Herbal Treatment | The American Journal Of Chinese Medicine

The Basic Theory Of Chinese Medicine

admin Posted in Chinese Herbal Medicine, Herbal Treatment，Tags: Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, Alternative, Energy, Health, Liver, Stomach, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yin-Yang

27 August 2010

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The theory of Chinese medicine revolves around the philosophical concept of Yin and Yang. Yin and Yang is a long held Chinese idea of living in harmony with nature and having opposing balance, even going so far as to correspond with the four seasons and the 24 hour cycle of 4 time zones throughout the day – sunrise, noon, sunset, and evening. Everything in the universe is divided into two parts, the Yin and Yang: darkness versus light, feminine versus masculine, rest versus activity, north versus south, and right versus left, cold versus hot.
However, when it comes to Chinese medicine specifically, in terms of physiological functions, Yin and Yang can be split into form versus energy, contraction versus expansion, below versus above, and growing versus generating. This definition of Yin and Yang is very important in Chinese medicine, because it can help a skilled practitioner determine where an imbalance of chi – or, a persons life force - is, and how such an imbalance of chi can be fixed. For example, Chinese medicine teaches that Yin places of the body consist of the front of the body as well as the inner and solid organs like the liver and kidney, while Yang places of the body consist of the back of the body as well as the exterior and hollow organs like the stomach or intestine. If one were to have stomach cramps, for example, that would be an imbalance of Yang – thus, Chinese medicine dictates that it can be balanced out by treatment of giving a person more Yin by making a traditional herbal prescription. In a more simplified example of Chinese medicine at work, if a person is cold – a Yin sign – then such an ailment can be cured with heat – a Yang sign. However, because there are so many aspects of Yin and Yang in Chinese medicine, it takes a professional to help determine how to keep ones body balanced properly if there is an imbalance within.

The Emotions Behind Chinese Medicine

admin Posted in Chinese Herbal Medicine, Herbal Treatment，Tags: Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, Alternative, Health, Heart, Liver, Lung, Spleen, Traditional Chinese Medicine

26 August 2010

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Chinese medicine is a philosophy based off of how the human body works as a universe in itself. The basic concept of Chinese medicine consists of balance within the body and its interconnected systems, focusing on the flow of body fluids – chi. The internal and external philosophy is one based on how internal emotions can lead to an imbalance of chi, causing external symptoms to manifest and point out certain illnesses occurring within the body.
This idea in Chinese medicine believes the development of disease is based on emotional disturbance. Sorrow generally reduces chi, and affects the lungs by causing asthmatic symptoms like irregular breathing, as the lungs control respiratory reactions. Fear represses chi and effects the kidneys, and such imbalance can lead to anything from urinary problems to poor short-term memory, as the kidneys effect the bladder and are a key part in telling the body to distribute oxygen to the brain. Anger stimulates chi and affects the liver, an imbalance that causes irritability and headaches, as the liver produces the biochemical’s that help process food and nutrients. Brooding affects chi of the spleen by congealing it, causing digestive issues. Joy calms chi and affects the heart; and though joy may not seem like an emotion that would hinder the body with negative effects, Chinese medicine deems that too much of a good thing can lead to excess stress and an inability to stay restful.
These are the seven key emotions in Chinese medicine. Having an imbalance of emotions – anything from too much emotion to too little emotion – can cause negative effects on one’s chi, disrupting the body and causing disease or illness. Luckily, by understanding the symptoms listed, a skilled practitioner in Chinese medicine can figure out which part of the body is being affected by an imbalance of chi, and easily help rebalance the body.

Some Infertile Couples Seek Alternative Treatments

admin Posted in Chinese Herbal Medicine, General, Herbal Treatment，Tags: Alternative medicine, Clinics and Services, Health, In vitro fertilisation, Infertility, Medicine, Pregnancy, Reproductive Health

25 August 2010

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For many people, it’s hard to imagine the pain that couples face when they’re dealing with infertility. Well-meaning family members and friends try to console them, if they’re aware of the problem. Infertility is a topic that’s somewhat taboo, reserved for hushed conversations with close friends. Ultimately, couples are left alone to deal with the monthly heartbreak of yet another negative pregnancy test.

Typically, it takes six months to a year of unsuccessful attempts to get pregnant before a physician recommends that a couple undergo diagnostic tests. Fertility experts seem to agree that 40 percent of the time, the man has a medical issue that’s preventing pregnancy and 40 percent of the time, it’s the woman’s health problem. The remaining 20 percent of cases involve fertility concerns for both the man and woman. Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that more than seven million (nearly 12 percent) of women between the ages of 15 and 44 experience infertility.

