aufdencamp, D.O.M.
(Doctor of Oriental Medicine)
Monday, AUGUST 10
5:30 - 7 PM
Earthfare Community Room, Westgate Shopping Center

Join Eric to learn how Chinese medicine can help you be free of migraines. He will share how many of his patients have received relief from their migraines by using Chinese medicine.

In this talk, you will learn how:
· Chinese medicine theory explains and treats migraines
· Emotions impact your health
· Chinese herbs play a key role in treating migraines

After this evening, you will have tools you can use to reduce migraines:
· Stress-reduction techniques
· Application of essential oils
· Simple dietary guidelines
· Acupressure points for pain relief

Question and answer session to follow talk.

Eric received his Master’s of Oriental Medicine in 2001 from Southwest Acupuncture College in Albuquerque, NM. He completed an advanced internship in Beijing in 2000. Since 2002, he has been practicing at the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic in Asheville.

The Treatment of Childhood Eczema and Chinese Medicine

2009-07-23T06:00:00.000-04:00

By Eric Aufdencamp, L.Ac.

Chinese medicine is very effective in the treatment of childhood eczema. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, refers to inflammation of the skin and a group of other allergic diseases that commonly develop concurrently or later in life. The most common symptoms include: itchy, red, inflamed skin that may be dry and scaly or exude a clear to yellowish fluid. A Western medical diagnosis provides useful information, but the best information for your acupuncturist is the specific symptoms your child has. This information guides the diagnosis and treatment process.

Chinese Medicine and Eczema

From a Chinese Medicine perspective, the skin not being properly nourished is the main underlying reason that eczema occurs. The Blood and fluids nourish the skin in Chinese Medicine theory. The manifestations of the condition will reveal the specific disharmony disrupting the flow of Blood to the skin. Although there can be many diagnoses in Chinese medicine, some of the most common are: phlegm and damp accumulation, heat in the Blood and/or Blood deficiency. The root of most childhood eczema is chronic lingering pathogenic factor (LPF). This refers to improper treatment of an illness that your child may not have fully recovered from, or the result of some pharmaceuticals. It is important to determine which factor is predominant for the initial treatment. Below are types of eczema and their causes according to Chinese Medicine theory.

1. Phlegm and Dampness Accumulation: This type of eczema is generally caused by a weakness of the Spleen, which then creates dampness. Symptoms can include: rash with oozing fluids, nasal discharge, productive cough, and skin with a yellowish hue.

2. Heat: The heat may be the result of ‘fetal toxins’ or ‘constitutional weaknesses.’ Symptoms may include: red face, irritability, hot to the touch or hot all the time, restlessness, excessive thirst, and appetite. The lesions may be dry if heat is more prominent than dampness.

3. Qi and Blood Deficiency: This is caused by weakness of the Spleen that produces the Blood that nourishes the skin. Symptoms include: dry, flaky skin with a rash that is not very severe, pale or white face, poor appetite, shadows under eyes. The child may tend to be lethargic.

4. Lingering Pathogenic Factor: Symptoms may include: swollen glands in neck or groin, history of repeated illness, frequent antibiotic use, and immunizations.

5. Accumulation Disorder: This is caused by a weakness of the Spleen causing an accumulation dampness that combines with heat. It can be the result of introducing new foods, which are difficult to digest; frequent feedings, which weaken the Spleen; or the use of antibiotics, which create dampness. Symptoms: red, oozing rash, strong constitution, green nasal discharge, swollen abdomen, foul-smelling stools or scent of apples, red cheeks with green hue around the mouth, and irregular stools.

Home Care for Pediatric Eczema

The root of most cases of childhood eczema is the Spleen/Stomach system. That is why diet is one of the most important ways to treat and prevent childhood eczema.

1. Eliminate: excessively sweet foods such as juices, tropical fruits, peanuts, dairy, oily, fried foods, wheat and all sugar.

2. Put your infant on a regular feeding schedule and don’t feed every time they are fussy or cry.

3. Apply a customized essential oil blend to soothe and heal the skin. It must be extracted without chemical solvents, otherwise it may irritate the skin or have very little to no therapeutic effect.

4. An oatmeal bath helps soothe the itchiness associated with many inflammatory skin conditions.

5. Talk to your acupuncturist about home massage techniques you can perform on your child to strengthen his or her Spleen/Stomach (digestive system) meridians.

6. Avoid steroid creams and ointments, if at all possible. They may drive the causative factor deeper into the body, thereby weakening other internal organs.

Beat The Heat With Cool Herbs

2009-07-20T06:10:00.000-04:00

By Rachel Nowakowski, L.Ac.

During the hot weather, we automatically reach for an iced cold beverage to cool us down and quench our thirst. But is it the best thing for us?

Drinking iced cold fluids only lowers the body temperature temporarily. The stomach then has to work twice as hard to produce enough heat for digestion which makes you hotter. And more thirsty.

It may sound crazy, but a cup of hot tea in the hot weather can actually cool you down. Drinking warmer fluids dilates the blood vessels which makes you sweat and the sweat evaporation cools you down.

Two popular Chinese herbs for clearing heat from the body are field mint, Herba Mentha Haplocalycis (Bo He) and chrysanthemum flowers, Chrysanthemum Moriflorii, (Ju Hua).

Both of these herbs are classified as cool, acrid herbs which relieve heat of the upper body, i.e. head and chest. They are beneficial to the Liver energy and are helpful for eye and skin conditions.

These herbs are available at health food stores or from your Chinese medicine practitioner.

Cooling Peppermint & Chrysanthemum Tea

1 handful of dried mint
1 small handful of dried chrysanthemum flowers
3 quarts of water
Honey to taste

Instructions:
1. Put herbs into a cooking pot.
2. Pour in 3 quarts of water and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Add honey.
5. Strain out the herbs and refrigerate.
6. Drink cooled or at room temperature.

Enjoy!

An Introduction to "Latent Heat"

2009-07-17T08:35:00.000-04:00

By David Trevino, L.Ac.

Latent Heat is an ancient concept used to describe the manifestation of an External or Internal Pathogenic Factor that does not create immediate symptoms, but remains latent in the body.

