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Herbal Medicine

Fall Allergies? I can help you!

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Using a combination of proven acupuncture protocols and a great herbal product called Natural D-Hist from Orthomolecular Products we have found that we can greatly reduce people’s misery with fall allergies.

Every fall I find my patients suffering greatly because of the blooming flower like rag weed, in addition to the leaves that are falling and spreading mold spores, all on top of the dust, chemicals, and general junk that is blowing up off the ground when the farmers take the crops out of the field. It has been so dry here without rain for a month and the air is full of dust.

All of this irritates our eyes, our noses, makes our noses run, makes us sneeze, and makes us TIRED.

Acupuncture works to reduce your sensitivity to allergens, reduce your histamine production, and lower the toxins in your system.

Natural D-Hist contains Quercitin, a natural anti-histaminic, as well as stinging nettles, a classical herb for allergies, and a couple of other ingredients that lower your production of histamines in response to common allergens and make you feel A LOT BETTER!

Call us now to order Natural D-Hist and Schedule Acupuncture for Yourself!
319-341-0031
Sneezing woman with kleenex

Seasonal Allergy Solutions

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Acupuncture of Iowa Iowa City Blogs header foodEvery blooming thing is blooming right now. In Iowa we are having perfect weather and the increase in biomass daily is awesome. And nature is in the mood for reproduction. So we have pollen. Pollen and more pollen. And allergies.

In our clinic we are using a group of products that are proving to be very helpful for allergies and here they are:

Natural D-Hist from Orthomolecular products. Take 2 twice daily for basic prevention. You can take more or less as needed. It containes quercitin, stinging nettles and Vitamin C, along with N-acetyl cysteine to support the liver.

Rootology Breathe Free, nasal, sinus, eye health.  This is an american “remake” of an old standard Chinese herb formula called Bi Yan Pian (open up stuffy nose pills, I used to call it). It contains magnolia flower, xanthium fruit, platycodon root, angelica sinensis root (the one for noses), forsythia fruit, cinnamon twig, schizonepeta stem, ledebouriella root, schizandra fruit, phellodendron bark, and licorice root to harmonize them all. This formula has the property of clearing “wind”, opening the nasal orifice, helping with sinus pain, supporting the lungs, anti-inflammatory and a little anti-viral support, and immune support. You can take this one as needed, two pills when you need them, or take two 1, 2, 3, or 4 times daily. It is safe to use alongside claritin or any other kind of OTC allergy medicine. It is safe for kids and really works.

The last thing to mention is anti-oxidants like Vitamin C, Selenium, Vitamin E and so on. These helpful nutrients assist your liver in getting rid of toxins that might be adding to the burden on your immune system and making you more allergy prone. You can get these types of nutrients from an anti-oxidant blend like Resvoxitrol or a good multivitamin like Alpha Base from Orthomolecular Products.

Call us for more information and a video consultation on how you can get help for your allergies.

319-41-0031 Acupuncture of Iowa

Misinformation spread by NBC about Chinese Herbal medicine treatment for COVID-19

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Please enjoy this response, written by a highly qualified and experienced American practitioner of Chinese herbal medicine, to the information put out by NBC about the dangers of using Chinese medicine to treat COVID-19. The opinions shared by NBC are those of one person who has spent the majority of his career shooting down Traditional Chinese Medicine. In fact, enormous amounts of research and experience in China over the past few months are showing that the majority of patients are greatly helped in their recovery from this pandemic, by the use of the state-sanctioned herb treatment that in many cases is delivered to their homes. My associate has done a beautiful job of responding to each of Dr Ernst’s points below.

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/china-encouraging-herbal-remedies-treat-covid-19-scientists-warn-against-n1173041

I recently read the above-referenced article regarding the use of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and COVID-19. The unfortunate conclusions and one-sidedness of the article have led me to speak out on the ignorance surrounding Chinese Herbal Medicine. The article states that “scientists warn against the use” and that they (Chinese herbs) could be harmful and “pose both direct and indirect risks to patients”, quoted by Dr. Edzard Ernst, a professor emeritus of complementary medicine at the United Kingdom’s University of Exeter. He goes on to state that “TCM mixtures can be toxic, contaminated or adulterated with prescription drugs; they can also interact with prescription drugs,” Ernst said.

