Thursday, May 26, 2011

Oriental Medicine: the Basics


I just asked an allopathic physician what Western Medicine does for sore throats, coughs, and nasal discharge caused by a virus. “Nothing,” was her reply. Well, I want everyone out there to know that TCM, which means Traditional Chinese Medicine and is also known as Eastern Medicine and Oriental Medicine, can do something about these conditions. Throw in essential oils and TCM has a recipe for complete health.
 
Acupuncture, herbs, diet, and essential oils can release the exterior of a person’s body, throwing the pathogen ─ whether viral or bacterial ─ out, while simultaneously establishing an internal environment where germs cannot thrive. Acupuncture may sound scary to you, and the thought of drinking root juice may not appeal to you, but at least you will not be ingesting harmful chemicals and you will be regaining your health.

The California State Oriental Medical Association (CSOMA), according to their website, is “a professional organization of licensed acupuncturists and supporters of Oriental medicine dedicated to the preservation and advancement of the art, science, and practice of Oriental medicine.” Oriental medicine encompasses the techniques being used in China, Korea, Tibet, Japan, Viet Nam, Thailand, and even India for over 2,500 years.

According to A User’s Guide to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine published by CSOMA, Oriental medicine has “gained worldwide acceptance and recognition as effective medical treatment.” Substantial research proves that Oriental Medicine is a valid and valuable alternative when considering a treatment protocol. Acupuncture, acupressure, Chinese herbal medicine, and Tai Chi are a few of the better known modalities; however, Oriental Medicine is comprised of so much more.
Cupping is a suction device used on the back of the client to stimulate blood and qi (energy) circulation, and to disperse certain pathogenic factors. Truly, each acupuncturist has a plethora of techniques ready to offer clients individualized treatments.

For more information about CSOMA, please visit their website at www.csomaonline.org, and visit Debbie Allsup’s profile by clicking on “Find a Practitioner," and you can find her at her AuthenticSelf Acupuncture & Beyond Facebook page.