In other words, when an external pathogenic factor such as Cold or Heat invades, and an individual's vital (Kidney) energy is weak, the pathogenic factor moves inward instead of being pushed out.

Ancient Chinese medical texts such as the book of Simple Questions, Chapter 3, describes latency in the following manner, "If Cold enters the body in winter-time; it comes out as Heat in springtime."

In reality, this can occur at any season, not just springtime. The process of latency is the body's attempt to hold on to something, when it does not have the energy to immediately dispel it, and may contribute to chronic conditions such as autoimmune disorders, chronic fatigue, digestive disorders, joint problems, AIDS, and cancer.

According to Giovanni Maciocia, the underlying reason for latent heat syndromes is usually a deficiency of the Kidney energy. He goes on to state that if the body condition is relatively good, a person will develop symptoms at the time when the external pathogenic factor invades. This is a healthy reaction.

On the other hand, if the body's energy is weakened by overtaxing the body with overwork, maintaining an unhealthy diet or lifestyle habits, this will make the person more vulnerable to acquiring a latent heat condition. Once the pathogen enters the interior of the body, it incubates, turns into Heat and will become evident some months later.

Latent Heat conditions are also described as originating from pestilent factors. In other words, latent heat can occur when a strong pestilent factor such as an epidemic febrile disease from a virus, bacteria or fungus invades our body.

Even if a person's vital energy is strong and has healthy lifestyle habits, the invasion of a pestilent pathogenic factor can overwhelm the body's defensive system and lead to a latent heat condition. When the pestilent factor moves inward, it usually lodges at the nutritive level called Ying Qi. This is often defined as the level of the blood vessels and the flesh.

On other occasions, pestilent pathogenic factors can travel to the (Jing), which is stored in the kidneys and is the densest physical matter within the body. The Jing is said to be the material basis for the physical body and fuels and cools the body and is the carrier of our heritage. For this reason, patients who suffer from latent heat conditions often experience signs as sudden fatigue, slight feeling of heat, swelling, insomnia, slight thirst, and others.

The treatment of latent heat conditions has been a part of Classical Chinese Medicine for several centuries. As a result, Chinese Medicine has developed a number of strategies to help people who suffer from latent conditions become asymptomatic.

The most obvious strategy is to help the body dispel the latent pathogenic factor by utilizing Chinese herbs and acupuncture. In other instances, it may be more appropriate to encourage latency and help the body keep the pathogenic factor from creating uncomfortable symptoms in order to not overwhelm the person's vital energy.

In summary, latent heat is a physiological manifestation resulting from the body's inability to expel a pathogenic factor from the exterior. These conditions are often a result of a weakened energy system due to overwork and unhealthy lifestyle habits. Latent heat conditions can appear months after the invasion of an external pathogenic factor such as a virus, bacteria or fungus that was not dispelled completely. The ensuing, often complex conditions are best treated by skilled practitioners of Chinese medicine, who are welled versed in latency conditions.

For more information of latent heat conditions call the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic at 828-258-9016.

References:
1. The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine-Simple Questions, 1979, People's Health Publishing House, Beijing, first published c. 100 BC, p. 21.
2. Maciocia, Giovanni. The Three Treasures Newsletter. Summer, 2006.
3. Kaptchuck, Ted J., The Web That Has No Weaver, Congdon & Weed; ISBN 0-8092-2933-1.

Infertility & Chinese Medicine: An Ancient Approach To A Modern Problem

2009-07-13T12:41:00.000-04:00

By Ann Wolman, L.Ac.

Chinese Medicine has been used for thousands of years to help parents conceive and carry pregnancies to full term. There is a growing body of research showing the efficacy of acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine in the treatment of infertility.

Historically, Chinese Medicine was used to keep the emperor healthy so that he could "live forever and father more sons." This ancient wisdom has provided many effective treatments for couples trying to conceive.

Acupuncture is well known as a combined therapy with IVF. In February of 2008, The British Medical Journal published results demonstrating that Acupuncture raises the odds of achieving pregnancy through IVF by 65 percent. Acupuncture can also be effective in combination with other therapies including artificial insemination and as a stand-alone approach to the treatment of infertility.

Infertility is defined as an inability to conceive after one year of unprotected sex or the inability to carry a pregnancy to term. Many factors contribute to this vexing problem: stress, poor diet, environmental degradation, age, family history and hormonal/endocrine imbalances to name a few.

Fertility rates appear to be declining in the industrialized nations of the world. It is now estimated that ten to fifteen percent of couples have difficulty conceiving. Recent research suggests that even as early as age 27 fertility rates in women may drop.

Many people are turning to Chinese medicine to enhance their chances of conception. These treatments can supplement or provide an alternative to invasive and costly Western Medicine fertility intervention.

Prior to treatment for infertility a thorough health history is obtained to establish a Chinese "pattern of disharmony." In Chinese medicine a woman's menstrual cycle is seen as a window into her physiology. Flow of qi and blood are assessed for blockage and deficiency aiding the practitioner in diagnosis and treatment. Information and feedback are gathered from each cycle, so treatments can be adjusted during the different phases of the month.

Acupuncture and moxibustion are used to restore harmony, and from a western medicine perspective, to reduce stress and balance hormone levels. Treatment can include soothing the flow of liver qi, nourishing liver blood and strengthening kidney energy to promote conception and prevent miscarriage. Individualized Chinese herbal formulas are used to move qi and blood, augment yin and yang, and enhance the body's ability to conceive.

It is common for couples to seek treatment for primary, secondary or even idiopathic infertility. In other words, western medical tests may or may not reveal any abnormalities. Fallopian tubes may not be blocked, ovulation may be occurring, and eggs may be viable, but there is still an inability to conceive.

In some cases, problems have been identified. For example, fallopian tubes may be blocked or scar tissue present. There may be no ovulation or the luteal phase is too short or long. In these cases, diagnosis and treatment from a Chinese Medical perspective can treat these conditions and allow for conception. In addition, men are often treated for low sperm count or motility and to encourage the compatibility of the sperm and egg during conception.

