About Traditional Chinese Medicine

What Is Traditional Chinese Medicine ?

What Is The Theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine?

What Is The Concept Of Yin & Yang / Five Elements / Chi (Qi)?

What Happen During Your First Visit With A TCM Doctor ?

What Common Techniques Used in a TCM prescription ?

Is Any Risks With TCM Treatment ?

About Acupuncture

What is acupuncture care?

How Does Acupuncture Work ?

What Conditions Has Acupuncture Treatment Been Found Helpful ?

Does Acupuncture Hurt ?

Is Acupuncture Safe ?

What If I’m Afraid Of Needles ?

Can Children Receive Acupuncture ?

Why Should I Get Acupuncture During Pregnancy?

What Kind Of The Conditions Treated During Pregnancy and Postpartum ?

Is Acupuncture Safe During Pregnancy?

About Chinese Herbs

What Is The Chinese Herb ?

What Can Chinese Herbs Do ?

Is Chinese Herb Benefitc For Chronic illness ?

Can Chinese Herb Reduce The Side Effect Of Other Medication ?

Is Chinese Herb Good For Prevention ?

Is Chinese Herb Safe During Pregnancy?

Have Herbs Been Processed Before Use By Patients?

What Difference Between Chinese Patent Herbs and Prescribed Herbs?

Can I Buy Chinese Patent Herbs From Herb Store Directly?

Are The Concentrated Herbs As Good As The Raw Herbs In Prescribed Herbs?

Why Are Chinese Herbs Always Mixed In Formula To Use?

What Should Be Precaution When Taking Herbs?

How Are Herbs Taken?

About Treatment And Other Services

How Many Treatments Will I Need ?

What Is Cupping ?

What Is Moxabustion ?

About Insurance And Payment Programs

Does My Insurance Covered Acupuncture?

What Kind of The Insurance Cover Acupuncture ?

Is Auto Insurance With Acupuncture coverage ?

Does Workers Compensation Insurance Covered With Acupuncture Treatment ?

What Are The Payment Options In Your Medical Practices ?

 

About Traditional Chinese Medicines

 

What Is The Theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is an ancient and still very vital holistic system of health and healing, based on the notion of harmony and balance, and employing the ideas of moderation and prevention.

The purpose of TCM is a complete system of health care with its own unique theories of anatomy, health, and treatment. It emphasizes diet and prevention and using acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage, and exercise; and focuses on stimulating the body's natural curative powers.

Traditional Chinese medicine seeks to harmonize and rebalance the entire human system rather than to treat just symptoms. Since proper internal balance is considered to be the key to human health, TCM strives to cure disease by restoring that balance and therefore allowing the body to repair itself. Its continuing medical goal is to detect and correct abnormalities before they cause permanent physical damage.

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What Is The Theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine?

In theory and practice, traditional Chinese medicine is completely different from Western medicine, both in terms of considering how the human body works and how illness occurs and should be treated. As a part of a continuing system that has been in use for thousands of years, it is still employed to treat over one-quarter of the world's population.

Since the earliest Chinese physicians were also philosophers, their ways of viewing the world and human beings role in it affected their medicine. In TCM, both philosophically and medically, moderation in all things is advocated, as is living in harmony with nature and striving for balance in all things.

Prevention is also a key goal of Chinese medicine, and much emphasis is placed on educating the patient to live responsibly. The Chinese physician also is more of an advisor than an authority; he or she believes in treating every patient differently, based on the notion that one does not treat the disease or condition but rather the individual patient. Thus two people with the same complaint may be treated entirely differently, if their constitutions and life situations are dissimilar. Disease is also considered to be evidence of the failure of preventive health care and a falling out of balance or harmony.

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What Is The Concept Of Yin & Yang / Five Elements /Chi(Qi)?

There is some confusion in the West about the fundamental philosophical principles upon which traditional Chinese medicine is based—such as the concept of yin and yang, the notion of five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal and water), and the concept of chi yet each can be explained in a way that is understandable to Westerners.

Yin and yang describe the interdependent relationship of opposing but complementary forces believed to be necessary for a healthy life. Basically, the goal is to maintain a balance of yin and yang in all things

The five elements, or five phase theory, is also grounded in the notion of harmony and balance.

