Therapeutic Services

Chinese medicine consists of many different treatment modalities, any combination of
which may be used during your treatment. Below are brief descriptions of these
therapeutic techniques; please feel free to ask questions about the techniques.

Acupuncture uses very fine needles inserted at specific points on the body. These
points are found along channels (also called meridians) which flow all over the body,
forming a network. Gentle stimulation of these points allows vital substances such as
blood and qi (a form of energy in the body) to flow freely, which stops pain, improves
circulation, and promotes healing. This free, unimpeded movement of qi and blood is
the basis of health, and acupuncture seeks to restore this movement to promote
wellness and comfort in both the physical body and the mind.

Chinese herbs are medicinal substances that
may include various plant parts and minerals.
These herbs may be boiled into a tea or may
be administered in pill form. Your practitioner
can prescribe a Chinese herbal formula that is
specifically for you and your condition. These
formulas are usually based on classic formulas,
but may be modified to fit your specific health
needs at any given time. Herbs are given in
various forms; your practitioner can help you
choose a form that makes sense for you.
  Raw herbs: These are boiled in water to make a tea.
  Granules: Herbs that are ground to a powder, which is stirred into water.
  Pills: Standard formulas that can be purchased in pill or tablet form.

Moxibustion (also called moxa) is the burning of an herb called mugwort (artemesia) on or near the skin. This is done to promote movement of vital substances, or to warm
the body and facilitate bodily functions. Moxa is very safe and most people find it
pleasant and relaxing; some say it feels like lying in the sun!

Tui na is a form of Chinese massage. Tui na, which means "pushing and pulling", is
used to ease muscle strain and improve circulation, and is often used to enhance the
effects of acupuncture. Tui na can be done through the clothing or on bare skin; it
may involve oils or liniments, but can also be performed without any substance on the
skin.

Cupping uses glass cups and gentle suction to draw impurities and pathogens out
through the skin. The cups may be left in place or may be pushed gently over
lubricated skin. Most people find the sensations of cupping pleasant.

Gua sha creates friction on the surface of the skin to release pathogens and
impurities, and to encourage the healing and regrowth of injured or damaged tissue.
This is done using gua sha tools or a ceramic Chinese soup spoon over a lubricant,
such as Vaseline. The lubricant is used to protect the skin.

Diet therapy is an important part of Chinese medicine wellness and healing. It is vital
that we make good food choices so that our bodies can effectively process and extract
nutrients for efficient use. A practitioner can guide you in selecting foods that are
appropriate for your constitution and health needs.

Essential oils are very fragrant and aromatic, and are extracted from a wide variety
of everyday plants, such as grapefruit, lavender, geranium, and cedarwood. While
essential oils are not historically part of traditional Chinese medicine, they can enhance
the effects of treatment. They can also contribute to a pleasant experience during your
acupuncture session.
Imperial Healing Arts
Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine

a classical approach to healing the body and mind
Jessica I. Yunker, M.S., L.Ac.
acupuncture, nyc, new york
acupuncture, nyc, new york
copyright 2009 Yunker Acupuncture
Imperial Healing Arts
57 West 57th Street, Suite 1109
New York, New York, 10019
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