Every day more people are turning to the gentle and effective treatments for infertility that Chinese Medicine offers. Please contact our office if you or someone you love needs more information regarding treatment options for infertility.

References:
1. Lyttleton, Jane, Treatment of Infertility with Chinese Medicine, Churchill Livingston, England 2004.
2. Liang, Lifeng, OMD, PHD, LAC, Acupunture and IVF, Blue Poppy Press, Boulder Colorado 2003.
3. Maciocca, Giovanni, Obstectrics and Gynecology in Chinese Medicine, Churchill Livingston, Singapore 1998.

Uterine Fibroids & Chinese Medicine

2009-07-10T09:00:00.000-04:00

By Ann Wolman, L.Ac.

One of the most common women’s health concerns is the development of uterine fibroids. It is estimated by age 50 between 20% and 80% of women will have developed fibroids, or myomas, as they are also called.

Fibroids are muscular tumors that grow in the wall of the uterus (womb). Fibroids can grow as a single tumor or as many in the uterus. They are most often benign or non-cancerous. They can be as small as a seed or as big as a grapefruit and are often detectible by palpation if they are large enough. When small they are seen by ultrasound, MRI, X Ray, and CT scan. Western treatments are surgery and/or hormonal drug therapy.

There is no known cause for fibroids in Western Medicine. Researchers think that hormone levels and genetics may be two factors playing a role. They grow rapidly during pregnancy, when hormone levels are high and shrink generally when anti-hormone medication is used. Growth is also reduced once a woman reaches menopause and hormone levels drop off.

I would suggest that estrogen is the main culprit. I believe that there is a strong correlation between fibroid growth and the body’s overproduction of estrogen, a phenomenon commonly referred to as “ estrogen dominance.” This hormonal imbalance has been linked to the overuse of petroleum-based products and eating hormone-fed animal products, both of which cause women to overproduce estrogen. Estrogen feeds tissue growth and western scientific research has connected fibroids to heavily meat-based diets.

Symptoms of fibroids vary. Some women have no symptoms at all while in some cases fibroids can cause severe pain or heavy menstrual bleeding. In some cases, the fibroids put pressure on the bladder or the rectum and cause frequent urination or rectal pain. They can also cause low back pain, pain during sex, and even complications during pregnancy and delivery. They can contribute to menstrual cramps and fertility problems. If they get very big they can cause the stomach to enlarge giving the appearance that a woman is pregnant or obese and making movement difficult. Historically, fibroids have provided one of the most common rationales for hysterectomy.

In Chinese Medicine, uterine fibroids fall under two general categories of abdominal masses called Ji Ju. One of these is caused by stagnation of qi, blood and dampness that can become phlegm in the abdomen.

Emotional strain causes qi and blood to stagnate and over-consumption of damp producing food can lead to fibroids due to qi and blood stagnation.

The second type of uterine fibroids is related to yin deficiency. As women approach menopause, there is a natural decline of Kidney and Liver yin. If this yin deficiency is especially severe, the body may respond by creating more yin (or fluid). This process may become pathological. In this case, fibroids may be formed by what is termed yin stasis.

The treatment of fibroids in Chinese Medicine is very successful. It is essential for your practitioner to differentiate between fibroids due to qi, blood, and phlegm stasis and those due to yin stasis. Acupuncture, Chinese herbs, abdominal massage, topical herbal applications including caster oil packs with essential oils such as frankincense and lavender and qi gong are all useful in the treatment of myomas.

The traditional literature suggests that if fibroids are smaller than a “goose egg,” the prognosis for shrinking them is very good. If they are much larger, their growth may be arrested. Qi and blood-stasis-related fibroids tend to shrink naturally at menopause, while yin stasis fibroids may grow. In either case, surgery may be avoided with Chinese Medicine.

If you suspect fibroids, or are experiencing any unusual symptoms related to your menstrual cycle, schedule a visit with an acupuncturist at the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic.

Summer First Aid: Using Essential Oils

2009-07-06T12:07:00.000-04:00

By M. Cissy Majebe, L.Ac.

As we enter the summer season, there are a number of hazards to which we are exposed. These include insect bites, bee stings, sunburn and a greater likelihood of scrapes and tears, as children and adults alike return to playing outside.

Essential oils are a great way to treat many of these aggravations.

You may have tried essential oils in the past, but it is important that you have good quality oils. I do not recommend the essential oils that are purchased in local retail stores. There are oils that are used for aromatherapy, and there are oils that are medical grade. Medical grade essential oils can be used topically and internally. Oils that are not medical grade are often extracted with solvents or could be adulterated with less expensive or less pure oils.

Here are a few recommendations for using essential oils in this upcoming season. Before using essential oils, remember to only utilize medical grade oils for topical applications.

BEE STINGS AND INSECT BITES:

· Use Tea Tree, Ho Leaf and Eucalyptus Radiata essential oils
· Blend 20 drops of Tea Tree, 10 drops of Ho Leaf, 10 drops of Eucalyptus Radiata
· Apply directly to the area of the bee sting every one half hour until discomfort reduces and then 4-6 times a day

SUNBURN:

· Use a combination of Niaouli, Lavender and Frankincense
· Blend 10 drops of both Niaouli and Frankincense, and 20 drops of Lavender in a one third ounce of almond oil
· Apply topically to the area of the burn every hour while awake until the discomfort is relieved

Remedies for Home and Travel

2009-07-03T08:22:00.000-04:00

By Joshua Herr, L.Ac.

We have often been asked, "What herbs should I take with me while I'm traveling out of the country?" or "What herbs do you keep in your medicine cabinet at home?"

These inquiries have led us to compile remedy kits for our patients.

We have 3 Chinese Herbal Medicine kits available for purchase at CAC:

Home Remedy Kit
Travel Kit
Children's Home Remedies Booster Kit

Designed to treat common ailments, each kit comes with complete instructions on its application and dosing guidelines based on age.

The Children's Home Remedy Kit is comprised of tinctures and essential oil remedies. This allows the parent to have immediate access to a remedy so that treatment can begin quickly. We find that having access to herbal remedies at home and being able to begin treatment early can drastically shorten the duration of illness.

