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The Benefits of Acupuncture for Insomnia: A Holistic Approach to Better Sleep

By Brenda Petty | Published September 4, 2024

 

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, leading to difficulties in falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. While conventional treatments like medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy are effective, many individuals seek alternative therapies to avoid potential side effects. One such alternative is acupuncture, an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Recent studies, including those published in reputable medical journals like JAMA, have shed light on the efficacy of acupuncture in treating insomnia.

Understanding Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body, known as acupoints. These points are believed to be connected by pathways called meridians, through which the body’s vital energy, or “qi,” flows. By stimulating these acupoints, acupuncture aims to restore balance and promote natural healing processes.

Evidence from Medical Research

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine explored the effects of acupuncture on patients with chronic insomnia. The researchers found that participants who received acupuncture treatments experienced significant improvements in sleep quality, sleep duration, and overall well-being compared to those who received sham acupuncture or no treatment1. The study highlighted that acupuncture could be a viable option for individuals seeking non-pharmacological treatments for insomnia.

Another review in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine analyzed multiple clinical trials and concluded that acupuncture effectively reduces insomnia symptoms by influencing neurotransmitters involved in the sleep-wake cycle, such as melatonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)2. These findings suggest that acupuncture not only helps in falling asleep but also enhances the quality of sleep.

How Acupuncture Works for Insomnia

  1. Regulating Neurotransmitters: Acupuncture has been shown to modulate the levels of neurotransmitters that play a crucial role in sleep regulation. By increasing the production of melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep, and GABA, a neurotransmitter that induces relaxation, acupuncture helps in achieving a restful night’s sleep2.
  2. Reducing Stress and Anxiety: Insomnia is often linked to stress and anxiety. Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and mood elevators. This helps in reducing stress levels and promoting a sense of calm, making it easier to fall asleep1.
  3. Balancing Energy Flow: According to TCM, insomnia can result from imbalances in the body’s energy flow. Acupuncture aims to correct these imbalances by targeting specific acupoints, thereby restoring harmony and improving sleep patterns2.

Practical Considerations

Before starting acupuncture, it is essential to consult with a licensed and experienced acupuncturist. They will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the underlying causes of insomnia and develop a personalized treatment plan. Typically, a course of treatment involves multiple sessions over several weeks to achieve optimal results.

Conclusion

Acupuncture offers a promising alternative for individuals struggling with insomnia. With its ability to regulate neurotransmitters, reduce stress, and balance energy flow, acupuncture can significantly improve sleep quality and overall well-being. As more research continues to validate its benefits, acupuncture is becoming an increasingly popular choice for those seeking holistic and natural approaches to better sleep.

If you are considering acupuncture for insomnia, consult with a qualified practitioner to explore how this ancient practice can help you achieve restful and rejuvenating sleep.

1: JAMA Internal Medicine 2: Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further information!

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Natural Ways to Alleviate Headaches from an Eastern Medicine Perspective

By Brenda Petty | Published August 31, 2024

 

When you get a headache what does it feel like? Is it dull, nagging, aching and lasts all day? Is it sharp, stabbing, throbbing and short-lived?

 

Where is your pain located? Does it feel like a tight headband going from your forehead to the back of your head? Maybe into your neck? Is it on one side? Behind your eyes? Do you feel it at your temples or near your jawline?

 

Do you feel better when you lie down in a dark room and recuperate? Does eating a snack or a meal help? Conversely, do you feel better when you get out and take a walk or does eating a greasy meal make your headache worse or even bring it on?

 

In Eastern Medicine, the answers to these questions help to define and diagnose the type of headache you experience based on pain, location and whether your headache is a manifestation of a deficient or excess state.

 

 Excess vs Deficiency

Excess conditions tend to be more intense and acute while deficient conditions tend to be more dull, nagging and chronic. If your symptoms are better with rest, your headache is likely due to deficiency because you are easily depleted. If your symptoms are better with exercise or movement, your headaches are likely due to an excess state and you need to burn off energy.

 

In Eastern Medicine, when we diagnose a deficient state we tonify or nourish the imbalance, in an excess state we quell or calm the overactivity. We have several tools we use to bring the body back to balance. The main tools are acupuncture, nutrition and botanicals.

