Herbal Medicine
Three Things to Know About Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine
Acupuncture and herbal medicine often go hand-in-hand. Herbal medicine is often used in conjunction with acupuncture, as appropriate, to support the body’s healing process. Just like a traditional medical prescription, herbs are prescribed by Oriental Medicine practitioners to address a variety of health concerns. They are often prescribed as formulas rather than specific individual herbs and are tailored to the needs of the patient. And just like traditional prescription medicine, herbs are adjusted as the patient’s needs change. Some Western hospitals are now utilizing Chinese herbs in their treatment protocols. For example, the Cleveland Clinic has a licensed and certified Chinese herbalist on staff. continue reading
Successful Herbs to Move Liver Qi
We often say in Traditional Chinese Medicine that the liver is the system most easily susceptible to stress. Stress knots the Qi (energy) and makes its flow stagnate – this happens most quickly in the liver energy system. The liver, in TCM, is in charge of the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body. This means that if Qi flow is impaired (ie, by stress), the liver system will suffer. Likewise, if the liver energy system is weak or stagnant (from lifestyle choices, diet, trauma, emotional stress, illness or genetic factors), Qi flow throughout the body may be impaired. continue reading
Fertility and the Phases of Menstruation
Fertility and the Phases of Menstruation
The menstrual cycle can be broken down into four phases: the menstrual phase, follicular phase, ovulation phase, and luteal phase. At AcuWell LLC, we commonly adjust our acupuncture protocol and Chinese herbal formula recommendations based on your current phase of menstruation.
Menstrual Phase: Day 1-Day 4
The treatment goal during the menstrual phase is to gently move and tonify qi and blood. If an obstruction to the flow of blood is present an herbal formula such as Tao Hong Si Wu Tang or Four Substance Formula with Safflower and Peach Pit can be used.
Follicular Phase: Day 5 to 2 days before ovulation
The treatment goal is to nourish blood and yin to prepare the body for ovulation, tonify the kidney, and prepare the uterus. This can be done with various acupuncture points on the body and can be assisted with Chinese herbal formulas such as Zuo Gui Wan or Restore the Left Kidney Pill.
Ovulation Phase: Day 1-2 days before ovulation
Ovulation can be confirmed with a rise in basal body temperature or an ovulation predictor test. The treatment goal here is to move qi and blood, strengthen kidney yang, and decrease stress levels. Fu Ke Zhong Zi Wan or Women’s seed planting pills may be used to warm the uterus, nourish kidney Jing essence, and promote ovulation.
Luteal Phase: Ovulation until the confirmation of pregnancy or menstruation
Here the treatment goal is to tonify qi and yang to keep progesterone levels high. It is also important to reduce stress levels at this time. You Gui Wan or Restore the Right Kidney Pill is often used during this phase to warm the uterus, strengthen kidney yang, and promote the smooth flow of liver qi.
Chinese herbal formulas should only be used under acupuncture supervision. Individual oriental medicine diagnosis must be performed in order to find the appropriate formula for you. If you are looking to boost fertility with acupuncture and Chinese herbal formulas, consider scheduling an appointment with AcuWell LLC in Naperville, IL.
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Boost It With Ginseng
Ginseng is said to resemble a human body in shape, and it has been used for years in Asia. Recently, it has become a popular item in Western culture. Many claims about this root have been advertised, such as its reputation for extending longevity and its use for stamina and endurance. Let’s look at the types of ginseng and the differences.
There are three main types of ginseng used: continue reading
Dandelion: Detox With This Yellow Charmer
Next time you’re in a wide open field, pasture or meadow dotted with beautiful yellow dandelions, know that these prolific little delights are not only beautiful, but packed with nutrition and offer a host of healthy benefits. Let’s explore this amazing flower. continue reading
