Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a medical system originating in China and used extensively throughout Asia for more than 2,500 years. Using fine, sterile needles are inserted into specific points along the meridians, it stimulates Qi flow that encourages and guides the body’s own ability to regulate and heal itself.
Its growing prominence in Western countries speaks to its efficacy as a healing modality. Acupuncture balances Qi (vital energy) via meridians that transect the body.
Acupuncture has been reported to affect the homeostatic controls of the autonomic system, which consist of the sensory, motor and enteric nervous system.
The gentle effects of acupuncture stimulation can influence circulation, hormone regulation, digestion, stress and sleep cycles.
Complementary therapies such as moxibustion, tui na, aromatherapy and mediation are often included in an acupuncture session to maximize relaxation and healing
How does Acupuncture work?
Historically, acupuncture points were believed to be “holes” that allow entry into channels. These points give acupuncturists access to gateways to influence, redirect, increase, or decrease the body's vital essence and Qi, helping to promote rebalance and homeostasis.
Acupuncture has been proven to activate different biochemical regulating systems of the body, such as the endogenous endorphin (pain killer) system. Acupuncture has also been shown to naturally promote healing by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, regulating the immune system and affecting the central nervous system, and bringing the body into a parasympathetic response—a relaxed and rested state.
Acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the immune system. It also has affects the circulation, blood pressure, rhythm and stroke volume of the heart, secretion of the gastric acid, and production of red and white cells. It also stimulates the release of a variety of hormones that help body to respond to injury and stress.
What is Herbal Medicine?
Herbal medicine effectively treats various conditions, through a holistic approach based on an individual’s constitution and pattern identification and disease diagnosis. Herbal patents are recommended or formulas custom-blended from plant, animal, and mineral sources. Herbal formulas are designed with combinations of six to 20 ingredients acting synergistically to restore overall balance. Many of these herbs are commonly and routinely used in Asian cooking, thus food is regarded as medicine itself.
When prescribed and dispensed by a licensed practitioner, Chinese herbal medicine is safe and produces few or no side effects.
Is Herbal Medicine Safe?
Chinese herbal medicinals are very safe when recommended by a trained and certified Chinese Herbalist . Over the centuries and currently with new research, practitioners have compiled detailed information about these medicinals and have placed great emphasis on safety and protection of the patient. A majority of the formulations are based on traditional formulas that have been in practice for thousands of years. Reactions and or side effects are rare, and will cause no lasting negative effects if taken under the supervision of a certified herbalist and treatment is stopped as soon as symptoms appear.
We use medicinals only from reputable companies that meet FDA standards for applicable testing such as heavy metal content and other industry standards. If you are on medications or are taking supplements, it is important to tell us about them so we can make sure no harmful interaction will be present. Visit our store for a list of our herbal suppliers.
