What is Chinese Herbology?
Depending on the condition of imbalance, a TCM practitioner may choose to treat a patient with herbs. Chinese herbal formulas are created from raw, dried herbs composed of plant, animal and mineral material. Chinese pharmacopeia consists of thousands of different herbs. A practitioner will combine between 3 and 20 different herbs into a tea, capsule or tincture formula that the patient can self-administer at home.

Herbal Consultations
Herbal medicine is one of the most essential modalities of Oriental medicine. Herbal consultations may be scheduled separately or in conjunction with an acupuncture treatment. An herbal studies student will work either privately with the patient or alongside an acupuncture intern to determine the proper herbal formula. High quality manufactured herbs in the form of teas, capsules and liniments are also available for purchase in our clinic.

What is Cupping, Guasha, Tui Na & Moxibustion?

Cupping
Cupping is a technique in which a glass cup is heated and applied to the surface of the skin. The heat reduces the pressure in the cup allowing the superficial musculature to be suctioned into the glass. The local congestion releases any stagnant energy and blood so fresh energy can come in and nourish the tissue. The cup can be held stationary or moved over a large region of the body such as the upper back.

Guasha
Guasha is a similar technique in which an instrument such as a spoon, coin or horn is used to brush the skin releasing stagnation. Oils are used to lubricate the skin prior to applying the technique. Commonly patients experience immediate relief of localized tension and stress.
A practitioner may use cupping and guasha for traumatic injury, pain, chronic respiratory conditions, gastro-intestinal disorders and a variety of other conditions. Though they may be used in by themselves, typically cupping and guasha are used in conjunction with acupuncture.

Tuina
Tuina is a form of medical Asian bodywork distinctive from western massage in that it focuses on promoting free flow energy in the acupuncture channels. Tuina is composed of a series of techniques designed to lubricate joints, relax muscles and promote energy flow. After careful assessment, a practitioner will chose and apply techniques to the affected region. Tui na is commonly used for the following disorders:
Muscle sprains, strains, spasms/adhesions, herniated disks, neck tension, scoliosis, carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis/golfer’s elbow, TMJ, sport injury, accident traumas.

Moxibustion
Moxibustion, or moxa, is a technique in which an herb, mugwart is heated above the skin to stimulate qi, blood and bring warmth to the area. Moxa can be place directly on an acupuncture needle or held over a region of the body to return balance. Moxa is used for a multitude of conditions such as digestive problems, chronic pain, immunodeficiency’s, fertility and menstrual disorders.