First, TCM mixtures should be prescribed only by a licensed TCM practitioner that has spent years learning the medicine. Chinese herbal medicine in granular form is pharmaceutical grade and is tested for adulterants, chemicals, pesticides, and thin-layer chromatography is used to ascertain the correct genus and species of the plant. His argument that Chinese Medicine can be contaminated and or adulterated and that the entire system of medicine should not be used is like saying that because Zantac has recently been pulled off the shelves because it contained NDMA that no one should ever use pharmaceuticals because they can be adulterated.

He also claims that TCM mixtures can be toxic. Yes, a few herbs have some level of toxicity, however, over the 3000-year history of the medicine, the way the herb is prepared and the amount that is given within the formula negates the toxicity and increases the safety of the herb. For example, the herb pinellia (ban xia in pinyin) is toxic when harvested but when prepared with ginger, the toxicity level is negated. Pinellia is sold in the prepared form only, so there is no chance of ever consuming it raw. We have specific guidelines about dosage to ensure safety of the herbs prescribed. Many of our herbs are considered foods, like Reishi mushrooms, goji berries, and longnan fruit. These are incredibly gentle and safe. Anything taken beyond a prescribed dose can be toxic. If you drink too much water, it can actually kill you. If you eat too many carrots, you will turn orange from excess beta-carotene (called carotenemia). In addition, many prescription drugs can be considered toxic, however, they are prescribed because the benefits of the medicine are thought to outweigh the side-effects.

Dr. Ernst goes on to say, “It can also give patients a false sense of security, leading them to neglect proven medications or therapies.” First of all, there are NO proven therapies for COVID-19 right now. If Chinese Medicine can help to bring a fever down, clear some of the glue-like phlegm from the lungs and help the patients recover quicker, than how is this a “false sense of security”? No one is saying to neglect Western Medicine. If a patient is turned away from the hospital saying they aren’t sick enough to be admitted, then what? A telemedicine consult with a licensed practitioner that can prescribe herbal medicine can open up valuable options for many in need.  And if TCM can be used in the hospitals (like they are in China) alongside other as of yet unproven therapies, then why wouldn’t we welcome it as another tool in our armory to fight this and save lives? As long as the practitioner is a licensed herbalist (Dipl. OM, or Dipl. CH) they should be working alongside hospitals to prescribe the correct formulas to the individual patients.

The article goes on to quote, “The lack of detail about the remedies contributes to doubts over their efficacy”, Dan Larhammar, a molecular cell biologist and president of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, said in a phone interview. Mr. Larhammar is referencing the pre-packaged herbal pills that are being produced for the masses. TCM practitioners in China developed these specific COVID remedies (such as jinhua qinggan capsules, lianhua qingwen capsules)  because there are not enough TCM practitioners around the world to prescribe custom formulas for the swaths of people in need of such medicinals. Also, there is a shortage of specific herbs that seem to be effective against this virus which makes it more difficult for the private TCM practitioners to prescribe on a large scale. Do I agree with the use of a capsule that could be used to treat everyone? Not really. Chinese medicine is based on treating the individual. The Chinese found a formula that would treat the “typical” symptoms of COVID, although true practice does not work that way. And if the ingredients aren’t listed, then I would be hesitant to trust it as well.

“Recent reports in the Japanese journal BioScience Trends and the Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine support the various COVID-19 traditional treatments, but Larhammar said these studies and others like them lack scientific rigor — not having adequate sample sizes, using vague terms and nonpharmacological concepts or testing too many combinations of herbs to parse out their specific effects.”

The “scientific rigor” that is missing from Chinese herbal medicine treatment is due to a few important factors. One, herbs are combined for specific reasons. The herbs work together within a formula and interact with each other on a molecular level to have a specific therapeutic outcome. By researching each individual component rather than seeking the holistic effect of the formula together is a reductionist view that is typical of the pharmaceutical industry. The complex interactions that occur with combining Chinese medicinals have been studied over thousands of years. Secondly, the lack of “scientific rigor” is due to the inherent nature of our individualized medicine. If there are 20 people that have COVID-19, there would likely be 20 different formulas given to each one of them (with some overlap of specific herbs found to be useful with this virus). This makes it difficult for TCM to be shoe-horned into the Western model of placebo-controlled, double-blinded studies. There are no “one-size fits all” remedies. And to neglect its benefits, even as an augment to Western medicine in treating COVID-19, is short-sighted. Yes, TCM terminology and its “vague terms” are not often understood by Western researchers, however, this is because the ancient medicine used terms from the natural world to describe physiologic events occurring in the body. Just because it does not conform to the standards of modern medicine, it does not mean that it is inferior.

