Traditional Chinese medicine, also known as TCM, is a type of natural healing system which started in China several years ago. In this method, various health problems can be prevented and treated by using herbs, acupuncture, qigong, cupping, and diet. TCM is very popular since it provides various health benefits to your body and mind.
There are several medical facilities in China which use this healing method together with modern techniques. Traditional Chinese medicine is also used in some parts of the world, but they consider it as alternative medicine.

Traditional Chinese medicine has a unique way of healing the body and mind. It is based on the belief that all the organs in your body support one another. Hence, if there is a balance in the body organs, then a person can be healthy.

To obtain a balance, there should be harmony between the yin and yang. These two energies are perceived to be contrasting yet they also complement each other. TCM believes that they can entirely affect a person’s life.

Traditional Chinese medicine also believes in the concept that each of us has vital energy which runs throughout our bodies. This essential energy, also known as “qi” or “chi”, follows specific paths, which are referred to as “meridians.”

Based on this theory, when there is some irregularity in the flow of qi, such as obstruction, weakness or extremity, then physical health problems can occur. That is why the flow of qi must be restored to obtain a balance between the yin and yang. As a result, health problems can be healed, and wellness can be attained.

As of the moment, scientists have not yet done extensive researches on the effects of traditional Chinese medicine as well as on its theory that it can treat certain health conditions.

Nevertheless, some people choose to use traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of several health conditions such as anxiety, back pain, diabetes, insomnia, obesity, arthritis, depression, allergies, high blood pressure, and Parkinson’s disease.

It is also great for treating fertility problems and menopause symptoms. If you are suffering from skin problems such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and hives, then you should try TCM.

Traditional Chinese medicine can also help in reducing inflammation. This is very important since inflammation is the major cause of various health problems. Typically, if you want to improve your strength and flexibility, then you can do tai-chi.

In modern medicine, the treatment will greatly depend on the patient’s diagnosis. But in TCM, it is done differently since it will be based on its underlying imbalance. For instance, if you are suffering from insomnia, then probably it is caused by an imbalance in your body.

If you are interested in using traditional Chinese medicine, then you can make an appointment with a practitioner who will evaluate your overall health. First of all, your health history will be assessed then a pulse assessment and a tongue assessment will be done. By performing a physical exam, imbalances in your body can be easily recognized.

After determining that there is an imbalance in one of your body’s organs, then it does not imply that you are suffering from a health condition on that particular organ. For instance, the liver can help in regulating the flow of a person’s vital energy or “qi.”

Once it becomes inactive, then the energy is obstructed, and it can result in anger, depression, and indigestion. On the other hand, if a person suffers from a kidney practitioner, then it can lead to forgetfulness, hot flushes, and dry mouth.

Traditional Chinese medicine uses various therapeutic methods but the most well-known is acupuncture. Keep in mind that traditional Chinese medicine focuses more on personalized treatment, hence, the treatment being used may differ from one person to another.

Although acupuncture was originally used in traditional Chinese medicine, surprisingly, some people use it as a treatment for various health issues. Acupressure is another type of method wherein more pressure is used on the acupuncture points.

Another option would be Tuina which is a combination of massage and acupressure. Tai chi and qi gong are wonderful exercises that are also part of TCM treatment methods. Treatment can also be found in the foods that you eat. TCM claims that some foods include warming or cooling properties which can aid in healing issues.

Herbal medicine can also be used for healing. This includes different types of herbs as well as herbal tea. Practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine do not regularly prescribe any particular herbs. What they will do is they will mix different herbs based on the needs of the person. This mixture will be turned into capsules, teas, tinctures, and powders.

Traditional Chinese medicine uses different types of herbs, but the most common ones are Ginger, Cinnamon, Ginseng, Astragalus, Yu Xing Cao, Ginkgo biloba, and Gotu kola.

Moxibustion is another type of TCM treatment wherein an herb is burned and placed near the skin. The purpose of this is to keep the area near the acupuncture points warmer.

Before making a decision, you need to understand that only a few clinical trials were being done on TCM. Hence, you must avoid self-treating yourself. Do not use this as a substitute for standard care.

If you want to consider using traditional Chinese medicine, then you can make an appointment at Westchester Acupuncture. For your questions and inquiries, you can give us a call at 917-273-8912. We have qualified practitioners who can help you in understanding the pros and cons of traditional Chinese medicine. We can help you decide whether it’s appropriate for your health condition or not.

Westchester Acupuncture offers traditional Chinese medicine to our clients. Although TCM is considered an independent type of traditional medicine, nowadays a lot of people are searching for treatments from different sources.

At Westchester Acupuncture, we take good care of our patients, so we want them to experience both eastern and western care. We also coordinate with medical doctors and other practitioners to make sure that we are providing you the most comprehensive care.