Chinese Medicine at Red Leaf Clinic
Chinese Medicine is an ancient, intricate, and extremely effective health care system. It is based on the tenet that our bodies, minds, and spirits represent a whole universe where health is dependant on balance of all systems and harmonious flow of our life energy, qi. Ill-health arises when we fall out of equilibrium and organ systems become deficient or over-zealous, or when the qi cannot flow smoothly due to energetic blockages.
For a health care model so different from our own, Chinese medicine has achieved great popularity in the United States because it is so efficient at treating a wide array of health problems. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine have become well known for their efficacy at treating musculoskeletal pain, relieving menstrual disorders and menopausal symptoms, assisting with fertility issues, and addressing insomnia, gastrointestinal disorders, and anxiety/ depression. It is a complete health system capable of treating any health problem.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture promotes a smooth, even flow of qi to all bodily systems. As an analogy, picture the body as a system of rivers and streams that qi flows through, bringing nutrients and energy to tissues, and carrying away debris. However if a blockage occurs, such as when a beaver builds a dam and blocks the stream, then that tissue begins to suffer from lack of nutrients and stagnation builds up behind the blockage. This leads to sub-optimal functioning and symptoms begin to appear.
Using very fine, sterile, disposable needles inserted at specific points along the energy channels of the body, acupuncture re-establishes the flow of qi and the body can return to health. Most people find acupuncture a pleasant, relaxing experience.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
We would venture to say that the depth and breadth of the Chinese system of herbal formulas is unrivaled anywhere in the world. Many formulas used today were formulated hundreds or even thousands of years ago and were so brilliant in structure that they still are widely applicable. There is now also additional information based on scientific studies of the herbs.
Using both your Western medical diagnosis and the information gathered from a Classical Chinese evaluation, a formula can be designed specifically for you. We only use pharmacies that dispense reputable brands of herbs. The herbal companies used carefully pick the sources for their herbs and test them stringently for contamination.
Cupping
Cupping is a quirky treatment that is widespread through many Eastern cultures that involves suctioning glass cups to your back. I use cupping primarily to treat musculoskeletal pain or the pain and stiffness that comes with a cold or flu. Cupping feels good-- a bit like a massage.