“‘It would be fine if the method reduced the symptoms a little bit, and more the better, of course, but if that makes the person take more risks, then we are in deep trouble,’ Larhammar of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences said. People with the virus may prematurely resume interacting with others thinking they’re no longer infectious by taking traditional Chinese medicine, he explained. Others may take it thinking it prevents them from getting the disease, putting themselves and others at risk.”

If people improve with or without TCM, this argument is completely illogical. If they have the virus and they get better, they should continue with their quarantine for 14 days like everyone else that has a confirmed case. If TCM helps them, it could prevent them from going into the hospital and decrease the risk of their symptoms getting worse and a potential need for a mechanical ventilator, which is in short supply. Again, let’s compare. If a physician prescribes medicine to fight COVID, and the patient feels better and decides to venture out before the 14-day quarantine, the argument to not treat with physician-prescribed medicine because it will give patients a false sense of security now seems quite laughable.

I hope this writing has cleared up some of the misconceptions surrounding an extraordinary medicine. The hospitals in WuHan and the surrounding areas have been forthright with the global Chinese Medicine community by disseminating information to TCM practitioners in how to best treat COVID-19. The amazing community of TCM herbalists across America stands poised and ready to help those in need by doing telemedicine herbal consults. I personally have offered my services to the state of NJ to fight alongside the doctors and nurses in local hospitals to bring TCM to help those in need. I believe that we should all work together to save as many patients as we can using every single tool available. Join me in the embrace of old and new, traditional and modern, and together we can overcome and heal the globe.

Sincerely,

Candace Jania, L.Ac., Dipl. O.M.
https://njacucenter.com/practitioners/

Telemedicine Available for Chinese Herb Treatment

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Acupuncture of Iowa Iowa City Q and A header

Telemedicine  available now for Chinese herb treatment of infections.

For new and existing patients we are immediately offering telemedicine video conferences for you to discuss your health concerns with Laura Christensen LAc over a secure, HIPPA compliant connection.

Just go to our Patient Tools tab on our website, click “create appointment” and you will either open your patient account or create one. Then scroll to the bottom of the list of services and choose Telemedicine consult 60 min. If you are coming back for a check-in, choose either 30 minute or 15 minute for your time. Then the available appointments will be highlighted in our calendar. You will receive an email reminder about an hour before your video call.

Then be sure your computer is on, you have either headset with mic, or a set of earbuds with mic, and computer camera ready to go. You can test those using the settings function on your computer. Also be sure you have a fast internet connection. If not fast enough, the system will invite you to convert to just an audio session. We would prefer to collect your fee by credit card at the beginning of the session and we have a virtual terminal to enter this charge without swiping your card. Prepare for your meeting also by having a list of what you’d like to address, and a way to take notes during the conversation.

If you are sick, Laura will need a good image of your tongue in order to prescribe the proper chinese herb formula. She is up to date in studying these formulas and her pharmacy is prepared to prescribe specialized ones based on the recent experiences of the Chinese doctors in China.

Laura will either guide you to where to purchase the appropriate herb formula, or will compound it in her pharmacy and you can pick it up at the office. Long distance patients cannot be well served with this system, as the formula could change every day or so and immediately modifying the prescription could be necessary.

We can also recommend nutritional supplements that will support your immune system or help you recover from the acute stage of a viral infection. We can also support those suffering from allergies at this time of year in the US.

Watch this space for changes in our telemedicine news.

Call 319-341-0031. We look very much forward to serving you.

Flu Season is Here

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Acupuncture of Iowa Iowa City outside sign

Yes, flu season is here. You may not want to have a flu shot but there ARE things you can do at the first sign of getting sick. We have a whole protocol to help you manage symptoms, get better faster, and strengthen your immune system to prevent getting sick. Chinese herbs can be personalized for your exact condition. Supplements can assist with your immune system. Professional Chinese herbalist Laura Christensen is trained to help you!

Call for an appointment today and Laura can make a personalized plan for you. 319-341-0031

Acupuncture Beats Drug For Herniated Disc Relief

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Acupuncture is effective for lumbar disc herniation treatment. A recent study conducted at Xinzheng Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital in Henan, China found that a combination of acupuncture and a modified Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang herbal formula relieves pain and improves quality of life for patients with lumbar disc herniation. This study compared treatments of acupuncture and herbal medicine with the anti-inflammatory pharmaceutical celecoxib. Acupuncture patients experienced greater relief from pain and improvement in quality of life with a 90.69% total effective rate and no reported adverse effects. [1] In comparison, the control group experienced an 81.40% total effective rate.