The concept of chi also call Qi, which means something like "life force" or "energy," is perhaps most different from Western ideas. TCM asserts that chi is an invisible energy force that flows freely in a healthy person, but is weakened or blocked when a person is ill. Specifically, the illness is a result of the blockage, rather than the blockage being the result of the illness.

Qi is the energy that animates your body. It provides you with the ability to talk, walk, think, metabolize, dream, and love. Qi also protects you from illness, keeping you strong and healthy.Qi circulates through specific pathways called Meridians. There are 14 meridians pathways traveling throughout your body. Each one is connected to an organ system. Meridian pathways are like rivers. Where a river flows, it transports life-giving waters, nourishing the land and people around it. Like rivers, your meridian pathways transport life-giving Qi to energize and nourish your entire body, cells, tissues, and organs. When Qi travels freely throughout your body, you can enjoy good physical, mental and emotional health. An obstruction of Qi in your body acts like a dam. Backing up Qi flow in one area of your body, and restricting it in other areas. Restricting the flow of Qi will affect the proper nourishment your body requires in order to function correctly

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What Happen During Your First Visit With A TCM Doctor ?

TCM doctor also call Oriental Medical Doctor (OMD) offers a more humane, patient-oriented approach that encourages a high degree of practitioner-patient interaction and is not overly dependent on technology.

For example, during a consultation with a TCM practitioner, the patient will receive a considerable amount of time and attention. During the important first visit, the practitioner will conduct four types of examinations, all extremely observational and all quite different from what patients usually experience.

First, the practitioner will ask many questions, going beyond the typical patient history to inquire about such particulars as eating and bowel habits or sleep patterns. Next, the physician looks at the patient, observing his or her complexion and eyes, while also examining the tongue very closely, believing that it is a barometer of the body's health and that different areas of the tongue can reflect the functioning of different body organs. After observing, they listen to the patient's voice or cough and then smell his or her breath, body odor, urine, and even bowel movements. Finally, the practitioner touches the patient, palpating his or her abdomen and feeling the wrist to take up to six different pulses. It is through these different pulses that the well-trained practitioner can diagnose any problem with the flow of the all-important chi.

Altogether, this essentially observational examination will lead the physician to diagnose or decide the patient's problem. This diagnosis is very different from one in contemporary Western medicine. No blood or urine samples are tested in a laboratory. The key to this technique lies in the experience and skill of the practitioner.

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What Common Techniques Used in a TCM prescription ?

After making a diagnosis, the physician will suggest a course of treatment from one or all of the available TCM methods. These fall into four main categories: herbal medicine, acupuncture, dietary therapy, and massage and exercise.

• Chinese herbal remedies are intended to assist the body's own systems so that eventually the patient can stop taking them and never becomes dependent on them. Herbal formulas are usually given as teas, which differ according to the patient. A typical TCM prescription consists of a complex variety of many different herbal and mineral ingredients

• Acupuncture is based on the notion that the body's vital energy force, chi, travels through known channels or "meridians." The acupuncturist inserts tiny, thin sterile needles at particular, selected points on the body to unblock or correct the flow of energy. These needles are hardly felt as they are inserted and are left in place for 15 to 20 minutes. Some patients report immediate improvement, others feel exhilarated, while some feel like sleeping. In some cases, patients say their condition worsens before it improves. No contemporary scientific explanation exists as to how or why acupuncture works.

• Moxibustion is a variation sometimes employed. Moxibustion is the slow burning on or over the body of special herbal "cones." These are placed on specific acupoints and provide penetrating, relaxing heat.

• Massage is often recommended, and a deep finger pressure technique known as acupressure is often used to promote the proper flow of chi.

• Diet is considered essential to good health, and what might be called "kitchen medicine" is just another aspect of herbalism. One example is a delicious DQ black bean soup that is traditionally eaten by women in China after childbirth and each menstrual cycle.

• Therapeutic exercises are sometimes prescribed as well. In both the exact and flowing movements of tai chi, and the breathing techniques of Qi Dong exercise is considered essential to relieving stress and promoting the smooth flow of chi.

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Is Any Risks With TCM Treatment ?

In the hands of a qualified practitioner, TCM is very safe. However, there is a small chance of not only getting an infection from acupuncture, but also that an existing infection could be spread to other parts of the body by increased blood flow and circulation.

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About Acupuncture

What is acupuncture ?

