Benefits of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese Medical practice where fine needles are inserted into specific parts of the body for the purpose of curing an illness. When the needles pierce through the body, they release blocked energy which is responsible for causing imbalances in health. This alternative medicine technique has been practiced in China for thousands of years and has been used to effectively treat health problems.

During an acupuncture session, the patient will lie flat on the table while the practitioner will insert needles into the body at various points. These points are gateways for the body’s energy flow. Acupuncture points redirect the energy to areas that are deficient. The needles inserted will be at an angle of 15 degree to 90 degrees. These needles can be manipulated by hand and they will be twisted depending on what the practitioner considers as right. Other motions that can be used include vibration, heating, cooling, and gentle electrification.

What can acupuncture help to treat? Acupuncture can strengthen the body’s immune system. This makes the body strong and also resistant to various illnesses such as infections, flu, and cold and so on. It can be used to treat psychological disorders such as phobias, eating disorders, anxiety, addictions and so on. Studies show that depression can be cured through acupuncture.

After surgery, acupuncture is highly effective in increasing vitality and body energy. Those with hypertension will find acupuncture to help them to control the problem and also give better energy levels. Today, everyone is interested in looking slim, but losing weight is not an easy task. Acupuncture is highly effective in bringing down weight by suppressing the appetite.

Those who have to take drugs for fighting off pain will find acupuncture to help reduce the need to take them frequently. It improves body circulation and in doing so energizes the body and strengthens it to fight off diseases. It has been noted that where various health medicines have failed to give adequate treatment, this form of Chinese medicine has proven to be quite effective.

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About Chinese Alternative Medicine

Kingdom of Ant – Alternative Medicine
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Chinese Alternative Medicine seeks to treat illnesses through a combination of various techniques that cure diseases by unblocking the energy flow in the body. One of the most well-known Chinese treatment methods is acupuncture.

According to the acupuncture theory, the body’s vital energy is Qi and it circulates throughout various body parts through energy channels called meridians. This flow of energy is similar to the way the body’s circulatory system works. If there is any interruption on the flow of Chi, the body succumbs to illness.

This form of medical treatment began around 2500 BC and is highly effective in treating various diseases that cannot be cured by western medicine. There are many acupuncture styles and techniques and these include Japanese style acupuncture, Korean Hand Acupuncture, Auricular Acupuncture, and Classical Chinese Acupuncture. The most commonly practiced form in the United States is the Classical Chinese Acupuncture.

The process of healing is done at three levels – mind, body and spirit. In curing the problem, it seeks to not just completely remove the symptoms of the problem but also the cause. Traditional acupuncture can treat chronic problems such as arthritis, migraines, and also other problems such as PMS, depression, chronic fatigue, headaches, migraines, chronic back pain, withdrawal symptoms of drugs and alcohol, infertility and so on.

During an acupuncture session, needles are inserted in various points of the body for the purpose of releasing blocked energy. However, it is not just the inserting of needles that is the critical factor here. In addition to the use of needles, a wide array of herbs is used with the needles or on their own. Pressure points are massages to help relieve muscle tension and bring abut relaxation. Lifestyle changes are also prescribed to reinforce treatment effects.

Acupuncture is a very effective alternate medicine or health medicine. In order to gain the best benefits from acupuncture treatment, it is necessary to have it done by an expert. Depending on individual health and the illness, it can take just a couple of sessions or maybe many sessions to ensure that the problem does not continue.

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How is Chinese Traditional Medicine so Effective?

Many people opt for alternative forms of treatment because they do not cause any side effects. One of the most popular forms of alternative medicine is Chinese Traditional Medicine.

The philosophy behind TCM is the energy Chi – Qi, which is considered to be a vital part of the human body. This is the energy that animates the entire body and makes everything to work as required. The Chinese consider Qi to flow through all meridians of the body. It is important to keep the meridians clear so that body health is maintained. Chinese Traditional Medicine can pinpoint at body areas where Chi does not flow, resulting in health problems. For example, health problems such as stomach ache, headache and pain are a result Qi stagnation. When this stagnant Qi is released, energy again begins to flow properly through the body and health is restored.

TCM considers Qi to come from the universe. Treatment for disease is based on the five element theory. The five elements include water, wood, fire, earth and metal. When any of these elements are affected, their corresponding body parts come down resulting in disease. Water covers body organs – kidney, wood – liver, Fire – Heart and Sexual Organs, earth – Spleen, and Metal – Lungs. Treatment is prescribed based on which organs are affected by checking the corresponding element and releasing the flow of energy to that element to bring about a cure.

Chinese Traditional Medicine is effective in curing so many health problems. It can cure problems such as depression, hypertension, hearing loss, diabetes, arthritis and so on. The reason why it is so effective is because it is able to resolve health problem by attacking the root of the problem. In areas where modern medicine has failed to bring about an effective cure, TCM has shown positive results and hence is able to show the right cure for the problem.