Treatment was administered daily for a total of 14 days.

Results
The results of this study show that acupuncture and herbal medicine enhance the efficiency of traditional anti-inflammatory drugs like celecoxib. This treatment is not only effective, but is reported as safe as well. For more information, contact your licensed acupuncturist.

 

Reference:
[1] Ma Zhenlin (2019) “Observation on the Effect of Acupuncture Combined with Modified Shen Tong
Zhu Yu Decoction in the Treatment of Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Herniation” Asia -Pacific Traditional Medicine Vol.15 (2) pp.129-141.

 

Acquired from HealthCMi

Acupuncture Plus Herbs Alleviate Pediatric Insomnia

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Acupuncture and herbs improve sleep for children with intractable insomnia. Kaifeng Pediatric Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine researchers find that the An Hun herbal formula combined with acupuncture applied to a single acupoint is effective for the relief of intractable pediatric insomnia. In a randomized controlled investigation, a total of 104 children were recruited for the study and were randomly assigned to a treatment group or a control group. The cured, markedly effective, and effective scores were added together to determine the total effective rate. In the acupuncture plus herbs treatment group, there were 20 cured, 25 markedly effective, 4 effective, and 3 ineffective cases, yielding a total effective rate of 94.2%. [1]

 

Acupuncture and Herbs
Participants in both groups were offered guidance in the areas of sleep hygiene, family sleep management, and diet. In addition, participants in the treatment group were prescribed the An Hun herbal formula.

Acupuncture was administered to a single acupoint: Yintang.

The results of this study indicate that a combined protocol of acupuncture and herbs provide effective relief from intractable insomnia in children. The use of a single acupoint proved effective, making this treatment suitable for young children that may have difficulty sitting still.

Retrieved from HealthCMi

Reference:
1. Zhu Bao (2018) “Clinical research on acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese medicine for children with intractable sleep disorders” Chinese Integrative Medicine Pediatrics Vol. 10 (5) pp. 400-403.

Acupuncture Plus Herbs Beat Ibuprofen For Menstrual Pain

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Acupuncture Plus Herbs Beat Ibuprofen For Menstrual Pain

 

Acupuncture and herbs outperform ibuprofen for menstrual pain relief. Jiangxi Maternal Health Hospital researchers conducted a controlled clinical trial comparing the effects of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine versus ibuprofen for the relief of menstrual related abdominal and lumbosacral pain. Acupuncture combined with Chinese herbal medicine produced a 91.7% total effective rate. Herbal medicine monotherapy produced an 86.7% total effective rate. Ibuprofen monotherapy produced a 73.3% total effective rate. The findings indicate that acupuncture combined with Chinese herbal medicine is more effective than ibuprofen for the relief of dysmenorrhea. [1]

Dysmenorrhea
Diagnostic criteria for the study were abdominal or lumbosacral pain before, during, or after menstruation. Pain was described as dull, distending, or stabbing in nature, and was accompanied by nausea, vomiting, cold limbs, or cold sweats. The symptoms were cyclic in nature and, in some cases, so severe that they led to fainting.

The women were required to be ages 15–35 years, have a regular menstrual cycle lasting 25–34 days, and have received no related treatment in the month prior to the study. All women were approved by the hospital ethics committee and gave voluntary, informed consent to participate.

Exclusion criteria included secondary dysmenorrhea due to uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), recent analgesic treatment, damaged skin at acupoint sites, concurrent heart, liver, kidney, or hematologic diseases, psychiatric disorders, pregnancy, or lactation. Women having previously given birth were also excluded, as were those currently taking part in other clinical trials.

Outcomes
The women were asked to rate their menstrual pain using the numeric rating scale (NRS) and were given a dysmenorrhea severity score according to official Chinese medicine gynecology research guidelines. In the acupuncture plus herbs treatment group, there were 44 cured, 11 effective, and 5 ineffective cases, yielding a total effective rate of 91.7%. In control group 1, there were 39 cured, 13 effective, and 8 ineffective cases, yielding a total effective rate of 86.7%. In control group 2, there were 36 cured, 8 effective, and 16 ineffective cases, yielding a total effective rate of 73.3%. The results indicate significantly greater improvements in the acupuncture plus herbs treatment group compared with the two controls (p<0.05).