Over the past 5,000 years acupuncture has evolved into a complete medical system that can diagnose, treat, and prevent illness. It is a safe, effective, and painless way to treat a wide variety of conditions. An acupuncturist will place fine, sterile needles at specific acupoints on your body. This quick and easy insertion stimulates your body's energy, called Qi, and unblocks any obstruction of Qi, strengthens your body, helps you to heal from acute or chronic problems, and balances both body and mind. Needling these specific acupoints restores the proper balance and flow of Qi, while improving the overall function of your body and enhancing it's recuperative power and immunity. Acupuncture can help you obtain and enjoy health and well-being.

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How Does Acupuncture Work ?

Acupuncture releases endorphins and enkephalins, norepinaphrine, and acetylcholine reducing pain and balancing the immune system. It also facilitates healing by reestablishing electrical conductivity between normal and injured tissues.  Acupuncture regulates blood components including triglycerides, cholesterol and lipids.

Many studies in animals and humans have demonstrated that acupuncture can cause multiple biological responses. These responses can occur locally, i.e., at or close to the site of application, or at a distance, mediated mainly by sensory neurons to many structures within the central nervous system. This can lead to activation of pathways affecting various physiological systems in the brain as well as in the periphery. A focus of attention has been the role of endogenous opioids in acupuncture analgesia. Considerable evidence supports the claim that opioid peptides are released during acupuncture and that the analgesic effects of acupuncture are at least partially explained by their actions. That opioid antagonists such as naloxone reverse the analgesic effects of acupuncture further strengthens this hypothesis. Stimulation by acupuncture may also activate the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland, resulting in a broad spectrum of systemic effects. Alteration in the secretion of neurotransmitters and neurohormones and changes in the regulation of blood flow, both centrally and peripherally, have been documented. There is also evidence that there are alterations in immune functions produced by acupuncture. Which of these and other physiological changes mediate clinical effects is at present unclear.

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What Conditions Has Acupuncture Treatment Been Found Helpful ?

Acupuncture as a therapeutic intervention is widely practiced in the United States. There have been many studies of its potential usefulness.However, promising results have emerged, for example, efficacy of acupuncture in adult post-operative and chemotherapy nausea and vomiting and in post-operative dental pain. There are other situations such as addiction, stroke rehabilitation, headache, menstrual cramps, tennis elbow, fibromyalgia, myofascial pain, osteoarthritis, low back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and asthma where acupuncture may be useful as an adjunct treatment or an acceptable alternative or be included in a comprehensive management program.

Findings from basic research have begun to elucidate the mechanisms of action of acupuncture, including the release of opioids and other peptides in the central nervous system and the periphery and changes in neuroendocrine function. Although much needs to be accomplished, the emergence of plausible mechanisms for the therapeutic effects of acupuncture is encouraging.

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Does Acupuncture Hurt ?

Patients feel a mild, dull sensation at the site of each needle or may feel a vague numbness, heaviness or slight tingling.Some of Patients won’t even feel the needle at all. Some patients report feeling pleasant tingling or warming sensations on the body during the treatment.  There may be some discomfort momentarily when the needle is inserted. We always ensure that the patient is comfortable during their treatment.

Acupuncture needles, unlike hypodermics, are ultra-fine and flexible, thereby permitting a nearly painless insertion. Acupuncturists attain a high level of skill in gently placing these tiny needles, and often the insertion is barely perceptible. After treatment some people are energized, while others feel very relaxed. Some points are more sensitive than others. Some patients are more sensitive than others.

Fear of acupuncture is mostly psychological. Through our many years of personal experience, we’ve discovered that 99% of our patients feel just fine with acupuncture needles. For those patients who are really afraid of needles, we usually just try one needle to see how the patient feels. Most of these patients are usually very surprised to find out that they are actually OK with needles.

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Is Acupuncture Safe ?

Yes, acupuncture is safe.  Licensed acupuncturists adhere to strict cleanliness standards from the Center for Disease Control and are trained and licensed in needle technique. Needles are sealed in sterile packaging and only used once. Used needles are disposed of safely in a biohazard container.

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What If I’m Afraid Of Needles ?

Most people are afraid of needles.  After an introductory discussion about acupuncture needles patients almost always feel relaxed and are no longer concerned with acupuncture needles.

If you find that you are a patient who is truly afraid of needles, don’t worry. We have many other procedures, or modalities, to use in acupuncture treatment, like cupping or acupressure. These modalities work as well as needles for most kinds of illnesses. We may also recommend that you take herbal products. So, your treatment can be needle-free.