If there are questions about dosing or you are unsure which remedy would be the best choice for you or your child, one of our practitioners would be pleased to provide you with guidance.

Acupuncture for Post Surgical Dental Pain

2009-06-29T08:56:00.000-04:00

By David Treviño, L.Ac.

One of my colleagues recently needed gum surgery and was in a lot of pain after the procedure. Her dentist prescribed painkillers, but my colleague said that she did not like to take medications. I offered her an acupuncture treatment and during the treatment she said that she felt significantly more comfortable, relaxed and had less pain. I spoke to her a couple days later, and she said that the day after acupuncture, she had minimal dental pain and was able to avoid taking pain medication altogether. I was glad that the acupuncture treatment had been so helpful, and I decided to take this opportunity to do some research regarding this subject since it appears that most Americans are unaware of acupuncture’s effectiveness for dental pain.

Research regarding acupuncture for the treatment of dental pain appears to have started in the West in the early to mid 1970’s, but has been a part of Chinese Medicine for centuries. Most research in the West found acupuncture to be effective for dental pain, as well as for temperomandibular joint pain (TMJ) and post surgical dental pain.

Two important review articles that are still referenced today concerning dental pain and acupuncture were published in 1998 by Ernst & Pittler and in 2002 by Ted Kaptchuk. The investigators from these two review articles found that out of sixteen acupuncture trials for the treatment of dental pain, twelve of these trials had adequate methodology and concluded that “good evidence exists that acupuncture is effective for relieving dental pain.”

In my practice, I have found acupuncture to be helpful in managing dental pain. Many patients have described acupuncture to be effective in minimizing acute dental pain, and others have acquired pain relief while waiting for their dentist to perform a root canal. You may wish to consider acupuncture for post surgical dental pain, especially if you are sensitive or allergic to analgesics, or like my colleague, prefer to avoid pain medications altogether. Try using plain clove oil for tooth pain, or the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic’s mouthwash formula made from Chinese herbs that are helpful for gingivitis.

References:
1. Ernst E, Pittler MH: "The effectiveness of acupuncture in treating acute dental pain: a systematic review." Br Dent J 1998, 184:443-447
2. Ernst E, White AR: "Acupuncture as a treatment for temporomandibular joint dysfunction. A systematic review of randomized trials." Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1999, 125:269-272
3. Kaptchuk, T: "Acupuncture: Theory, Efficacy, and Practice." Ann Intern Med. 2002; 136:374-383.
4. Lao, L., Bergman, S., Hamilton, G., Langenberg., Berman, B., "Evaluation of acupuncture for pain control after oral surgery, a placebo controlled trial." Arch Otolaryngol Head and Neck Surg. 1999; 125:567-572.
5. Rosted P. "The use of acupuncture in dentistry: a review of the scientific validity of published papers." Oral Dis. 1998;4:100-4.

Teething

2009-06-26T09:15:00.000-04:00

By M. Cissy Majebe, L.Ac., & Karen Litton, L.Ac.

Cutting teeth is a rite of passage for all babies. The reaction to this experience varies from child to child. It can be an uncomfortable process for the child and the entire family.

Most cases of teething cause mild discomfort to the child, and some sleepless nights for the child and/or parents. In rare cases, a fever can develop that would require attention.

The channels that pass through the gums are related to the Stomach and Large Intestine Meridians in Chinese Medicine. Interestingly, many babies stop eating when they are getting close to teething -- a natural reaction to clear out the digestive system.

If a child has food stagnation in his stomach when teething starts, there will be more distress for the child when the teeth push through. The extra heat associated with the food stagnation in the stomach combines with the heat in the gums to create discomfort for the child during teething.

With teething, there can be an increase in the following symptoms: sore gums, drooling, wakefulness, irritability, mild temperature, diarrhea with foul-smelling stools, and sometimes a poor appetite just before and during teething.

In treatment, if there is heat, then the practitioner will bring down the heat and help clear the accumulation in the stomach. Acupuncture can also effectively reduce the heat and inflammation in the gums.

There are actions you as a parent can take at home to diminish your child’s discomfort. One of these is the stimulation of certain acupressure points, such as the following:

Large Intestine 4: located between the thumb and the first finger, on the mound created when you squeeze the thumb to the hand.
Stomach 40: located half way down the outer leg between the knee and ankle, about an inch off the shin bone.
Stomach 44: in the webbing between the second third toes.

These points can help take the heat out of the gums, Stomach, and Intestines, thus relieving the child’s discomfort.

There are also herbal formulas and essential oils that can ease the child’s teeth discomfort. One of these is lavender oil. For those sleepless nights, rubbing lavender oil on the child’s stomach can be soothing. In addition, the lavender oil can be rubbed on the above mentioned points or chest. Just this oil’s essence can bring relaxation.

There are also herbal pills, one of which is Suan Zao Ren, which can help with those children, or parents, having difficulty sleeping. Suan Zao Ren also comes as a powder or a tincture.

Partnering Western Medicine and Chinese Medicine

2009-06-24T18:34:00.000-04:00

By Joshua Herr, L.Ac.

In July 2008, the CAC had the privilege to participate in a medical continuing education seminar at MAHEC (Mountain Area Health Education Center). The seminar, “Partnering Western Medicine and CAM: An Evidence-Based Approach to Healing,” was eagerly attended by local physicians, nurses, and psychologists. David Trevino and I participated in a panel of presenters. The panel represented the CAM (Complimentary Alternative Medicine) modalities of acupuncture, meditation, Tai Chi, and Healing Touch. After the morning's lecture, break-out sessions provided participants with more in-depth information about the panelists' respective modalities.

I discussed how we should look at current acupuncture research and what type of research we should be looking for in the future. I emphasized the importance of looking at how an acupuncture study has been conducted, what points were chosen, and what the treatment environment was like. I expressed that when we come across a study that has negative findings for the effectiveness of acupuncture that we should not ask ourselves, “Does acupuncture work?” but instead, “What different points could have been chosen for the study?” or “What different clinical environment would have been more appropriate?” The research on acupuncture’s effect in treating pain in animals is enough to demonstrate that it is more than just a placebo.