There are a variety of medical procedures available to couples. Doctors may prescribe ovulation-enhancing drugs like Clomid or offer outpatient procedures like in utero insemination. More involved treatments like in vitro fertilization require multiple visits to the doctor, thousands of dollars in medication, and minor surgical procedures. Except in states where it’s illegal to do so, many insurance companies exclude fertility treatments and related prescriptions from coverage, leaving couples to bear the high costs themselves.

Before undertaking expensive procedures to get pregnant, many couples explore alternative treatments like acupuncture. Practitioners strategically place very thin needles into the patient’s body. This technique for bringing the body into balance has gained wide acceptance and popularity when it comes to treating infertility. In fact, many physicians who do in vitro fertilization strongly recommend that their patients get acupuncture treatments to compliment the procedure. Some infertile couples turn to naturopathy for help, a process that involves increased exercise, better nutrition, and improved emotional health. Massage is another popular treatment that can help some infertile couples. Alternative medicine can be an affordable source of healing and help for couples having problems getting pregnant.

Chinese Medicine: Basis and Primary Therapies

admin Posted in Chinese Herbal Medicine, Herbal Treatment，Tags: Acupuncture, Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, Alternative, Alternative medicine, Health, Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, United States

24 August 2010

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The doctrine of century’s old, ancient wisdom held the belief that the body was made of energy, with nerves transmitting electrical currents throughout the spine and brain. From this frame of reference, Chinese doctors formed a distinctive medical system called Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM, that diagnoses and cure illnesses.

At its core, TCM differs from traditional Western medicine in that it stems from a holistic interpretation of the world, as detailed in Daoism, with treatments based mainly on different syndromes—or misconstrued energies. So, while a Western doctor may treat an ailment with pain pills or surgery, Chinese doctors would prescribe something like Tai Chi in order to lessen the occurrence of the ailment by redirecting, or realigning, energy flows, thereby getting rid of the syndrome.

In essence, scientific diagnoses and subsequent treatments in the field of Traditional Chinese Medicine are largely based on the theories known as the yin-yang and five elements. These theories relate natural marvels and the rules of nature to the teachings of physiological behaviors and pathological changes of the body, and its relationships that interrelate and continually interact.
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The most common therapies employed by TCM doctors are herbal medicine treatments, acupuncture, and exercises known as qigong. Commonly, these treatments are used together and compliment each other, working to aid different parts of the body in unique ways. Herbal medicine targets the internal organs and nourishes them, while qigong aims to restore an orderly flow of information inside the nervous system. Acupuncture is beneficial in that is stimulates specific areas of the outer body, easing tension and restoring calmness.

While these treatments are very different in how they are performed and what they do, they all have the same principal objective to heal the body and share insight into the nature of the body and how it interacts within the flow the energy of the universe.

Given the term ‘alternative medicine,’ TCM is becoming more popular in the United States and is practiced by millions, gaining acceptance, recognition, and a place within Western medicine.

Chinese Medicine and Herbal Blends

admin Posted in Chinese Herbal Medicine, Herbal Treatment，Tags: Alternative, Chemotherapy, Health, Herbalism, Herbs, Immune system, Japanese language, Shopping

22 August 2010

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Ancient Japanese remedies harboring the wisdom of ages have merged with modern technology to develop unique supplements that feature herbs used for centuries to promote health and well being. Rooted in sacred philosophy, and revered for their healing powers, the three herbs listed below provide nutrition, increase immunity, give total body cleansing and inspire invigoration and the cultivation of happiness and tranquility.

Eleuthero Root

Known as an "adaptogen," an extraordinary element offering a broad range of health benefits, the Eleuthero Root reduces the effects of stress on the body in a multitude of ways. Providing improvement in memory, increased endurance, and defense against radiological activity, the Eleuthero Root stimulates immune function and aids the body in total health.

Believed by scientists to help prevent "adrenal burnout" caused by ongoing physical or mental challenges, it also acts as an anti-inflammatory that decreases cortisol levels. In addition, it contains amazing chemoprotective qualities that protect healthy tissues from the toxic effects of anticancer drugs.

Albizzia Bark

Used worldwide by scientists and researchers alike, bark from the Albizzia plant is a soothing agent and herbal remedy used to alleviate emotional aliments and decrease stress. Known as "the herb of happiness," Albizzia Bark possesses natural ingredients that refresh the mind, calm the spirit, and restore a sense of tranquility and peace.

Dating back hundreds of years, and part of ancient traditions that celebrated the bark’s de-stressing abilities, Albizzia Bark is completely non-chemical and has been shown by researchers to contain antioxidants that encourage emotional well being.