The results of this study indicate that the combination of acupuncture and herbs significantly reduces the severity of dysmenorrhea and performs better than ibuprofen or herbal medicine alone. The researchers determined that the acupuncture and herbal medicine treatment is safe and is not associated with adverse effects.

 

Reference
1. Peng Yao (2018) “Clinical Study on the Treatment of Primary Dysmenorrhea with Acupuncture Combined with Huo Xue Hua Yu Decoction” Jiangxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Vol.49 (430) pp.53-55.

Source: HealthCMi

Acupuncture and Herbs Stop Shingles Pain, Outperforms Drugs

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Acupuncture and Herbs Stop Shingles Pain, Outperforms Drugs

 

Acupuncture and herbs prove effective for the treatment of shingles. Researchers from three independent studies conclude that acupuncture and herbal medicine significantly relieve rashes and pain associated with the herpes zoster virus (shingles). Importantly, acupuncture and herbal medicine outperformed antiviral and anti-inflammatory medications, indicating that usual care protocols are suboptimal without inclusion of acupuncture and herbal medicine.

The shingles viral infection is characterized by painful blisters, usually located in a single strip on either side of the trunk, neck, or face. Even once the blisters have subsided, patients can be left with severe neuralgia (nerve pain), which may last for several weeks or months. According to Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) principles, this condition usually falls into the category of either excess liver fire, liver and gallbladder damp heat, or spleen deficiency with accumulated pathogenic dampness. Rashes associated with shingles are sometimes referred to as “snake string sores” in TCM, reflecting the nature of their physical presentation.

 

People’s Hospital
The first study we will look at today was conducted by researchers at the People’s Hospital of Shenyang Economic and Technological Development Zone. [i] A total of 88 patients with a clinical diagnosis of a herpes zoster infection were recruited and randomly assigned to an acupuncture and herbal medicine observation group or a drug control group (including anti-inflammatory and antiviral medications).

The acupuncture and herbal medicine group produced significantly greater patient outcomes. This includes a higher cure rate, a higher overall effective rate, and a lower failure rate. The results indicate that standard procedures to alleviate shingles in hospital and outpatient settings absent acupuncture and herbs are definitively not the most effective means to provide relief to patients.

The observation group comprised 20 male and 24 female participants with a mean age of 43.6 years. Their mean duration of disease was 3.4 days. The control group comprised 18 male and 26 female participants, with a mean age of 42.8 years. The mean duration of disease in this group was 3.6 days. There were no statistically significant differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups at the outset of the investigation.

 

Treatment Procedures
The control group was treated with conventional drug therapy including:

  • Acyclovir (200mg, three times a day)
  • Vitamin B1 (10mg, three times a day)
  • Ibuprofen slow release capsules (300mg daily)
  • Acyclovir topical ointment

The observation group was treated with a modified version of the herbal formula Long Dan Xie Gan Tang containing the following herbs:

  • Sheng Di 30g
  • Che Qian Zi 30g
  • Ban Lan Gen 30g
  • Huang Qin 15g
  • Chi Shao 15g
  • Zhi Zi 15g
  • Da Qing Ye 15g
  • Long Dan Cao 12g
  • Ze Xie 12g
  • Chai Hu 10g
  • Dang Gui 10g

Modifications

  • For patients suffering from concurrent constipation, Da Huang (10g) was added to the formula.
  • For patients with symptoms of exuberant heat, Sheng Shi Gao (30g), Zhi Mu (15g), and Mu Dan Pi (15g) were added.
  • For patients with pus-filled blisters, Pu Gong Ying (30g) was added.
  • For patients with severe pain, Zhi Ru Xiang (10g) and Zhi Mo Yao (10g) were added.

The herbs were decocted in water and one dose was taken daily, divided into two portions for morning and evening consumption. The patients in the observation group were also treated with acupuncture at the following acupoints:

  • Huatuojiaji (MBW35)
  • Zhigou (TB6)
  • Yanglingquan (GB34)
  • Yinlingquan (SP9)

Acupuncture was also administered locally in the area of herpetic rashes. Needles were inserted into the spaces between blisters, approximately 1.5 cun apart. The needles were manipulated slightly then withdrawn immediately, and the puncture was not sealed with cotton. The incidental drawing of a small drop of blood was considered a beneficial effect. The affected area was also warmed with a moxa cigar. Treatment was administered once daily. Both groups underwent treatment for a total of ten days, with an initial assessment of rashes after five days.