David shared some compelling research studies that have been done on acupuncture and the treatment of fibromyalgia, infertility, and osteo-arthritic knee pain. The study with the largest sample size was one on the treatment of arthritic knee pain lead by Dr. Berman at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. The study contained some of the models we should be looking for in current acupuncture research, comparing a control group, a true acupuncture group, and a placebo acupuncture group. Each group received standard care in addition to being put in one of the acupuncture or control groups. The outcome demonstrated that integrating acupuncture therapy is more effective then standard care alone. We hope to see more studies that compare acupuncture in addition to standard care, as well as acupuncture compared to standard care alone. This type of comparative analysis gives both healthcare consumers and providers better resources for making decisions.

A study that we hope to see in the near future is a comparative analysis of infertility treatments, including in vitro fertilization, versus one year of acupuncture and herbal medicine therapy. Of course, we would like to see the pregnancy rate compared in this study, but there is much more to look at. The cost of the two therapies should be compared, as well as the side effects and the end of treatment quality of life. We believe that it is studies conducting this type of analysis that will help move acupuncture out of the realm of “alternative” treatments and into the realm of standard care.

There is a steady movement of acupuncture into the mainstream of our health care system. We are honored to be a part of that movement by participating in educational seminars. We are also excited about the development of a CAM research study that is currently being designed at MAHEC looking at the effect of CAM treatment on post-chemotherapy fatigue. We have been invited to participate in the design of this project and to give our experienced perspective on the use of Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture for the treatment of post-chemotherapy fatigue.

We have been invited back again this year, and we are looking forward to participating in this meaningful collaboration.

Tennis Elbow, Golfer's Elbow & Acupuncture's Relief

2009-06-22T12:26:00.000-04:00

By David Trevino, L.Ac.

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) are common terms used to describe elbow pain due to repetitive overuse of the elbow's extensor and flexor muscles. The name for these injuries originated as they appeared in a high proportion of tennis and golf players.

Today, tennis elbow is also referred to as carpenter's elbow, electrical line epicondylitis, and painter's elbow commonly seen in people who create repetitive movements with their arms in a work setting.

Similarly, golfer's elbow is caused from the overuse of the muscles, which pull the palm of the hand towards the arm eventually injuring the flexor muscles along the inner aspect of the elbow. Activities such as hammering, screw driver use, prolonged hand shaking and computer work contribute to this painful syndrome.

Western medicine views both lateral and medial epicondyle pain to be difficult to treat as the initial repetitive micro-trauma is easily aggravated. The common conventional allopathic treatments for this condition are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid injections and surgery.

Alternative methods of treatment such as acupuncture have shown significant results in the treatment of elbow pain.

Within the last 20 years several studies have found acupuncture to be more effective in the treatment of elbow pain compared to western medical interventions (Gellman, H. 1996). For example, in the journal, Pain (1983) 21 out of 34 patients who were treated with acupuncture had significant resolution or became completely free of pain. Many of these patients had been given one or more steroid injections previously without improvement. In fact, of the 26 patients in the control group who received steroid injections only 8 reported improvement.

More recent studies confirm acupuncture as an effective therapy for elbow pain and as an excellent alternative to steroid injections. Deighnan (2001) found that 86% of the patients treated for tennis elbow pain with acupuncture had complete resolution or improvement of symptoms. Studies published in 1994 and 2004 in Journal of Rheumatology noted acupuncture to be a, "statistically significant analgesic clinical treatment for elbow pain compared to the placebo acupuncture group."

In summary, western medicine has been interested in acquiring empirical data concerning the efficacy of acupuncture on modern types of injures such as tennis and golfer's elbow pain. Numerous studies confirm acupuncture's effectiveness for these conditions and have found this ancient treatment to be more effective than steroid injections without creating any side effects or worsen the condition of any patient. Acupuncture is definitely well worth trying for this disabling complaint.

General Symptoms of Lateral & Medial Epicondilytis:
· Difficulty holding onto objects
· Difficulty pinching or gripping objects
· Elbow pain & stiffness
· Weakness of wrist of affected elbow
· Minimal elbow movement
· Forearm tightness
· Tenderness on the lateral or medial side of the elbow

References:
1. Rheumatology, 2004, 43(9):1085-1090; doi:10.1093
2. A. Molsberger and E. Hille, Rheumatology, 1996, Vol 33, Number 12, pp. 1162-1165.
3.Brattberg, G., Pain, 1983, Jul. 16(3) 285-8.
4. Deighnan, C., Medical Acupuncture, 2001, Acupuncture for the treatment of lateral epicondylitis in a occupational medicine clinic." Vol 13 (1), pp. 21-22.

Your Children: Their Burns, Bruises & “Owees”

2009-06-19T08:14:00.000-04:00

By Junie Norfleet, L.Ac.

The weather warmer, and the children being outside more, brings sunburns, insect bites, scrapes, and bruises.

For the prevention of sunburn, we suggest that you follow the suggestions of Dr. Michael Holick, a vitamin D researcher, who suggests that you determine how long it takes for your skin to turn pink and then spend only ¼ of that time outdoors without protection.

If you stay out longer, apply sunscreen and/or add additional clothing to protect the body. Repeat this several times a week, exposing at least 50% of your body each time. This allows your body to get adequate Vitamin D without being "burned" by the sun.

We suggest you check the website: www.cosmeticdatabase.com to investigate safe sunscreen lotions. The first two listed that best meet the study's criteria for safe, low hazard products are:

California Baby SPF 30+Sun block Stick No Fragrance
Badger SPF 30 Sunscreen

If there is sunburn, the symptoms are:

First degree burn - pink skin, some pain, minimal peeling;
Second degree burn - significant redness of the skin; in some instances blisters with clear, watery fluid; extreme pain lasting several days; significant peeling;
More severe burns - chills, fever, nausea, vomiting, mild dehydration.

In some instances heat stroke can occur with rapid onset symptoms of fever greater than 104 degrees Fahrenheit, hot skin, confusion and loss of consciousness. Heat exhaustion symptoms are slower in onset and include cold and clammy skin, extreme sweating but no fever. Heat stroke and/or exhaustion occur due to dehydration, so be sure to stay hydrated.