Dimocarpus Longan

Used for centuries to nurture the health of the heart, this super-fruit revitalizes the blood, invigorates the spleen, and adds vibrant luster to the skin. A staple of the earliest holistic remedies known to man, Longan also treats stomach aches, insomnia, and has even been shown to help cure amnesia.

An essential energy-providing element, Longan enhances mood to invite a contented, happy mind, and supplies the body with stamina against physical strain and mental stress. Supporting the immune system and calming the nervous system, Longan truly does it all.

Alternative Medicinal Treatments: Reishi Mushrooms and Lycium Berry

admin Posted in Chinese Herbal Medicine, Herbal Treatment，Tags: Alternative medicine, Cancer, Essential amino acid, Health, Heart disease, Immune system, Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine

20 August 2010

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If you are seeking alternative health treatments and have an interest in Chinese medicine, consider the Reishi Mushroom and Lycium Berry, both of which contain incredible health benefits and invite tranquility, boost your body’s natural immunities, and harvest health and harmony.

Reishi Mushroom

Few things on this earth are as powerful and advantageous to your health as Reishi Mushrooms. Providing four-fold benefits that contribute to physical health, hearten happiness, promote longevity, and increase wisdom, this rare mushroom has achieved legendary status with its medicinal properties.

Believed by Taoists to be the elixir of youth, emperors and kings alike drank Reishi Mushroom teas to encourage a long life and achieve vitality. Containing strong antioxidant properties, these mushrooms boost immunity and act as a natural anti-inflammatory to treat many ailments associated with inflammation and neuralgia.
Because of the therapeutic effects of triterpenes and polysaccharides in Reishi Mushrooms, they increase blood flow and are beneficial for people with heart disease, Alzheimer’s and chronic, degenerative diseases that stem from inflammation.
Remarkably, Reishi Mushrooms are even believed to suppress the growth of tumors and are commonly used in cancer prevention. Incredibly enough, this exceptional mushroom is found in only two or three 10,000 year old trees; however it is available at certain health food stores and online.

Lycium Berry

Hailed as one of the most nutritionally complex foods there is, the Lycium Berry (also known as Goji) contains polysaccharides that provide abundant benefits to the body, including helping to regulate the immune system, protect the liver and kidneys from age-related stress, and improve insulin resistance caused by diabetes.

Used in Asia as an anti-aging tonic, the Lycium Berry is filled with vitamins and minerals, packing more vitamin C than an orange and more beta-carotene than a carrot.

Containing nine essential amino acids, calcium, magnesium, numerous B vitamins and Vitamin E, this little berry is full of healthy punch and gives you all the nutrients you will need.

Using Chinese and Alternative Medicine After Alcohol Rehab

admin Posted in Chinese Herbal Medicine, Herbal Treatment，Tags: Alternative, Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine

01 August 2010

Trying to overcome the challenges of alcohol is not an easy feat. Those who are addicted to alcohol have a long battle to wage. With strength and perseverance, and a great alcohol rehab program, determined individuals can win the war against alcohol addiction.

Once you have stopped drinking, it’s time to start living a full life again. Many people use this opportunity to rethink their entire way of living. Often former alcoholics will avoid further pharmaceuticals, worried about risking a new addiction. That’s what makes the idea of Chinese/Alternative medicine so appealing.

The Chinese method of natural, homeopathic cures can help most ailments organically, without the introduction of synthetic man-made chemicals into the body. The science of this type of health medicine is ideal for people with addiction problems. Alternative medicine reduces contact with potential addictive substances altogether, greatly reducing the chance for incidence.

Chinese medicine typically incorporates many techniques which are used in conjunction with one another. This creates a unique synergy, a masterful system of preventative health care for pain and disease treatment. The various components that fall under the Chinese/Alternative medicine umbrella include: herbal medicine, acupuncture, dietary therapy and massage techniques to help stimulate corresponding organs and maintain proper functionality.

The principle idea behind Chinese medicine vary to some degree, depending on the exact school of thought they were formatted under. The origins of Chinese medicine stem back centuries to Taoism and Buddhism. Chinese medicine relies upon careful evaluation and observation of symptoms to diagnose medical issues. The American school of thought largely relies upon clinical laboratory tests and focuses only on the exact illness. Chinese medicine tends to look at the whole patient when working to diagnose versus concentrating on one particular symptom, organ or body system.

Sunburns Happen

admin Posted in Herbal Treatment，Tags: Aloe Vera, Health, Sunburn

30 July 2010

With sunshine comes the risk of sunburns. Whether due to deliberate neglect or accidental absent-mindedness, forgetting proper precautions can create a world of pain for the next few days. It’s common knowledge that you should apply sunscreen before heavy sun exposure, but sometimes burns still happen. If you do get sun-burnt, the most important thing is proper treatment. There are several simple home remedies and herbal solutions to ease your burns.

