traditional chinese medicine
"One of the most ancient therapeutic methods "
Traditional Chinese Medicine has been practiced systematically for more than 3,000 years, with its methods and practices evolving through the centuries. It is based on the theory that the body has the ability to cure itself and restore its own balance and health by means of self-healing mechanisms. The aim of Chinese Medicine is to stimulate these mechanisms.
Chinese medicine focuses mostly in observing and correcting imbalances in the body’s flow of energy. It also observes (and addresses) problems in the function of the body, before these manifest as an illness. Therefore, the practice of Chinese Medicine can not merely treat health problems, but also prevent them.
Traditional Chinese Medicine aims to restore balance and harmony in the body. It is a Holistic Health approach, because it treats the person as a whole, including mind, soul and body.
Chinese Medicine comprises a series of therapeutic practices, such as acupuncture, Gua Sha, Cupping and Chinese Herbal therapies.
Traditional Chinese Acupuncture is one of the most ancient therapeutic methods in the world.
It is a complete therapeutic technique which is based on the idea of balancing the two energies present in the body. It focuses on the treatment not merely of the symptoms, but mostly of the root causes of each illness.
The needles used (disposable and sterilised) are inserted in specific spots of the body to restore the natural flow of energy throughout the body, thus energising the process of self-healing.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recognises Traditional Chinese Acupuncture as a valid treatment for a wide array of ailments. Its pain-killing, anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant and anti-allergic properties have been recognised for centuries. Treatment with acupuncture does not obstruct or interfere with any other medicinal or surgical procedure – on the contrary, it may boost their efficacy. By treating health holistically, acupuncture puts into motion the body’s own healing powers. This results in a significant boosting of the immune system. In simple words, the body’s defences against exterior threats are strengthened. It is significant to notice that acupuncture has the ability to actively prevent diseases, by boosting the overall function of the body.
It must be mentioned that, throughout history, acupuncture has been one of the most important techniques of balancing the body’s energy, where as in China itself it is the most popular healing method.
Gua Sha is essentially a massage technique for the skin. It is usually applied to the back of the neck, the back, the buttocks, the arms and legs. A “softer” version is used for the face.
The first step is to apply the appropriate body oils. Then the practitioner uses special tools (made of jade or quartz crystals) in movements whose aim is to invigorate blood flow. The improved blood flow makes wounds heal faster. Gua Sha also dissolves obstructions to the flow of energy (“qi” or “chi”). This leads to less inflammation, making Gua Sha ideal for the treatment of inflammatory diseases which cause chronic pain, or pain in the joints or muscles.
The effectiveness of Gua Sha as a treatment for stiff joints, headaches, fatigue, insomnia, infections of the respiratory tract and digestive problems has been recognised, but it is also especially effective against cellulite – the most common skin inflammation. Finally, Gua Sha promotes relaxation and wellness, by reducing stress levels.
Cupping is a very ancient healing technique, mentioned in ancient healing manuscripts, including the books of Hippocrates. It is based on the theory that several health problems may be caused by impeded blood or energy flow. By cupping, healing is promoted as well as the production of new, healthy cells.
Cupping consists of applying suction cups on the skin so as to enhance blood and energy flow in the area around them. The cups may be placed on the skin directly or after a preliminary massage with oils, to increase blood flow locally. The cups are usually placed at the back of the neck, the back, the buttocks, thighs and belly. The number of the cups placed depends on the patient’s condition and the size of the cups used.
According to research, cupping is more effective for the treatment of pain than thermal pads or medication (analgesic or anti-inflammatory drugs). Cupping may be combined with Traditional Chinese Acupuncture to maximise the effect, especially in the treatment of pain.
More specifically, cupping is effective in treating the common cold or other respiratory ailments; musculoskeletal pain (cervical spine pain, pulled muscles, etc) and post-workout recovery. They are also effective in treating rheumatoid pain (fibromyalgia, arthritis), menstruation cramps or digestive problems. Finally, cupping helps in the removal of toxins from the body as well as treating cellulite and fluid retention.
FAQs
Is Traditional Chinese Medicine compatible with western medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic treatment. That is why it may be used to complement any other medical treatment, thus maximising the health outcome.
Is Traditional Chinese Acupuncture a safe method?
It is perfectly safe, since the needles used are disposable and available in sterilized packages. It should be also noted, that it is a practice without any side effects.
Why should I use Traditional Chinese Acupuncture?
Traditional Chinese Acupuncture is beneficial to the health and may function preventively, by boosting the immune system. Specifically, it helps balance the flow of energy, resulting in the optimal function of each organ and the body as a whole, making the latter stronger. It also has a positive effect on mental health, by minimizing stress and anxiety.