If there are parts of the body that get missed and therefore "burned," the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic carries a burn cream that is excellent to help soothe the burned skin, whether the burn is from the sun or from a stove or campfire. It helps to cool the heat sensation as well as heal the area.

For insect bites, a blend of essential oils including Basil and Cedarwood is available to help reduce the irritation, itching, and pain. If you decide to create a blend for yourself, please be cautious with Basil for prepubescent children and pregnant women, as Basil can exhaust yang qi. To protect yourself and your children from insect bites, diffuse White Camphor oil in the area as an insect repellant, or use a hydrosol of Citronella, Cedarwood, Peppermint, and Geranium.

For scrapes, we suggest that you wash the area thoroughly with soap and water. Soaps with essential oils are good to use since all essential oils are antimicrobial. If the scrape is in an area that is going to be hard to heal due to bending of a joint or body part, we suggest using Zi Cao ointment to keep the area soft and pliable while it heals.

For more serious injuries with unbroken skin, we suggest Dit Da tincture. For sprains and strains, we suggest massaging Dit Da on the injured area several times daily. This tincture is wonderful to move stagnant blood and qi and to help the area to heal. The alcohol base causes it to be best for injuries without broken skin.

We at the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic want you and your children to have safe and happy outdoor time. We encourage you to supply your "first aid kits" with some of the above mentioned items to help ensure good health.

Huff Puff Qi Gong

2009-06-15T13:06:00.000-04:00

By Blake Crownover, L.Ac.

The Huff Puff Qi Gong DVD instructed by Jeffrey Yuen is available at no charge to the community at the Chinese Acupuncture and Herbology Clinic.

Huff Puff Qi Gong is one of the easiest forms of Qi Gong for a person to learn. Though the exercises are simple they can have a strong dynamic affect on the body.

One can use the exercises to treat anything from jet lag and hypertension to cancer and chronic degenerative diseases.

In China, there have been multiple cases where those who have practiced Huff Puff Qi Gong to treat chronic degenerative diseases have succeeded through regular practice in curing their illness.

When beginning the Huff Puff Qi Gong practice, it is important to consider three main aspects:

1) Breathing
2) Posture
3) Intention

Breathing

Huff Puff Qi Gong is a form of Qi Gong that focuses particularly on one's breathing technique. Therefore, the diaphragm is a particular focus for these exercises. Contracting the diaphragm (raising one's trunk) with several inhales through one's nose makes a sound like Huff, and dilating the diaphragm (lowering one's trunk) with one's exhale through one's mouth makes a sound like Puff.

In Huff Puff Qi Gong, it is fundamentally important that the inhale Huff is a few short, quick, yet strong breaths in comparison to the exhale Puff which should be one, long, quick, yet strong breath. This breathing strategy enables the practitioner of Huff Puff Qi Gong, to increase the amount of carbon dioxide exhaled, enhancing one's detoxification.

Posture

Huff Puff is a form of walking Qi Gong that begins focus on posture by aligning one's body into a particular structure. Structure/posture in Qi Gong is important because it provides an ideal opportunity for the individual to gain awareness of Qi by following a few principles in which the body is more open, receptive and relaxed.

The posture begins by first standing with feet shoulder width apart and then grounding oneself in this posture by dropping one's tailbone. To support this grounding, it is good to place one's intention on KI 1, otherwise known as Bubbling Spring, at the center of the sole of one's foot, and further imagining his/her toes are like roots growing into the ground.

Next, it is important to create a counter balance for this by lifting up at the top of one's head at Du 20, otherwise known as Bai Wei. This lifting and grounding counterbalance creates an environment in which the tension builds at one's center, also known as the abdominal/trunk region.

With the combination of one's tension and breath, the body creates a pumping action that increases circulation at one's center, nourishing his/her viscera/internal organs. This helps cleanse the body of any illnesses that may be present there.

The next important aspect of posture is to place one's thumbs in his/her navel, therefore forming a triangle with his/her hands over one's lower belly. Also known as the lower dante en/elixir field, this elixir field is known in many traditions to be essential for promoting long life when over time one nurtures and stores his/her energy there.

Intention

Holding in your mind your personal goals for health makes this exercise as much a meditation, as it is a physical movement.

To receive your FREE Huff Puff Qi Gong DVD, email: contact@ashevilleacupuncture.com.

Self-Cultivation: Holding Your Heart in Your Hand

2009-06-12T09:13:00.000-04:00

By Junie Norfleet, L.Ac.

Sit or lie quietly with your eyes closed. Take several deep breaths into your lower abdomen, letting each one out slowly. Place one of your hands over your heart. Let it rest there lightly. As it rests over your heart, spend time scanning the body from the head to the feet, front to back, in gratitude for your skin and all that it does to protect you.

Move your attention back to your hand. Imagine that the little finger and ring finger move slowly and gently into the body in a cupping motion. Again, scan the body from the head to the feet, front to back, in gratitude for the muscles, ligaments, and tendons and all that they do to help the body move gracefully, and to help you as you move through life.

Bring your attention back to your hand. Imagine that the middle finger moves into the body to join the other two fingers in the cupping motion. Scan the body from head to feet, front to back, being grateful for the skeleton and all that it does to help support and move your body, and to the system of blood vessels that helps to oxygenate the body and to keep you alive and well.

Move your attention back to your hand. Imagine the ring finger joining the others in the cupping motion around the heart. At this time, the image should be that the fingers are cupped against the back wall of the heart. As you scan the body this time, be grateful to each of the organ systems in the body and each of the special things they do to help you maintain good health.

As your attention goes back to your hand, imagine the little finger as it moves into the body, creating a picture of the heart sitting in the palm of your hand. With the heart sitting in the palm of your hand, appreciate the core of who you are – all of the natural kindnesses that you perform, the loving presence you are to those around you, the joy that you bring to yourself and others, and most of all, the special niche that you offer to the oneness of all things.