The most recognized herbal treatment for sunburns comes from Indian Aloe, or Aloe Vera. Gel pulled directly from the Aloe Vera plant works best. If you don’t have an Aloe Vera plant, over the counter creams with Aloe will suffice. As the Aloe Vera plant is made of nearly 100 percent water, its hydrating properties logically help soothe first to second degree burns.

Sandalwood is another herbal treatment that helps soothe sunburns. It has cooling properties and can actually act as a sunscreen. Vitamin E is another essential nutrient for your skin, and you can take it either by pill, or with a topical cream. You can wear these creams before you go outside and enjoy the weather. The properties like Aloe and sandalwood can help prevent burns as well as help you cope with them later.

With a sunburn, your skin is dehydrated. It is essential that no matter what cream or medication you decide to take, you drink lots of water. Your body needs as many fluids as possible after excessive skin exposure. Largely water-based foods, like fruits are great for hydration. Of course, the best way to beat sunburn is to avoid overexposure in the first place. Naturally, you can’t always avoid it, but staying conscious of the sun during the hot months can help. Wear preventative clothing like a hat or wear clothes that cover more skin areas when possible. Use sun block and stay hydrated. Prevention is the best medicine for sunburns.

Drug Addiction Recovery Programs

admin Posted in Drug Addiction Recovery, Herbal Treatment，Tags: Addiction, Drug addiction

21 June 2010

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The use of illicit and prescription drugs in an abusive and consistent manner can lead to a physical and psychological addiction that in most cases leads to negative effects on the user’s physiology and day-to-day life. Many drug abusers require a residential drug abuse program to help them kick their dependence on a particular substance, while others may need to be a part of a structured program for the rest of their lives.

There are numerous types of drug addiction recovery programs; deciding on the right one for a particular person depends on the type of drug they abuse. Some include the better known AA meetings that require addicts to attend regular meetings. Other programs require a more hands-on approach through the detoxifying process, and may need the addict to live in the treatment center until he or she gains the tools necessary to manage the addiction problem.

Drug addiction recovery programs are only as successful as the level of commitment by the patient and his or her family. The larger the support system formed around the patient, the easier the process becomes and the greater the chances of long term success. Recovery programs provide guidance to the patient and his family on how to break away from cycles and habits that prevent recovery. Many of the tools gained in these programs can be beneficial not only to the addict, but her family and friends as well. These programs teach coping mechanisms that are important in reducing daily stress and anxiety. Some programs also use replacement drugs that aid the addict through the detox process by lessening the physiological shock of reducing or stopping the use of a particular drug.

The type of recovery program chosen strongly depends on the type of drug the addict abused. This is because different drugs result in varying types of addiction responses by the body.

Foot Reflexology as a Non-Invasive Alternative

admin Posted in Health Food, Herbal Treatment, Patient's Testimony，Tags: Alternative, Alternative medicine, Health, Reflexology, United States

17 April 2010

Far beyond merely offering acupuncture, Chinese alternative medicine has long revolved around the concept that invasion of the body by large foreign objects, such as scalpels, was to be avoided. Foot reflexology is a great example of a non-invasive technique which produces results in those who experience the procedure.

Reflexology, which can be applied to any body part, but is especially concentrated on the sensitive nerve endings located in the soles of the feet and in the hands, is a science based on the idea that gentle pressure on reflex points can produce certain results. The result aimed for is to increase health and harmony by promoting health in the organs which correspond to the reflex point being worked by the practitioner. The idea is that energetic pathways flow through and connect all the various parts which comprise the human body.

This might sound akin to a magic act, yet it’s not as esoteric as it may seem. The human brain is a giant electrical device – electricity flows through the inner working of the brain, controlling everything from hunger to fine motor skills. By applying pressure in a skillful and knowledgeable way, a reflexologist may influence the signals sent between the brain and the body, causing a realignment of the electrical pattern. This realignment can create a new balance which is soothing and reduces both pain and stress.

If you’re considering trying a reflexology treatment, your experience will be somewhat similar to going to the spa for a massage. You’ll bare your feet, but nothing else, then sit on a comfortable chair or table. The reflexologist will examine your feet, then begin several techniques to achieve the harmonic balance desired. You should not feel pain, only firm pressure. At the end of the treatment, a sense of relaxation coming over you will indicate that this alternative to traditional medicine has achieved a balance formerly non-existent in your body. Remember to thank the reflexologist if you are happy with the treatment,

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