Herbs and Healing – Acupuncture Associates: Acupuncture



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ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture is a centuries-old branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves the insertion of hair-thin, disposable needles into specific points along the surface of the skin. Points are selected and organized into "prescriptions" based upon a TCM diagnosis, which is determined both by taking the patient’s pulse and “reading” her tongue. Acupuncture balances your qi, or life force, by balancing the energy along “meridians.” The treatment is very relaxing, with minimal sensation at the needle site.

There are many styles of acupuncture. The Herbs and Healing acupuncture staff (Acupuncture Associates) has studied a variety of styles so we can give each patient the best treatment for his or her situation.

The World Health Organization endorses acupuncture as a treatment for many conditions but since we treat your body as a whole, treating your main ailment (say, migraines) will often have beneficial "side effects" including:

• Better sleep

• Improved digestion

• Reduced stress (and therefore prevention of disease)

• Reduced allergies

• Normalization of blood pressure










	More Info?

	Acupuncture points are located all over the body, mainly on pathways called meridians. Often we use points that are far from the affected area. Think of it as regulating a water supply via a distant valve. A good example of this is the use of point LI4, on the hand also named hegu, for sinus headache.
	Sometimes points are stimulated with a gentle warming technique call moxibustion, or moxa for short. The material used is prepared from the herb artemesia vulgaris, common mugwort. This herb is burned over an acupuncture point to warm or open a channel. It is also used to relieve pain and nausea. Several studies since 1998 have shown moxa’s efficacy in treating breech presentation in pregnancy.
	Acupuncture is also very relaxing which is confirmed by modern research. Many patients like the opportunity to get a little cat-nap in during their treatment!

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