 

Clinical Outcomes
Patients with a complete resolution of rashes and clinical symptoms (including pain) were classified as cured. In patients with at least a 30% improvement in rashes and pain reduction, the treatment was classified as effective. In patients showing less than 30% improvement in rashes and no change or worsening of pain, the treatment was classified as ineffective.

In the drug control group, 15 patients were cured, 21 cases were classified as effective, and 8 cases were classified as ineffective, yielding a total effective rate of 81.8%. In the acupuncture and herbal medicine observation group, 25 patients were cured, 18 cases were classified as effective, and one case was classified as ineffective, yielding a total effective rate of 97.7%.

A combination of acupuncture and herbal medicine has been used for the treatment of shingles for over 1,000 years. This modern study confirms the efficaciousness of a common TCM protocol for the treatment of herpes zoster. A rethinking of usual care standards seems appropriate based on the findings. At the Healthcare Medicine Institute (HealthCMi), we examine traditional acupuncture continuing education standards and repeatedly find that an integrative medicine model for the treatment of shingles is superior to drug monotherapy. Let’s take a look at the second study in our review of shingles treatments.

 

Changjizhou and Jimusa’erxian TCM Hospital
The second study conducted by researchers at the Changjizhou and Jimusa’erxian TCM Hospital (department of acupuncture and moxibustion) determined that acupuncture and herbal medicine are effective for the treatment of shingles. [ii] For this study, a total of 40 patients were recruited and randomly assigned to either an observation or control group.

The observation group was comprised of 12 male and 8 female participants, ages 18–63 years (mean age 35.5 years). Their duration of disease was 1–10 days (mean duration 5.5 days) at the outset. The control group was comprised of 13 male and 7 female participants, ages 18–65 years (mean age 36.5 years). Their duration of disease was 1–8 days (mean duration 4.5 days). There were no statistically significant differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups at the outset of the investigation.

 

Treatment Procedures
Both groups were treated with herbal decoctions according to their TCM differential diagnoses. Patients diagnosed with excessive heat in the liver channel were prescribed a version of Qing Re Zhi Tong Tang containing the following herbs:

  • Lian Qiao 15g
  • Jin Yin Hua 15g
  • Huang Qin 10g
  • Zhi Zi 10g
  • Huang Lian 10g
  • Long Dan Cao 5g
  • Gan Cao 5g
  • Da Qing Ye 25g
  • Ling Ci Shi 25g

Patients diagnosed with spleen deficiency with accumulation of pathogenic dampness were prescribed a version of Chu Shi Wei Ling Tang containing the following ingredients:

  • Cang Zhu 10g
  • Chen Pi 10g
  • Shao Bai Zhu 10g
  • Che Qian Zi 15g
  • Ze Xie 15g
  • Fu Ling 15g
  • Jin Yin Hua 15g
  • Long Dan Cao 5g
  • Ling Ci Shi 25g

Both decoctions were taken as a daily dose for a total of 21 days. Patients in the observation group also received acupuncture in the area affected by the herpetic rash. Following standard disinfection, 3–6 needles were inserted surrounding the rash at a distance of approximately 0.5–1cm. The needles were inserted transversely to a depth of 20–50mm, angled towards the midpoint of the rash. The needles were manipulated using a balanced reinforcing-reducing method and were retained for 30 minutes. Treatment was administered daily for 14 days.

 

Clinical Outcomes
For patients whose rash and clinical symptoms fully resolved, treatment was classified as markedly effective. For those whose rash improved by more than 70% and experienced some reduction in pain, treatment was classified as effective. For those whose rash improved by less than 30% and experienced no reduction in pain, treatment was classified as ineffective.

In the control group, there were 10 markedly effective, 6 effective, and 4 ineffective cases, yielding a total effective rate of 80%. In the observation group, there were 15 markedly effective, 4 effective, and one ineffective cases, yielding a total effective rate of 95%.

The patients also rated their pain using a visual analog scale (VAS). VAS scores of 7–10 indicated severe, unbearable pain. Scores of 4–6 indicated severe but tolerable pain, 1–3 indicated mild pain, and scores of 0 indicated a complete absence of pain. At the beginning of the study, mean VAS scores in the control group and observation group were 7.36 and 7.25 respectively. By the end of the study, scores decreased significantly to 4.20 and 2.04 respectively, with significantly greater improvements in the observation group. The results indicate that a combination of acupuncture and herbs is more effective than using only herbal medicine.

