Herbal medicine uses plants to help heal.
What is herbal medicine?
Herbal medicine is the administration of natural substances in specific doses. Based on a patient’s unique symptoms and presentation, a combination of herbs is selected to treat the symptoms, achieve better balance in the body, and prevent the onset of symptoms in the future. Our Licensed Acupuncturists draw on a variety herbal medicine traditions depending on their individual training, including Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Western herbal approaches.
“I have been on a number of medications for many years. These medications inhibited me from being able to adequately treat seasonal allergies with over-the-counter options, and my sinus and breathing issues during certain times of the year were severe. I discussed the option of Chinese herbal medicine to relieve sinus congestion and was given a pill herbal formula to take during times of sinus issues. All I can say is “wow”! I am able to obtain relief within an hour or two with no side effects. I also use it as a preventative when I know pollen exposure is likely. I am very thankful for this herbal formula!”
How can herbal medicine help you?
Herbal medicine can be used for a variety of acute and chronic health issues, such as colds, allergies, asthma, headaches, digestive concerns, menstrual disorders, reproductive and sexual health, and body aches and pains.
Herbal formulas are most commonly administered in pills, powders, tinctures, or as dried herbs that are prepared as boiled tea called a decoction. For many pain conditions, topical herbal sprays or patches can help bring relief and promote healing.
Herbs are also used in moxibustion, an important modality in Chinese medicine. In moxibustion, a preparation of ai ye (Artemesia argyi folium, aka mugwort) is burned and held over the surface of the skin to introduce a deeply warming, moving, supportive energy to the body. Herbs are awesome!
In addition to herbal medicine, our acupuncturists also provide:
Lifestyle Education & Food Therapy
The lifestyle choices we make each day are some of the most important choices we make. Daily schedules, diet, sleep, stress management, spirituality, physical activity, ergonomics at home and at work, finding time for fun and relaxation amidst work and commitments, big life transitions — all of these things play a huge role in our health and wellbeing.
Food therapy is an incredibly effective way to address a variety of health concerns, promote healing, achieve balance from the inside out, and preventing the onset of disease and illness. This form of dietary counseling encourages mindful practices about what, when, and how we eat and drink.
We can work together to develop a plan that helps you support yourself everyday, one step at a time.
Interested in how herbal medicine can help you feel better?
Herbal medicine and food therapy consultations are included in all acupuncture appointments.
