Nov. 25th 2008
One of the lesser-known uses of Chinese medicine is for the treatment of dermatological disorders. In my practice, I have treated people for many skin conditions, including acne, warts, psoriasis, scars and poison ivy. Both acupuncture and Chinese herbs seem to be effective for these issues, although one type of medicine may be preferable in a specific case.
Here are several recent articles about the use of Chinese medicine for dermatology cases:
There is “moderate” evidence that gingko can treat vitiligo, without the need for phototherapy.
A Chinese study found that a combination of traditional herbal medicine was helpful in treating eczema in young people (ages unspecified).
Topical use of the indigo plant helped to heal psoriasis lesions in a Taiwanese study.
Nov. 18th 2008
A study from Thomas Jefferson University looked at almost 5,000 patients who had previously suffered a heart attack and had high cholesterol. All of the patients discontinued their cholesterol medication; half then received a placebo, while half received an extract of Chinese red rice.
Patients who used the red rice extract had fewer heart attacks and were less likely to die from their heart attacks than in the placebo group. Less of the patients in the red rice group needed to undergo procedures to have their arteries unblocked. They also had lower levels of LDL cholesterol and higher levels of HDL (the beneficial cholesterol).
Read a good summary of the findings at Reuters, or the study abstract here.
Researchers emphasized that the red rice extract was produced under carefully regulated conditions and is not the same as the products that can be found in health-food stores.
Nov. 11th 2008
There are huge amounts of evidence about the many health benefits of drinking green tea. Just in the past six months I’ve found three articles about different health conditions that may respond to green tea.
In May, a study found that the antioxidants in green tea may help protect the brain from the harmful effects of sleep apnea. A Greek study found that green tea can help to prevent heart disease by improving blood flow and relaxing the arteries. And just last week, a study was published showing that green tea may prevent or slow the development of type I diabetes.
In my opinion, one of the best parts about this information is that green tea is widely available to the average American. You don’t need a doctor’s prescription, and it’s all natural!
If you prefer black tea (which is the same plant as green tea, just processed differently), don’t despair– it is also high in antioxidants. See my blog article on black tea for type II diabetes.
Nov. 4th 2008
Our 2nd annual open house is Wednesday, November 5 from 4:00pm to 7:00pm. We are located in the Giguere’s building, 148 Main Street, Cherry Valley (Leicester) MA.
Free sample acupuncture treatments will take place in the lower level of the building. When you go through the main entrance, take a left and head down the stairs (stop for a quick free massage on your way). If you’ve never tried acupuncture before, now is a great opportunity to experience what it’s like. Bring your friends and family!
For more information, call (508) 892-8300. We hope you can join us!
