While most people enjoy movie matinees on hot summer days, we were actually making a "movie" this summer! In case you missed it, Acupuncture Associates is proud to unveil our first video. It lives on both YouTube and our website home page, where we hope it serves as a good introduction as to how we approach acupuncture treatment at Acupuncture Associates. Click here or on the photo below to watch the video. |
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The Power of Chinese Herbs: Licorice
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Chinese herbs have been used for centuries. The first traditionally recognized herbalist, Shénnóng, is said to have lived around 2800 BC.
There are roughly 13,000 medicinals used in China and over 100,000 medicinal recipes recorded in the ancient literature. In each newsletter, I'll highlight one Chinese herb and its healing properties:
Licorice (Gan Cao)
 You may be familiar with licorice candy, but did you know that licorice is more than just a sweet treat? Licorice is one of the most popular herbs in Chinese medicine. As Herbal Beginnings magazine states:
“Licorice is a popular medicinal herb, having been so since the times of the ancient Assyrians. Its’ roots were valued by citizens of the Roman Empire, and it was commonly used in Chinese herbal formulas. It is most often used to soothe sore throats and coughs. Licorice soothes the chest and helps to break up phlegm. It is still found in many cough syrups and drops. It has been used to treat ulcers, relieve rheumatism and arthritis, and to help induce menstruation. It is sometimes taken in powder form, as a laxative. In China, it is called the “great detoxifier,” and often referred to as “the grandfather of herbs.”
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The Feng Shui Way: Orange
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Feng Shui is an 8, 000 year-old Chinese philosophy about the relationship between humans and their environment. Every item in a space and its placement is thought to either enhance or diminish our well-being. Based on the laws of nature, logic and common sense, we have incorporated feng shui principles into our office.
 The month of October makes everyone think 'orange' thanks to turning leaves, pumpkins, and Halloween.
At Acupuncture Associates, we celebrate "energetic" orange all year long. Here's why!
One orange element in our reception area is our koi fish lamp. Have you noticed it hanging behind the sofa?
This blog post explains the significance of koi fish in feng shui and the Chinese culture.
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Acupuncture and Autumn: Avoid Sticky Traps
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 Trick or treat! That sugary, gooey, delicious Halloween candy may be tempting, but be careful. It can turn out to be more of a trick than a treat. Did you know that 70% of the body's immune system is in the gut?
If your gut is too overwhelmed (shifting into high gear as it tries to digest tricky foods like sugar and processed chemicals), it can lead to problems elsewhere. Indigestion, colds, fevers, chills and coughs, to name a few. One key to preventing autumnal ailments: treat your gut gently. Eat in moderation, starting with Halloween candy. Add in more soups more cooked veggies. And don't forget to drink that warm water with lemon. If you still feel like the end of fall is bringing you down, there are acupuncture points to help clear out toxins, open up your sinuses, and restore your tummy from its unhappy rumblings...
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Acupuncture and Depression
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 According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, fall is the season associated with the metal element, which governs the mind, organization, order, and stability.
At this time of year, we tend to be more reflective, turning inward to our work, our families and our homes as we prepare for the winter season.
Emotionally, this season can be associated with grief and sadness. It is important to keep the mind clear and “let go” of negative emotions, which can impact health more strongly during the fall. If you suffer from any form of depression, including postpartum depression, acupuncture can help. |
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I recently saw a bumper sticker that said: "Acupuncturists gets directly to the point". This got me thinking about other professions and how they advertise the skills associated with their craft. Here are a few to tickle your funny bone:
- Plumber: “We repair what your husband fixed.”
- Tire
 Shop Workers: “Invite us to your next blowout.
- Electrician: “Let us remove your shorts.”
- Optometrist: “If you don’t see what you’re looking for, you’ve come to the right place.”
- Taxidermist: “We really know our stuff."'
- Podiatrist: “Time wounds all heels.”
- Proctologist: “To expedite your visit please back in."
- Gynecologist: “Dr. Jones, at your cervix."
- Butcher: "Pleased to meat you."
- Funeral Director: “Drive carefully. We’ll wait..”
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..."eat lots of soup."
Autumn is the beginning of soup season! As the weather gets colder, more warming foods are desirable. Nourishing root vegetables are a perfect choice for soup and stews.
In addition, spicy and pungent foods help keep your mucus membranes healthy by breaking up congestion and stimulating digestion.
Some everyday herbs that help boost the immune system are garlic, ginger, and cayenne, all of which go great in soups, stews and chili!
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Now, you can conveniently schedule your initial appointment with Acupuncture Associates online. Just click on the link above!
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Did they celebrate Halloween in ancient China? This proverb makes you wonder...
Do not remove a fly from your friend's forehead with a hatchet. ~ Chinese Proverb
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Find us by clicking on the buttons below:
Acupuncture Associates
4032 Masonboro Loop Rd
Suite 102
Wilmington,NC 28409
910-798-8181
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