A Bit About Traditional Chinese Medicine...
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Chinese Medical Theory
The Five Elements Theory in TCM, named as wood, fire, earth, metal and water, divides human body into five systems. Each system has its own specific features that can be inferred by analyzing those natural materials. The movement and interchange among the five elements are used to explain human body’s physiology. Depending on the patient's condition, specific acupuncture points are used to help restore balance between these elements. For example if a patient is presenting with High Blood Pressure, which is most commonly a Wood Element imbalance, points along the Liver and Gallbladder channels will be utilized to restore harmony and remedy the condition.
Herbal Prescriptions
Herbal Therapy is important in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It has been used for centuries in China, where herbs are considered fundamental therapy for many acute and chronic conditions. Like acupuncture, Chinese herbs can address unhealthy body patterns that manifest in a variety of symptoms and complaints. The aims of Chinese Herbal Therapy are to help you regain balance in your body and to strengthen your body’s resistance to disease.
Tongue & Pulse Reading
Tongue and pulse diagnosis are two of the more important diagnostic tools in Chinese Medicine. They are both used to derive a TCM diagnosis for your condition which is used to plan your treatment. Generally the tongue, is much easier to learn and less subjective than pulse diagnosis. It is less meridian specific than the pulse, however, the tongue will show the depth and nature (hot, cold, etc.) of an imbalance and it is less effected by short-term influences such as nervousness. The tongue is also useful as a measurement tool to gauge the progress of a disorder.
Cupping
Cupping is a type of alternative therapy that originated in China. It involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. The suction may facilitate healing with blood flow. Proponents also claim the suction helps facilitate the flow of “qi” in the body. Qi is a Chinese word meaning life force. Cupping increases blood circulation to the area where the cups are placed. This may relieve muscle tension, which can improve overall blood flow and promote cell repair. It may also help form new connective tissues and create new blood vessels in the tissue.