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Acupuncture – An Effective Alternative Health Therapy

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Many people try alternative health medicines because they fear the potential side effects that arise when using chemical-based medicines. The most popular alternative health therapy is Chinese Medicine. Though it has many techniques and practices, the most commonly known practice is acupuncture.

Acupuncture has been practiced in China for more than 2000 years. In the past hundred years, it has spread to Europe, United States and also Canada. It is a much sought after form of treatment because it can effectively curb many health problems such as depression, inflammation, high blood pressure, vertigo, angina and obesity. Those who do not want to take pain medication will find acupuncture effective in helping them control pain.

How does acupuncture take place? As part of the acupuncture process, fine needles are inserted into the patient’s skin at various acupuncture body points. The needles are inserted at various depths. The acupuncture Chinese medicine treatment takes places over a couple of weeks or on a fortnightly basis. A typical treatment course lasts for twelve sessions or less and each session last for half an hour.

A person taking the treatment has to lie face-up or face-down, while the needles are being inserted. When the needles first pierce through the skin, the person will not experience any pain, but once the needles reach the correct depth a penetratingly acute stimulation is felt. At times, the practitioner may pre-heat the needles, or electrify them with minute amounts of electricity post insertion. The needles stay inserted for some 20 minutes time, after which they are carefully removed.

People who undergo acupuncture treatment feel quite invigorated and energized afterward. Their health problem also reduces and they do not experience any pain or side effects that can occur with normal drugs. Those who have undergone acupuncture Chines alternative medicine treatment show positive results in treatment outcome particularly when normal drugs and medial treatment have failed to bring a cure.

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Can Acupuncture Work for You?

Acupuncture originated in China more than 2000 years ago and in the early part of the 19th century, it spread to other parts of the world. Today it is one of the oldest medical procedures and also one that is reported to show considerable treatment benefits and positive outcome in curing health problems.

According to Chinese medicine, everything in nature is ruled by yin and yang forces. If there is an imbalance in these energies, it can result in health problem. The aim of Chinese medical treatment is to bring back this energy into a proper balance, so that health is restored again.

Any person who is considering acupuncture should inform the practitioner about their medical history. A typical acupuncture course is made up of twelve sessions. During an acupuncture session, fine needles are inserted into acupuncture points, or those areas of the body that have been marked out for the procedure. The needles are thin, solid, metallic ones and they can be manipulated by hand, else they can be stimulated through electricity. When the needles are heated, the process is called moxibustion. Here the acupuncturist will light up a small bunch of moxa herbs and holds it over the needles. The herb burns off slowly to give off some smoke and a pleasant incense-like smell. When electricity is used to heat the needles, electrical wires are hooked up to the needles and some weak current is passed through them. A mild, tingling sensation is felt during the treatment process.

Hardly any pain is felt by the person undergoing this Chinese alternative health medicine treatment and those who take it up feel relaxed, else they feel energized. Acupuncture needles are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use by licensed practitioners. The FDA also lays down safety procedures that need to be followed when practicing acupuncture.

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How can Acupuncture Treatment Benefit You?

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Acupuncture is a very effective form of treatment because it can cure diseases without side effects. This is an ancient Chinese medicine health practice that has been used in China for more than 2000 years. Today it is popular in other parts of the world because it works as a satisfactory alternative health therapy.

What type of illnesses can acupuncture alternative health medicine cure? Acupuncture is effective in reducing sever chest pain – Angina caused by lack of blood and oxygen flow to the heart muscle. It is also useful in treating problems such as depression, numbness, headaches, fatigue, back pain and shoulder stiffness. It is quite effective in treating depression which is usually treated through chemical drugs that can cause side effects in the long-run.

With today’s hectic lifestyle, fatigue is a common problem. It can cause strained muscles and also insomnia. Acupuncture offers a solution to this problem and people suffering from tiredness report brisk sensation and an invigorating feeling after undergoing an acupuncture treatment session. Another health problem that acupuncture is effective in controlling is high blood pressure. The body releases polypeptides beta-endorphins during an acupuncture sessions and this can effectively control blood pressure. Those who are short-tempered will find acupuncture to offer them good relief from their health problems.

Women suffering from pre-menstrual syndrome find acupuncture an effective mechanism for controlling this problem. PMS symptoms such s body swelling, weight gain and other psychosomatic conditions can be brought under control through this technique. It has also proven to be effective in treating infertility and is known world-wide as being able to control this problem. You can also lose weight considerably with acupuncture. This is because it is effective in curbing cravings, controlling your appetite, which is the chief cause for obesity.

Acupuncture is a safe alternative medicine practice. Those seeking acupuncture treatment are advised to go to an experienced acupuncturist so that they can gain the complete benefits of this treatment form.