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Can Children Receive Acupuncture ?

Yes, children can receive acupuncture and often have excellent results with this treatment. However, in cases where the children are uneasy about the needles, a practitioner may choose to use an acupressure treatment (massage of the acupoints), auricular treatment (small seeds or tacks on acupoints in the ears), or stimulation of the acupuncture points with an electronic device that delivers safe, micro-current through the skin as opposed to acupuncture. Many children can be effectively treated with Chinese herbal medicines alone that provide a safe, effective and drug-free approach to health as well.

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Why Should I Get Acupuncture During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is an exciting and wonderful time. However, with the many physical and hormonal changes that occur, it can also be a time of discomfort. Many pregnant women suffer from fatigue, nausea, backache and other conditions that are considered a "normal" part of pregnancy. Acupuncture is a safe, gentle and effective way to address these complaints, especially since many Western medications can't be used during this time.

Regular acupuncture during pregnancy sets the foundation for a healthy mother and baby. In addition, women who receive acupuncture during pregnancy often have a shorter and easier birth experience than women who don't receive acupuncture. Several European studies concluded that women who received acupuncture once a week during the last month of pregnancy had significantly shorter labor than women who did not receive any acupuncture.

House calls are available for pregnant patients who are on full or partial bed rest. House calls are also available for postpartum treatments. Postpartum patients are welcome to bring their baby with them for office appointments.

What Conditions Can Been Treated During Pregnancy or Postpartum ?

Some of the conditions that acupuncture can treat are:

• nausea, vomiting, and hyperemesis gravidarum

• insomnia

• low energy

• anemia

• anxiety/depression

• constipation

• heartburn

• back pain and sciatica

• symphysis pubis pain

• carpal tunnel syndrome

• gestational diabetes

• high blood pressure (pre-eclampsia)

• PUPPs & other pregnancy-related skin conditions

• certain types of threatened miscarriage

• breech presentation

• posterior presentation

• pre-term labor

• delayed labor

• labor pain

• lactation problems

• postpartum depression

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Is Acupuncture Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes. Prenatal acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to help patients support a healthy pregnancy and uncomplicated delivery. An Australian study conducted by Adelaide University in 2002 found that acupuncture during pregnancy had no adverse effects and was completely safe when done by a trained acupuncturist.

You may have heard that some acupuncture points are forbidden during pregnancy. This is true - certain points are to be avoided during pregnancy as they may stimulate uterine contractions. However, a practitioner trained l acupuncture, as weare, will know which points can safely be used and which should be avoided. Also, all pregnant patients are seen regularly throughout their pregnancy by an OB/Gyn or midwife, which allows us to be well informed of any complications or health issues.

