(This article is the second of a five-part series on alternative medicine.)
A
Acupuncture is a technique in which practitioners stimulate
specific points on the body, usually by inserting thin needles through the
skin. These points are believed to correspond to the flow of qi through
channels called meridians, which connect the organs and functions of the body.
By stimulating these points, acupuncture can regulate the flow of qi and
correct any imbalances that may cause disease or pain. Acupuncture can also
stimulate the release of the body’s natural painkillers and affect areas in the
brain involved in processing pain.
Studies suggest that acupuncture may help ease types of
pain that are often chronic, such as low-back pain, neck pain,
osteoarthritis/knee pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome. It may also help reduce
the frequency of tension headaches and prevent migraine headaches. Acupuncture
may also have benefits for other conditions, such as insomnia, anxiety,
depression, allergies, asthma, menstrual problems, infertility, and digestive
disorders.
Herbal Remedies
Herbal remedies are an important part of TCM and involve
the use of plants, minerals, animal products, or synthetic substances to treat
various health problems. TCM practitioners use herbal formulas that are
tailored to the individual’s condition, constitution, and environment. The
formulas may contain several ingredients that work together to achieve the
desired effect. Some of the common herbs used in TCM include ginseng, ginger,
licorice, cinnamon, astragalus, angelica, peony, and reishi. Herbal remedies may
have effects on the immune system, inflammation, hormones, blood circulation,
digestion, and metabolism.
Studies have shown that some herbal products may have
benefits for conditions such as stroke, heart disease, mental disorders,
respiratory diseases (such as bronchitis and the common cold), diabetes, liver
disease, kidney disease, cancer, and skin problems. Some herbal
products may also have side effects or interact with other medications or
supplements. Therefore, consulting with a qualified TCM practitioner before using any herbal remedies is important.
Dietary Advice
Dietary advice is another aspect of TCM that aims to
prevent or treat diseases by adjusting the intake of food and drinks according
to one’s individual needs and characteristics. TCM practitioners believe that
different foods have different properties (such as hot or cold, moist, or dry)
that can affect the balance of qi in the body. For example, eating too much
cold food may cause digestive problems or weaken the immune system. Eating too
much hot food may cause inflammation or irritability. Therefore, TCM
practitioners recommend eating foods that are suitable for one’s constitution
and season and avoiding foods that may aggravate one’s condition or symptoms.
In the summer when it is hot eating cucumbers or watermelons may help us to
cool down and, in the winter, when it is cold, eating foods like shrimp or beef
may warm up the body.
Cupping
Cupping is an age-old technique used in TCM to stimulate
acupuncture points or larger areas of the body. Cupping is often practiced
alongside acupuncture but can also be used as a treatment in its own right.
Cups are rounded and usually made of glass or plastic. The practitioner creates
a vacuum inside the cup and quickly places it onto the skin where treatment is
needed. The cup is left in place for anything up to 20 minutes. Several cups
are often used in one treatment.
Cupping works by drawing up the skin and the pores are opened
up, stimulating qi and blood flow. This allows the body to naturally balance
and realign and helps draw toxins out of the body. Cupping can be used for many
different treatments, but the most common conditions treated include:
Respiratory conditions such as common cold, flu, bronchitis,
and asthma
Arthritis
Gastrointestinal disorders
Stiff and/or painful neck, back, and shoulder muscles
Depression
Moxibustion
Moxibustion is an essential part of TCM that involves
burning a cone or stick of a ground substance (usually mugwort) near the skin
at acupuncture points. It promotes warmth, pain relief, or healing in an area. Moxibustion
can be applied directly on the skin or indirectly by holding the burning
substance above the skin or placing it on top of an acupuncture needle.
Moxibustion can also be done with a moxa roll, which is a cigar-shaped stick
that is lit and held near the skin.
Moxibustion works by warming and stimulating the acupuncture points and meridians, enhancing the flow of qi and blood. Moxibustion can also have effects on the immune system and inflammation. Moxibustion can be used for various conditions, such as:
Cold or damp conditions
Weakness or fatigue
Pain or stiffness
Digestive problems
Menstrual problems
Breech presentation in pregnancy
How to Find a Practitioner of TCM
If you are interested in trying any of the TCM approaches
mentioned above, you should look for a qualified and experienced practitioner
who has been trained and certified in TCM. You can ask your doctor for a
referral or search online for a reputable TCM association or organization that
can provide you with a list of practitioners in your area. You can also check
the credentials and reviews of the practitioners before making an appointment.
When you visit a TCM practitioner, you can expect to have a thorough consultation that involves asking about your medical history, symptoms, lifestyle, and emotions. The practitioner may also examine your tongue, pulse, and other physical signs. Based on the diagnosis, the practitioner will recommend a treatment plan that may include one or more of the TCM approaches discussed above. The treatment plan may also be adjusted according to your progress and feedback.
Any information on conditions, illnesses, diseases, remedies, and treatments available via this blog is intended for general guidance only and must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by your doctor or other qualified healthcare professionals.