 

Yungang Community Sanitation Service Center
The final study we will examine was conducted by researchers at the Chinese medicine and acupuncture department of the Yungang Community Sanitation Service Center in Beijing. [iii] A total of 36 herpes zoster patients were recruited for the study and were treated with acupuncture, herbs, and cupping therapy. The study group was comprised of 8 male and 28 female patients, ages 25–78 years. Of these participants, 8 had a disease duration of less than 2 days, 11 had a disease duration of 2–14 days, and the remaining 17 participants had a disease duration of over 14 days at the outset of the study.

 

Treatment Procedure
All patients were treated with a version of Long Dan Xie Tang and Wu Wei Xiao Du Yin. The ingredients were as follows:

  • Sheng Di 20g
  • Hei Shan Zhi 15g
  • Long Dan Cao 10g
  • Huang Bai 10g
  • Chai Hu 10g
  • Huang Qin 10g
  • Che Qian Zi 10g
  • Ze Xie 10g
  • Mu Tong 10g
  • Sheng Gan Cao 10g
  • Jin Yin Hua 10g
  • Lian Qiao 10g
  • Ye Ju Hua 10g
  • Zi Hua Di Ding 10g
  • Pu Gong Ying 10g

Modifications

  • For patients suffering from concurrent constipation, Da Huang (10g) and Lai Fu Zi (10g) were added to the formula.
  • For patients with symptoms of excessive heat, Huang Lian (10g) was added.
  • For patients with severe pain, Chuan Lian Zi (10g) and Yuan Hu (10g) were added.

The herbs were decocted in water on a daily basis and were subsequently divided into three portions to be taken morning, noon, and evening. Acupuncture was administered in the area of the herpetic rashes. Needles were inserted between blisters and were stimulated using a reducing method to elicit a distending pain in the region. Needles were retained for 30 minutes.

Modifications

  • For patients whose symptoms originated in the area of the limbs, Quchi (LI11), Taichong (LV3), and Chezi (LU5) were added.
  • For those whose symptoms originated on the back of the torso, Huatuojiaji (MBW35) and Hegu (LI4) were added.
  • For those with a TCM diagnosis of liver fire blazing, Taichong (LV3), Chize (LU5), and Zhigou (TB6) were added.
  • For those with a TCM diagnosis of damp-heat in the Stomach and Spleen, Xuehai (SP10) and Sanyinjiao (SP6) were added.
  • For those with a TCM diagnosis of qi stagnation and blood stasis, Geshu (BL17) was added.

Needles at Huatuojiaji points were inserted perpendicularly to a depth of 0.7–0.8mm. The needles were manipulated using a balanced reinforcing-reducing method, and after the arrival of deqi, were retained for 20 minutes. Needles at the remaining acupoints were inserted and manipulated using a lifting, thrusting, and rotating reducing technique. These needles were also retained for 20 minutes. Treatment was administered daily for a total of ten days.

Cupping therapy was administered on every third day of the treatment period. A three-edged needle was used to puncture the skin surrounding the herpetic blisters. For those with a relatively small area affected by the rash, a single puncture was made. For those with a larger rash, the punctures were made approximately 3–5cm apart. A cup was then placed over the puncture(s) and were retained for 10 minutes.

 

Clinical Outcomes
Patients with a complete resolution of both rashes and associated pain were classified as recovered. For patients whose symptoms resolved almost completely, the treatment was classified as markedly effective. For patients whose symptoms partially resolved, the treatment was classified as effective. For patients whose symptoms did not improve or worsened, the treatment was classified as ineffective.

For patients whose symptoms had been present for less than two days, all 8 were fully recovered, yielding a 100% effective rate. Among those whose symptoms had been present for 2–14 days, 5 were classified as recovered and 2 were classified as markedly effective, yielding a total effective rate of 63.6%. For those whose symptoms had been present for over 14 days, one was classified as recovered and one was classified as effective, yielding a total effective rate of 11.8%.

 

Results
The results of three independent studies indicate that acupuncture combined with herbal medicine is a highly effective treatment combination for rashes and pain associated with the herpes zoster virus. Additionally, treatment is significantly more effective the earlier it is administered. For more information, contact a local licensed acupuncturist to learn about treatment options in your area.