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About Chinese Herbs

What Is The Chinese Herb ? In China, people have been using natural herbs to treat a wide variety of diseases and conditions. These herbs are called herbal medicine, which are composed of roots, bark, flowers, seeds, fruits, leaves, and branches. It is well known that Traditional Chinese Medicine has over 3000 years history and Chinese herb medicine is one of most important part of Traditional Chinese Medicine which also includes acupuncture. In China, there are over 3000 different herbs that can be used for medical purposes. However, about 300 to 500 of these herbs are commonly used. It is important to use herbs grown in China rather than outside of their native environment. One must use the right herb from the right source to get the full benefit. [back to top] What Can Chinese Herbs Do ? Chinese Herbal therapy or herb medicine has three main functions treat the acute diseases and conditions such as killing bacteria or a virus heal chronic illness such as gastrointestinal disorder, respiratory disorder, allergies, immune system deficiency, etc. by strengthening the body, helping it to recover; maintain daily life health by keeping the balance of human body. In general, herbs can treat a wide variety of diseases and conditions. Comparing with chemical medicine, Chinese herbal medicine is much more gentler and safer because it is made of natural herbs. Most of Chinese herbs do not cause side effects. Even some side effects that do occur among a few herbs, those side effects can be easily counteracted with other herbs. For these reasons, people turn to herbal therapy for a number of indications. More and more people rely on Chinese herb medicine as alternative after chemical medicine failed. [back to top] Is Chinese Herb Benefitc For Chronic illness ? As we know, many people with chronic illness may take a number of different conventional drugs daily. Chinese herb medicine is a very good alternative for those who are looking for a natural alternative for the conventional western medicine. There are many very efficient Chinese herbal patent medicines and prescribed herb formulas for the medications taken for pain syndromes, gastrointestinal disorders, neurological disorders, stress related syndromes, respiratory disorders, heart problems, sexual dysfunction, allergies and immune system deficiencies, as well as replacements for antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. [back to top] Can Chinese Herb Reduce The Side Effect Of Other Medication ? As mentioned early, Chinese herbs are safer and less side-effects. Actually they can be taken to reduce the side effects of other medication such as antibiotics, chemotherapy, etc. It is well known that antibiotics weaken the immune system. Herbal therapy can strengthen the system. Also, during chemotherapy, the white blood cell count drops, which causes fatigue, lack of energy and appetite. Herbal therapy has proven quite successful in relieving the side effects of chemotherapy. [back to top] Is Chinese Herb Good For Prevention ? People may take Chinese herb medicine for disease prevention. For instance, for a person suffering from frequent headaches, taking herbs to prevent the headache from ever starting is a much better option than taking a pain reliever after the fact. Herbs are also used to prevent the flu, menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome, among other things. For health maintenance- Herbal therapy can also be used for general health maintenance. Tonic herbs are used to increase energy and to slow the aging process. They are also used for enhancing sexual energy and for cosmetic purposes. Herbs arc also used to treat minor symptoms that are not severe enough for heavy chemical drugs, symptoms that cannot be diagnosed by Western medicine, and symptoms and illness that are not easy to treat, such as mononucleosis and immune system deficiencies. [back to top] Are Chinese Herbs Safe During Pregnancy? Many Chinese herbs are safe to use during pregnancy. In fact, some herbs are very beneficial, such as herbs used to prevent a threatened miscarriage or herbs used to calm uterine contractions during pre-term labor. Some herbs, however, are not safe during pregnancy. These herbs can initiate uterine contractions or may be toxic to the fetus. A practitioner trained in prenatal acupuncture will know which herbs are safe to use and which are to be avoided. The need for Chinese herbs during pregnancy is evaluated on an individual basis. Herbs are usually prescribed only when absolutely necessary. [back to top] Have Herbs Been Processed Before Use By Patients? Yes. Chinese Herbs have been processed before use. First of all, the processing can reduce any possible side effects of herbs by detoxifying the herbs. The second reason for processing herbs is for filtering out impurities such as dirt and sand. Another reason is the processing can soften the strong taste or smell of herbs. Finally, it is very important to address that processing herbs can enhance their functions. [back to top] Are Chinese Patent Herbs and Prescribed Herbs Difference? Chinese Patent herbs are premixed herb combinations according to the traditional formulas developed by experts in traditional Chinese medicine through over 3000 years. They are similar to over-the-counter-drugs and usually in the form of pill, capsule and liquid. The advantages of Chinese patent herbs are convenient, ease to take, less expensive. However, patient's symptoms must fit the patent herb's narrow indications. Prescribed herbs are mixed by a herbalist according to an individual patient's symptoms and diagnoses. In general speaking, prescribed herbs are more effective than patent herbs because the prescribed herbs are tailored to your symptoms and conditions exclusively by your herbalist if he or she is very good at traditional Chinese medicine. [back to top] Can I Buy Chinese Patent Herbs From Herb Store Directly? Although Chinese patent herbs are relative safe and have less side-effect,WeI do not recommend That you buy Chinese patent herbs from herb store or other channels without obtaining advice from a certified herbalist. [back to top] Are The Concentrated Herbs As Good As The Raw Herbs ? Yes! The concentrated herbs are made from the raw herbs. First of all, best herbal sources from China are selected. Then these raw herbs are purified. After that they are processed through steaming, cooking, finally condensed into fine granular particles. Therefore, they are easy to be dissolved and absorbed and enhance the healing process. [back to top] Why Are Chinese Herbs Always Mixed In Formula To Use? Chinese herbalists usually do not prescribe single herb for their patients. Chinese herbs usually are used in combinations of 8 to 15 herbs. There are three major reasons to support the combination practice. Mutual Reinforcement involves combining two or more very similar herbs together to create a stronger effect. Mutual Assistance is the way to use one herb to help another work better. Mutual Restraint is meant to use one herb to reduce or eliminate side effects of another herb in the combination. All of these demonstrate that a herbalist should be experienced and knowledgeable about herbs before attempting to combine them. Otherwise, Mutual Inhibition occurs when one herb reduces another's Effectiveness; Incompatibility occurs when the combination of certain herbs produces side effects or becomes poisonous. We received many emails and phone calls regarding where to buy single Chinese herb. Many of people in the United States misunderstood Chinese herb medicine when they tried to use single Chinese herb to treat some diseases and conditions. One of the most important advatages of Chinese medicine is the power of mixing. [back to top] What Should Be Precaution When Taking Herbs? Like anything else you put in your body, you should be taken a certain amount of caution when you take Chinese herbs. For instance, some herbs are too strong for pregnant women and may cause miscarriage. Certain foods can have adverse effects on the herbal therapy. In general speaking, when taking Chinese herbs, one should avoid food that is raw (fruit is okay, but vegetables should be cooked), greasy, strong tasting or smelling, difficult to digest (such as beef), or irritating to the digestive system (like spicy foods). It is always a good idea to get advice from a herbalist before you take Chinese herbs. [back to top] How Are Herbs Taken? As you know, prescribed herbal medicine is traditionally taken in tea form. Human body absorbs tea easily and quickly so it is the most commonly used method. Sometimes, if the smell or taste of the herbal medicine is unpleasant, capsule or tablet form of this herbal medicine is recommended. Tea should always be warm, and capsules or tablets should be swallowed with warm water. Generally, it is best to take herbs just before you serve meals. You should consult a herbalist for specific instructions on taking herbs. For example, tonic herbs, to promote health, are best taken before meals. Purgative herbs, to cleanse the system, are best taken on an empty stomach. Herbs that either irritate the stomach or are taken to protect the stomach should be taken after eating. Herbs for insomnia and other sleeping disorders should be taken at bedtime.