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Side by Side: Choosing Between a Free Discount Prescription Card and Alternatives

It was once a pervasive assumption, formed by years and misunderstandings: the public believed traditional Chinese medicine (more often named TCM) to be little more than an illusion. It was considered weak, ineffective and often dangerous; as so many thought it discouraged use of the more accepted methods. Modern science branded it without merit and the common man blindly followed. Times, however, have fortunately changed. And through this individuals are greeted with more choices than ever before. A local pharmacy can contain both a free discount prescription card and ancient herbal treatments. It’s a coupling that should thrill.

Because it serves as proof of new philosophies. No longer is TCM kept as a secret, hidden in the shadows of western techniques. It is instead offered without hesitation, with its emphasis on the balance between body, mind and soul embraced by many. Those tired of the standard choices look instead to TCM and they are often satisfied. It’s reliant on nature instead of the usual chemicals. And, with this, it has taken its rightful place among the public consciousness. The perception is no longer one of confusion but instead of a willingness to learn. Chinese medicine is no longer derided. It is used.

TCM is included with the more well known medications; and this offers a far better selection for all. Individuals are now encouraged to decipher their own needs, determining which is the better method for them. The scenarios may vary and the effects may not always be the same; but there is now the opportunity to discover more than traditional means and all should examine that opportunity closely. It may yield surprising results.

The old world and the new can indeed exist together. You must now simply embrace them both and discover which is right for you.

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Chinese Remedies For The Common Cold

A cure for the common cold is still a fantasy, but some alternative medicine systems are better equipped to handle those bouts of sniffling and sneezing better than others. Modern health medicines suggest many ways to keep a cold at bay, but traditional Chinese medicine is particularly effective at fighting a cold even after it makes its entry.

Chinese medicine’s understanding of the common cold is in line with its philosophy of energy medicine. The common cold is seen as an invasion of Wind in the body. Accordingly, there are two major categories of colds; Wind cold and Wind heat. The former is characterized by chills and sensitivity to cold. Sneezing and a runny nose are also associated with Wind cold. Wind heat, on the other hand, is more like a fever. Coughing, thick mucus, irritability, and a rapid pulse are features of Wind heat.

Like other Eastern medical systems, Chinese medicine targets the immune system, unlike Western medicine which tries to eliminate the pathogen. The reasoning is that a strong Chi, or vital energy, will make it more difficult for a pathogen to take control or worsen.

For Wind cold conditions, sweating therapy is recommended to flush out the toxins from the body. A good supplement is miso soup with spring onions and ginger. Ephedra concoctions with ginger and cinnamon are also prescribed by practitioners. However, this must be taken only under medical supervision, as Ephedra is a very potent drug. Green tea is used if the cold is accompanied by nasal and head congestion.

In case of Wind heat, herbal formulas containing chrysanthemum, peppermint, mulberry, and licorice are prescribed. Ginseng and caffeinated drinks are strictly prohibited at this time as they can worsen the condition. Yin Qiao San is a very popular Chinese remedy which is also used to treat influenza and tonsillitis.

Acupuncture is also good for immediate relief from the common cold. Points along the lung and large intestine meridians are targeted, as they are directly linked to the well-being of the immune system. Like any other treatment, Chinese herbs should be taken only as per the instructions of a qualified practitioner.

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Pin Migraine In Its Tracks With Acupuncture

Migraine victims are a harried lot. Managing their condition, while simultaneously working or going about their daily chores is next to impossible. As a result, migraine is the leading cause of employee absenteeism in the U.S., with 157 million workdays lost each year. Moreover, medication and related expenses eat up approximately 50 billion dollars a year.

Conventional medication can only give temporary relief from migraine, so many sufferers are turning to alternative treatments, diets, and lifestyle changes to treat the root cause. Traditional Chinese medicine has come as a ray of hope to many, as it focuses on a more holistic approach to curing an ailment. Acupuncture particularly has come under the spotlight as an effective treatment for migraine. Some might be inclined to dismiss it as just another health medicine fad, but it helps to remember that acupuncture as a method of healing is more than 2000 years old.

Acupuncture involves inserting fine, metallic needles at specific points of the body. One of the reasons for its rising popularity is that the effects are cumulative; a patient would need fewer sessions with the passage of time. Acupuncture works by stimulating the release of endorphins, which provide relief from pain.

Many patients suffering from migraine undergo acupuncture to complement their current medications. Studies have shown that in most cases, patients report a significant reduction in the frequency and intensity of headaches after acupuncture. Such improvement translates into huge savings for individuals, employers, and economies, as migraine patients need no longer be restricted by their condition.

Acupuncture is fast gaining ground as a treatment for chronic pain, especially for headaches. The system has a growing user base in the U.S. Acupuncture is already well entrenched in Germany. Nearly all private insurers there reimburse acupuncture treatment costs.

Migraine can soon be a thing of the past if one uses the services of a licensed acupuncturist or traditional Chinese practitioner. Acupuncture, when done correctly without re-using needles, has practically no side-effects. It is also less expensive than most other migraine treatments.

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