 

Acupuncture

One of the best ways to get immediate relief from a headache is to find a qualified, licensed acupuncturist in your area and get acupuncture treatments. Acupuncture is when tiny needles are inserted at specific locations that correspond to your pain. Many acupuncturists specialize in headaches and love treating them because acupuncture often provides on-the-spot relief and people leave the acupuncturist’s office headache-free. Regular acupuncture can also prevent headaches from occurring in the first place and many people end up getting regular treatments once or twice a month to keep their headaches completely away.

 

Nutrition

Eastern medicine has been treating headaches with nutritional recommendations for thousands of years. First, it is good to identify if you are more prone to a stress or tension headache if you have missed meals or are feeling hungry.  This type of headache means there is a deficiency occurring and the body needs energy in order to nourish itself and prevent a headache.

 

Many people are busy at work or on their computer focusing for hours and they are not paying attention to their hunger. This is a sign of a deficient-type headache.

 

It is also possible to experience a headache after eating foods that do not agree with your constitution. For example, if your headache pain comes with brain fog or muzzy feeling in the head, it is best to avoid sugary or fried foods and aim for healthy options.

 

Acupuncturists are also trained in what foods are best for what type of headache you are experiencing and can counsel you on how to change your meals to prevent headaches.

 

Chinese Medicinals (Botanicals)

There are many formulas in the vast Chinese Medicinal Pharmacy that are used for headaches. A licensed acupuncturist has undergone many years of training in this pharmacopoeia and can prescribe a formula that will bring homeostasis to an excess or deficient constitution. These formulas are often individualized to each person’s constitution with great precision or there are common formulas used that are also very effective.

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Strengthening Your Immunity with Acupuncture: Exploring Wei Qi and Self-Care Practices

By Brenda Petty | Published August 25, 2024

 

In our ongoing pursuit of optimal health and well-being, it is crucial to pay attention to our immune system. The immune system serves as our body’s defense mechanism, protecting us from external pathogens and internal imbalances. Acupuncture, a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine, offers a holistic approach to support and strengthen the immune system. In this article, we will delve into the concept of Wei Qi, discuss how acupuncture can enhance immune function, and provide self-care suggestions for promoting a resilient immune system.

Understanding Wei Qi and the Immune System:

According to Chinese medicine, Wei Qi is a vital aspect of our immune system. Wei Qi refers to the body’s protective energy, which forms a barrier against external pathogens. It circulates on the surface of the body, guarding us from invading pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and allergens. When our Wei Qi is strong and balanced, we are better equipped to resist illnesses and maintain optimal health.

Acupuncture works by restoring the balance of energy within the body, including strengthening the Wei Qi and supporting immune function. Here are some ways acupuncture can help enhance your immune system:

  1. Regulating Immune Response:

Acupuncture has been shown to regulate immune responses by modulating the activity of immune cells and promoting a balanced immune reaction. It can help calm overactive immune responses in conditions such as allergies, autoimmune disorders, and chronic inflammation.

  1. Boosting White Blood Cells:

Acupuncture has been found to increase the production of white blood cells, including T-cells and natural killer cells, which play key roles in immune defense. By boosting the activity of these cells, acupuncture strengthens the body’s ability to fight off infections and diseases.

  1. Enhancing Energy Flow:

Acupuncture stimulates specific points along energy pathways, known as meridians, to promote the smooth flow of Qi. By improving energy circulation, acupuncture helps to nourish the organs involved in immune function, such as the spleen and lungs, fostering a robust immune response.

Self-Care Practices to Support Your Immune System:

In addition to acupuncture treatments, incorporating self-care practices into your daily routine can further strengthen your immune system. Here are a few suggestions:

  1. Prioritize Quality Sleep:

Adequate sleep is vital for immune health. Aim for 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night to allow your body to recharge and regenerate. Establish a bedtime routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and consider acupuncture to address any sleep disruptions.

  1. Manage Stress Levels:

Chronic stress can weaken the immune system. Incorporate stress-management techniques into your routine, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or tai chi. Acupuncture can also help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

  1. Balanced Nutrition:

Maintain a balanced diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods to provide your body with essential nutrients. Focus on consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Consult with an acupuncturist for dietary recommendations that support immune health based on your individual constitution.

