CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE
What is Chinese herbal medicine?
Chinese herbs are often used in conjunction with acupuncture for added therapeutic effect. While many cultures have herbal medicine traditions, the sophistication of Chinese herbal medicine is unsurpassed. Chinese herbal medicine has a long history reaching back several thousand years, and the resulting system is now used to treat everything from the common cold to chronic disease.
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There are thousands of herbs in the Chinese materia medica, of which about 300 are commonly used. You will generally receive a mixture of several different herbs in a formula that has been tailored to your condition. Chinese herbs are extremely effective and normally have only mild side effects if any at all. However it is very important to tell me about all the medications and supplements you are currently taking so that we can avoid any unwanted interactions with your formula.
What is moxibustion?
Moxibustion is the practice of heating an acupuncture point with mugwort after it has been finely rolled into a wool (known as moxa). Moxibustion can be used directly on a point or compressed into a stick and held over a point. This traditional technique promotes the circulation of Qi and blood and counteracts cold and dampness in the body. This safe, non-invasive technique may be used alone, but it is generally used in conjunction with an acupuncture treatment.
What is cupping?
Cupping is an ancient technique in which a glass cup is applied to the skin of the back and neck through suction. The vacuum-like action draws superficial tissue into the cup. The cups can be either be left in place (fixed cupping) or moved along the body (running cupping). Cupping removes toxins, heat, and stagnation trapped in the tissues.
Elaina utilizes all of these modalities depending on her patients needs and concerns. As with all treatments, they are patient guided, so if a client comes in, and they do not want a particular modality or they know that something has been previously effective, Elaina is open to their wishes and experience.