Smile at your heart and begin to imagine gently and slowly removing your fingers from around your heart. Let your hand come to rest in your lap. Take several deep breaths into the lower body, with the focus on the bottoms of the feet. When you are ready, slowly open your eyes.

This exercise can be done alone, or you can work with a partner. When working with a partner, your hand holds the heart of your partner, while their hand holds your heart. One of you would lead the guided meditation by talking you both through the different steps. It is very important not to rush through this exercise, so that you have time to truly appreciate the wonderful being that you are.

Medicinal Herbs in Your Backyard

2009-06-08T09:06:00.000-04:00

By Rachel Nowakowski, L.Ac.

Some people think of Chinese herbs as exotic plants grown only in faraway Asia. But many of the plants used in Chinese Herbal Medicine can easily be grown in Western North Carolina, because the climate is so similar to parts of China.

Many common medicinal plants are as beautiful as they are useful. Examples include Balloon flower (Platycodon), Peony, Buddleia (butterfly bush), and Forsythia.

Balloon flower root (Jie Geng) is traditionally used in prescriptions for lung afflictions including cough, excessive phlegm, and sore throat. We use Peony root (Bai Shao Yao/Chi Shao Yao) to move and nourish blood to treat conditions like skin rashes and menstrual disorders. Buddleia flower (Mi Meng Hua) is helpful for eye conditions including red, painful eyes, excessive tearing, and light sensitivity. Forsythia seed capsule (Lian Qiao) is used to treat heat conditions especially fevers, and swollen lymph nodes.

Of course, some medicinal plants are not as pleasing to have in our yards and gardens. Honeysuckle, dandelion, and kudzu can cause gardeners much misery, but even the most annoying plants have their purposes.

Honeysuckle flowers (Jin Yin Hua) are used to clear heat for fever and infections and is commonly used with Forsythia (Lian Qiao) in cold/flu formulas like Yin Qiao Jie Du Pian. The Honeysuckle leaf and vine (Ren Dong Teng) is used for arthritic joint pain. Dandelion (Pu Gong Yin) is another heat and toxin clearing herb that is used to treat eye conditions and mastitis. Kudzu root (Ge Gen) is an excellent herb for headaches and upper body pain, thirst caused by fever, and diarrhea. The kudzu flowers (Ge Gen Hua) can reduce alcohol cravings and minimize hangovers.

So the next time you are admiring your garden ornamentals or pulling out the weeds, remember their healing energies. When we think of the countless patients helped by these plants over thousands of years of use in Chinese Herbal Medicine, these herbs can be appreciated even more.

Spring Herbal Garden Tea

1 cup lemon balm leaves
1 cup mint leaves
4 tablespoons orange peel – grated

Mix the herbs and store in a glass jar.
For each cup of tea, steep 1 tablespoon of herbal tea mixture in boiling water.

There are a number of varieties of each plant, not all of them are used medicinally. Some medicinal plants need to be processed to reduce toxicity and give them their individual energetics. As with any herbal substance, it is best to consult your practitioner.

Cleansing With Chinese Medicine

2009-06-03T11:46:00.000-04:00

By Eric Aufdencamp, D.O.M., L.Ac.

Most traditions and cultures around the world employ some type of cleansing regimen for the body and spirit. Some people fast from all solid foods, while others eliminate all animal products. The duration varies greatly depending on the tradition. It may be as little as one day, or up to several weeks.

In Chinese Medicine, we use theory to advise our patients about cleansing protocols, adapted to their particular constitutional weaknesses or strengths.

Chinese Medicine theory believes good health is nurtured by respecting the cycles of nature. For example, the sun is at its peak mid-day and therefore, our digestive ‘heat’ is at its strongest during this time. That is why it is best to eat heavier meals around noon and lighter ones in the evening.

The change of seasons, especially winter to spring and late summer to fall, are ideal times to implement cleansing routines. Your body is more susceptible to illness during these times, so cleansing is an excellent method of prevention.

The therapeutic properties of food and herbs are determined by their flavor. It is ideal to include all of the different flavors in your diet.

Bitter, for example clears heat, inflammation and dries excess pathological moisture. Sweet strengthens the digestive system.
Sweet flavors, as used in Chinese Medicine, refer to the sweetness of grains, vegetables and legumes.
Sour is astringent and stops the leakage of body fluids.
Pungent flavors disperse and induce sweating.
Salty flavors soften hardness.

These flavors can be incorporated into your diet to balance imbalances, while any flavor used excessively or inappropriately, may create an imbalance.

Dampness in Chinese Medicine refers to an accumulation of moisture in the body and has both external and internal causes. Dampness can manifest in many different ways: yeast infections, nasal congestion, chest congestion, and skin conditions with discharge.

Foods that create dampness include: alcohol, peanuts, concentrated sweeteners and juices, tropical fruits, and wheat and dairy products. Reducing or eliminating these, will reduce the possibility that you will experience damp conditions.

As practitioners, we use these guidelines to determine a tailor-made cleansing regimen for each individual patient, which is based on their specific personal constitution:

Weak, cold, thin, nervous constitutions with dry skin and hair should limit their intake of bitter flavors.
Overweight people who have a sluggish digestive system or any signs of excess phlegm (chronic nasal congestion, yeast infections, etc.) should limit the intake of sweet foods. Sweet is a beneficial flavor for thin, fatigued, easily startled, and nervous constitutions.
Sour astringes and binds so use it cautiously if you are constipated. If you have acute or chronic pain, it may create more tightness in the muscles, ligaments and tendons.
Pungent flavors should be used sparingly in dry, nervous, weak, and thin people. Warming pungent flavors (garlic, cloves, hot peppers) should be avoided with any heat signs or inflammation. People that are dull, lethargic or overweight can benefit from this flavor the most.
Salty flavors are good for thin, dry, nervous people. Overweight, lethargic people and those with edema (fluid accumulation) should limit their intake of this flavor, which includes seaweeds, barley and millet.

For best results, consult your practitioner so they can customize a protocol for your constitutional needs.

Here is a general cleansing regimen:

Eat only organic fruits and vegetables preferably locally grown and organic whole grains like brown rice, millet, and quinoa. You can also eat sprouted grain bread. Only use cold pressed oils such as olive oil and flax seed oil.