  1. Regular Exercise:

Engage in moderate exercise regularly to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and support immune function. Find activities you enjoy, such as walking, swimming, or dancing, and incorporate them into your routine. Remember to listen to your body and consult with your acupuncturist for exercise recommendations.

  1. Prioritize Self-Care:

Make time for activities that promote relaxation, reduce stress, and nurture your overall well-being. This may include reading, spending time in nature, practicing hobbies, or enjoying quality time with loved ones.

 

If you want to know more, please call me at 505-918-7596.

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Herbal Spring Cleaning: 3 Surprisingly Powerful Herbs for the Liver

By Brenda Petty | Published April 26, 2023

BLG2 – Herbal Spring Cleaning Timing is everything. Nature knows this and teaches us if we are paying attention. From winter to spring we can witness a drastic change in our environment. As that fresh spring breeze blows in and the cold barren landscape transforms into a vibrant display of life, we may feel like getting outside and shaking off some of that winter sluggishness.

 

In Chinese medicine, Spring is liver time, which is a time of rebirth, growth and movement. It is also a perfect time for supporting our liver function with some gentle detoxification. In accord with Chinese Medicine theory, the regeneration of liver cells is measurably more prolific after the spring equinox. [1] Our bodies know what to do. Liver function, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), includes regulating the movement of qi (energy) and blood in the body. It’s all about getting things moving again after nature’s slow season.

 

From a western biomedical standpoint, the liver is mainly an organ of detoxification. The liver degrades old red and white blood cells and breaks down toxic chemicals, cleansing and refreshing the blood. It actively filters 1.3 – 1.5 liters of blood every single minute. [2] It also synthesizes bile which carries toxins out of the body through the intestines.

 

There are 2 main phases of detoxification in the liver that process contaminants like medications, alcohol, and environmental toxins. Phase 1 is responsible for transforming fat-soluble compounds into water-soluble compounds. Phase 2 converts pesticides, alcohol, toxic metals, excess hormones etc. into safer compounds that can then be eliminated by other organs.

 

Herbology is the internal medicine branch of TCM. We can support liver function and in turn our natural spring renewal process with the use of some Chinese herbs. With an understanding that the safest and most effective herbal therapy is a customized one, we can look at a few herbal detox superheros:

 

Turmeric: (jiang huang)

TCM categorizes this herb as a blood mover. It unblocks qi and blood stasis and eases pain.

Western pharmacology recognizes its blood-moving and anti-inflammatory properties as well. [3] It is known to support both phase 1 and phase 2 of liver detox. A study on mice showed it also improved liver detoxification by lowering inflammatory markers, reducing oxidative stress and increasing glutathione (another important body detoxification product made in the liver). [4]

 

Turmeric can be enjoyed as a food, seasoning, supplement, or in tea. ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder can be added to meals. Be sure to add a little black pepper to increase absorption. You can also grate fresh turmeric root into soups, salads and curries.

 

Schizandra Berry (wu wei zi )

This amazing medicinal herb is also known as 5 flavor berry because it exhibits all 5 flavors. It also remarkably enters all 12 meridians and therefore has multiple beneficial effects on the body. It is mainly thought of as having an astringent action, which can treat symptoms of liver and kidney deficiency by preventing loss of qi and yin fluids. Bio-chemically, it is known to support regeneration of healthy liver cells. It has been used to help induce regeneration of liver tissue after part of the liver was surgically removed. [5] It also activates the phase 1 detox pathway, helps to decrease free radicals, protects cell membranes, and can assist in lowering stress-related increases of liver enzymes. [6]

 

Small amounts of the berries can be eaten fresh or dried and there are also tinctures, powders and supplements. But why not relax with a cup of some medicinal and delicious 5-flavor tea?

 

Gold Coin Grass: (jin qian cao)

Another herbal powerhouse to keep on hand for spring cleaning is Gold Coin Grass. TCM functions are to drain damp, remove heat and toxins, and eliminate stasis. In Western herbology, it is recognized for its ability to dissolve and prevent gallstones and promote bile secretion to help to move sediment and clear bile ducts. This is in addition to it’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects [7]

 

Gold Coin Grass is known for making a drinkable tea, but can also be taken as a supplement or tincture. It is not advisable for patients with diarrhea or those on anti-diuretic medications.