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About Treatment And Other Services

How Many Treatments Will I Need ?

Once the diagnosis is complete, the practitioner will discuss a short evaluation period for the patient to determine the extent and course of therapy needed based on the patients response to treatment. The patient will have an opportunity during the evaluation period to ask questions regarding their prognosis. At the end of the evaluation period, the physician will review the patients progress to date during a report of findings and develop a care plan to address the problem. Complimentary treatments such as herbal medicine, cupping, moxa, auricular acupuncture, etc. may be included in the plan.

The total number of treatments required to effect change in a condition varies dependent upon the disease and patient. Consultation with an experienced practitioner on you and your condition will offer the best guide for the length of treatment. Every patient is different. The following criteria are used to determine initial treatment plans. Is the patient of strong or weak constitution? Is the problem of an acute, severe nature or chronic nature? Is this a treatment for a new condition or a long term illness? Is the patient compliant with care leading a healthier lifestyle with good nutrition and exercise or do they lead a life of poor nutritional and health habits?

The frequency of care is critical to address problems initially. The more acute care is needed, the more frequent the treatment to eliminate symptoms. Correction of the root cause of the problem usually takes longer with less frequency. Many patients seek to maintain health and balance once wellness is obtained through regular acupuncture visits on an infrequent basis.

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What Is Cupping ?

Cupping is a therapy that stimulates the flow of blood and Qi to the superficial muscle layers. It is used to break up blockages of Qi, for sore muscles, tension, neck pain, and the common cold. In this therapy, your acupuncturist will place small glass "cups" over specific areas on your body. A vacuum is created under the cup using heat or suction. Sometimes your acupuncturist may slide the cups over certain areas, or just leave them still. You may leave the office looking as though a large octopus gave you a big hug. But don't worry; the slight redness will dissipate quickly.

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What Is Moxabustion ?

Moxabustion is an herb called mugwort. When moxabustion is given, the acupuncturist may burn the herb on the handle of the needle or on salt or a slice of ginger either directly on the skin, or just above the your skin. This will warm the acupuncture point or certain areas and quicken your healing process.

When lit, moxa burns slowly and provides a penetrating heat that can enter the channels, or meridians to influence qi and blood flow.

A very common form of indirect moxabustion uses moxa sticks, which resemble large cigars or incense sticks. These are lit and held about an inch above the point or area to be treated. They are usually rotated or turned quickly toward, and then away from the skin.

The choice of when, where, and if moxabustion is to be used is a matter of clinical judgement for the practitioner, in consultation with the patient.

About Insurance And Payment Options

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