Foods that are restricted:
Sugar, coffee, tea (caffeinated), white flour, refined foods, fried foods, alcohol, soy products, animal products, drugs, peanuts and peanut oil

Foods that aid detoxification:
Beets, artichokes, onions, garlic, leeks, shallots, mustard greens, beet greens, collard, kale, chard, sprouts, romaine lettuce, sea vegetables, daikon radish, turnips, figs, apples

Signs and Symptoms of detoxification:
Headaches, fatigue, dizziness, “withdrawal” symptoms, emotional processing, rash, runny nose, generalized body aches, “foggy” head.

References: Pitchford, Paul, Healing With Whole Foods: Oriental Traditions and Modern Nutrition, pp. 270-276.

The Season For Local Farmers Markets Is Here!

2009-06-01T11:17:00.000-04:00

By Joshua Herr, L.Ac.

Asheville's area farmers' markets are in full swing. Now's the time to take advantage of them, and their increasingly abundant fresh produce. My favorite market to go to is on the UNCA campus. It is called the North Asheville Tail Gate Market.

Reading In Defense of Food: An Eater’s Manifesto by Michael Pollan illustrates to me the importance of the foods I choose to eat and where they come from. Michael Pollan suggests we should: “Eat Food, Not Too Much, Mostly Plants” as the answer to the question of what we should eat in order to be maximally healthy.

In our modern time and culture, we have more food choices and diet recommendations then ever before. Many of our modern food choices are industrialized, processed foods with the latest nutritional trend plastered on the cover of the box to persuade us that their product would be the best choice for achieving maximal health.

For example, Kellogg’s Fruit Loops Smoothie boasts itself as a good source of calcium. However, this highly industrialized food contains so much processing, and the end product contains such highly refined grains, food coloring and preservatives, any nutrients that have been added during processing are outweighed by the ill effects of this processing. Can we really call this food or is this imitation food?

As a parent, I am distressed by how many processed food products target children and their parents for the fun and convenience of them.

Michael Pollan suggests these guidelines for defining a product as food versus imitation food:

1. Don’t eat anything your great grandmother wouldn’t recognize.

2. Avoid food products containing ingredients that are a) unfamiliar, b) unpronounceable, c) more than five in number, or that include d) high-fructose corn syrup.

3. Avoid food products that make health claims.

4. Shop the peripheries of the supermarket and stay out of the middle. (Produce, meat, fish and dairy line the walls of most grocery stores, while the more processed foods are found in the center.)

5. Get out of the supermarket whenever possible. (This is where the farmer’s market, gardening and wild-crafting come into play.)

This season visit your local farmers' markets weekly. You will be supporting your local economy and making the best food choice possible: real food.

Shopping at the farmers' market also provides us with a needed diversity of food in our diet. The foods that are available at the market will change with the seasons, and the abundance of products that are harvested by the farmer during the growing season typically makes the farmers' market prices cheaper than the supermarket.

Click here for a list farmer’s markets in our area.

I hope to see you there!

Massage: The Solution For Your Low Back Pain

2009-05-29T13:47:00.000-04:00

By Craig Hargett, LMBT #8737

Low back pain is one of the most common results of becoming more active in the warm weather. Left untreated, it can cause other muscular problems in the body. As we attempt to find relief from our back pain, we can recruit and strain secondary muscles, thereby creating new aches and pains.

How can we break the cycle? Massage.

Massage is especially effective for low back pain, because it

increases the circulation of blood and Qi,
releases endorphins, which are our bodies' natural pain killers, and
relaxes muscle tension at specific motor and acupressure points.

Trigger Point Therapy is a Western technique that correlates to accupressure points on the body. Trigger Points are specific areas, where highly sensitive nerves innervate muscle tissue. Because of their increased sensitivity, these nerves are prone to overstimulation.

The result: a pain-spasm-pain cycle.

Making a massage appointment is ideal at the first sign of low back pain, before it gets any worse. In the meantime, you can try self-massage on a few Trigger Points.

Two Trigger Points for the low back, which are also acupressure points, include Urinary Bladder 23 and Urinary Bladder 52. To locate these points:

Place your hands just above your hipbones, while cupping the palms of your hands around your waist, with your thumbs pointing up your back.
Where your thumbs press into your back, you will feel your paraspinal muscles, which run along the spine.
Urinary Bladder 52 is located at the outer edge of the paraspinal muscle.
Urinary Bladder 23 is found in the belly of this muscle, about midway from Urinary Bladder 52 to the spine.
To massage, push with even pressure into each of these points while breathing deeply as you notice the muscles begin to relax.

From all of us at CAC, we wish you a pain-free and active season enjoying the warm weather!

CAC Special Massage Price: $45/hour
Saturday: 10 am - 2 pm
Call to Schedule Your Appointment: 258-9016
Chinese Acupuncture Clinic, 369 Montford Avenue, Asheville

HR 646 Federal Acupuncture Coverage Act

2009-05-16T11:11:00.000-04:00

Earlier this week, we sent out an email to all of you on our e-mailing list, asking you to write a letter to your representative in the US Congress.

The GOAL: to help pass a bill to ensure that acupuncture services will be covered by Medicare and for federal employees.

THANK YOU to all of you who took the time to do so.

Congress is scheduled to vote on the bill in its current session. If you want to keep current on what happens, here is a link:

Latest Update on HR 646 Federal Acupuncture Act

Also, if you would like to be added to our mailing list, please send us an email at: contact@ashevilleacupuncture.com.

Welcome to the New Blog of the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic

2009-05-08T14:19:00.000-04:00

Founded in 1985, the Chinese Acupuncture Clinic is the oldest and largest Chinese medical and herbology clinic serving the Southeast.

With eight licensed practitioners and offices in three locations, including Asheville, Waynesville and Hendersonville, we are pleased to provide experienced and collaborative care for the entire family, from children to senior citizens.

We look forward to providing you with regular and up-to-date news items in this blog.

While our blog is under construction, we invite you to visit our website: www.ashevilleacupuncture.com.

Thank you for visiting. Please check back again soon. And be well!