 

Listen to your body this spring. You may hear it calling for exercise, or emotional release. While you’re at it, try one of these 3 herbal superheroes and see what their powers can do for you!

 

To discover the full benefits of Chinese herbal therapy and how it can help you optimally adjust to the changing season, call your Chinese Medicine practitioner to schedule your next appointment!

[1] https://www.liversupport.com/spring-ideal-time-clean-liver/

[2] https://teelixir.com/blogs/news/herbs-detox-for-liver

[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073929/

[4] https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2020/9535731/

[5] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0367326X99001021

[6] https://chineseherbinfo.com/wu-wei-zi-schizandra-fruit-five-flavor-seed/

[7] https://www.chineseherbshealing.com/proven-herbal-remedies/gold-coin-grass.html

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A Healthy Forecast: How the Weather Affects our Health

By Brenda Petty | Published September 3, 2022

We’ve probably all heard motherly advice at some point reminding us to bundle up in cold weather so we don’t “catch a cold”, or hear grandpa accurately predict a storm when his hip starts aching. Or how about getting a case of the winter weather blues? Even in the western world we recognize a relationship with nature in terms of environmental conditions. Changes in temperature, sunlight, barometric pressure, and humidity all play a role in this relationship.

When it comes to the weather and our health, many in the west automatically think of how season changes and extreme weather can aggravate symptoms of asthma and allergies, but weather-related health concerns go far beyond seasonal allergies and asthma.  Changes in barometric pressure can affect joints (like Grandpa’s hip), and cause headaches.

Headaches can also be caused by heat and dehydration, so summer adventurers beware (bring lots of water!). High humidity can intensify heat too as it limits our ability to cool down through sweating, potentially leading to hyperthermia and heat stroke.

Cold weather can tighten muscles causing body pain. It also constricts blood vessels leading to an increase in blood pressure and increased risks of heart attack and stroke. While blood pressure tends to be higher in the winter, any temperature extreme, hot or cold, can affect heart function.

Sunlight is another aspect of weather that has a lot of influence over our health. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is often associated with the colder, darker fall and winter months. The reduced sunlight alters our melatonin and serotonin levels, potentially leaving us with disruptions in sleep and mood.

Ancient Chinese Medical texts describe a similar relationship between humans and their environment, though the wording and understanding of the nature of the environmental conditions differs slightly.

In TCM there are 5 main “climates” or environmental influences related to our health.

These are: COLD, HEAT, WIND, DAMP, DRYNESS

(summer heat, associated with late summer, is actually considered a 6th climate)

These potential causes of illness described in Chinese Medicine sound like weather patterns themselves and are considered external influences in origin but can penetrate to have effects on the body and create what we can think of as internal weather. We can also be more prone to their influence based on our constitution and lifestyle, (and can even manifest these ‘climates’ internally without external exposure).

Any extremes with these various conditions can allow pathogens to enter, if our self-protective energy and efforts are weak, and leave us vulnerable to infections, such as with colds/flus.

They can also go deeper in the body to directly affect the organs, with symptoms presenting throughout the body in the respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, nervous, musculo-skeletal systems and skin.

Wind is understood as the biggest trouble-maker as it often combines with other influences to wreak havoc in the body. It can affect the joints, bring on skin rashes, or cause a spell of dizziness, among other issues. Cold can kill the digestive fire; combine that with a damp invasion and you can experience bloating and/or nausea. Heat and dryness, on the other hand, can injure the blood and yin fluids of the body causing symptoms such as fever, restlessness, scanty painful urination, brittle hair and excessive thirst.

Chinese medicine takes a more preventative approach to these issues by addressing imbalances before they express as more severe symptoms. There is also a focus on the integrity of the defensive energy of the body as well as the body’s ability to handle transitions with stability. Knowing our bodies will be continuously exposed to the challenge of seasonal weather changes and potential extremes of climate conditions, we can prepare accordingly.

Don’t wait for an internal weather emergency to call for an appointment, get in asap to strengthen your resilience to external weather conditions, balance out your internal climates and assist you in transitioning season to season with ease and well-being!

 

Resource to expand on climates: https://tcmwiki.com/wiki/six-climatic-factors

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