The use of acupuncture and moxibustion have been important components of Chinese Medicine since 500 BC and have only recently (within the last 200 years) been introduced into western medicine. Based upon the theory that energy flows in patterns around the body through “meridians”, an interruption of this flow results in symptoms of disease. Once this pattern is recognized, tiny needles are inserted at points along the meridian to restore the normal balance of energy flow throughout the body. In the process, the patient’s health is restored.
Acupuncture can be performed either along the numerous body meridians, or on ear points in a technique termed auricular therapy. A variety of conditions can be treated with acupuncture such as allergic reactions, asthma, bronchitis, cystitis, diarrhea, dysmenorrhea, headaches, hypertension, insomnia, muscle pain, stomach aches and toothache, to name a few. Additionally, acupuncture has been found to be very effective for stopping smoking or withdrawing from prescription or other drugs, as well as for the management of pain.
At one time or another most everyone has experienced an allergic reaction such as hives, urticaria or contact dermatitis, or as sneezing, runny nose or difficulty breathing. The symptoms associated with allergies vary among individuals but are the body’s attempt to counteract the environmental or food allergen. A variety of diagnostic procedures are available to elicit the offending agent that may be used by the physician, or the doctor may choose to conduct an elimination and reintroduction program which also helps identify offending allergens.
Programs to diagnose and treat allergies are developed for the individual patient and may include homeopathic desensitization, immune system enhancement, dietary changes, and macro-nutrient administration. Depending upon the type of allergy present, whether it is an acute or chronic problem, and how long the person has suffered with it, patients can expect a gradual return to health as well as strategies as to how to avoid potential allergens.