 

References
[i] Cao Bo (2018) “Clinical Study of Longdan Xiegan decoction Combined with Acupuncture and Moxibustion for Herpes Zoster” Guide of China Medicine Vol.16(25) pp. 174-175.
[ii] Zhang Qin, Ding Yujie (2018) “Study on the Effect of Dialectical Treatment with Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture on Clinical Symptoms of Herpes Zoster Neuralgia” Cardiovascular Disease Journal of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Vol.6(25) pp. 134.
[iii] Zhao Yun (2018) “Observation on the Effect of Combined Chinese Medicine and Cupping Method on 36 Patients with Herpes Zoster” Traditional Chinese Medicine Vol.16(16) pp.172-174.

Source: HealthCMi

Acupuncture Relief of Nasal Allergies Confirmed

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Acupuncture Relief Of Nasal Allergies Confirmed

 

Acupuncture soothes nasal allergy symptoms. Investigators at Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital conducted a meta-analysis of 30 independent clinical trials with a sample size of 2,602 allergic rhinitis patients. [1] The researchers (Tang et al.) conclude, “Acupuncture, either used alone or combined with other treatments such as moxibustion, herbal medicine, and western medicine, were proven to have both short and long-term clinical benefits to allergic rhinitis sufferers.” The following is a basic overview of common acupuncture points used for the treatment of allergic rhinitis across the multiple studies in the meta-analysis:

  • LI20 (Yingxiang
  • Yintang (extra)
  • LI4 (Hegu
  • ST36 (Zusanli)
  • EX-HN8 (Shangyingxiang, Bitong)

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is an inflammatory disorder of the nasal mucosa induced by allergen exposure that triggers IgE (immunoglobulin E) mediated inflammation. [2] In the USA, approximately 40–60 million people suffer from allergic rhinitis. [3] AR is clinically characterized by rhinorrhea (thin and primarily clear nasal discharge), sneezing, nasal itching, and nasal congestion. AR is also associated with decreased concentration and focus, irritability, sleep disturbances, and fatigue. This impacts the quality of life and reduces work productivity. In addition, there is a high risk of developing asthma for AR patients. [4] Common medications for the treatment of allergic rhinitis include intranasal corticosteroids, oral H1-antihistamines, and leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs). While effective, these medications often produce adverse effects and may be contraindicated during pregnancy and for children, the elderly, and patients with specific medical conditions. [5]

The following are clinical details of the meta-analysis. A total of 27 out of 30 studies made extensive use of the Yingxiang point. This point is anatomically located on the nasolabial groove, at the midpoint of the lateral border of the ala nasi. This acupuncture point is located on the hand Yangming large intestine meridian. It is also the crossing point of the stomach and the large intestine meridians. Needling this point smooths the flow of qi in the meridians and clears obstructions from the nasal orifice.

This point is traditionally indicated for Bi Yuan (nasal congestion), Bi Qiu (sniveling nose), and Bi Niu (nosebleed). According to Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, the lungs and large intestine have an interior-exterior relationship (i.e., the lungs and large intestine are functionally interconnected). As a result, diseases of the lungs can be treated by needling acupuncture points on either the lung meridian or the large intestine meridian.

A total of 23 studies document use of the Yintang point. This acupoint is located between the two medial ends of the eyebrows in the glabella. Yintang plays a key role in “opening the orifices and regulating the spirit.” Needling this point promotes qi and blood circulation of the head and also stabilizes the mind and spirit. A total of 17 studies used the Hegu point. Hegu is the Yuan-source point of the hand Yangming large intestine meridian. Needling this point disperses obstructions in the Yangming meridian and regulates the lung qi.

A total of 14 studies used Zusanli. Zusanli is the He-confluence point of the foot Yangming stomach meridian, which starts at the side of the nose. The stomach meridian of foot yangming primary channel begins at the side of the nose at Yingxiang (LI20) and then ascends to the root of the nose where it intersects with Jingming (BL1). Zusanli activates local qi and blood circulation and removes local obstructions affecting the meridians. Needling this point also regulates the stomach, intestines, and lungs for purposes of strengthening the internal organs related to allergic rhinitis. A total of 11 studies used Shangyingxiang (also known as Bitong). Needling this point promotes local qi and blood circulation and relieves nasal congestion. This acupoint is located near the upper end of the nasolabial groove, at the junction of the maxilla and the nasal cavity.

The researchers conclude that acupuncture provides both long and short term relief as a standalone therapy, in combination with other Chinese medicine treatment modalities, and in combination with medications. Other independent sources indicate that acupuncture is effective for the alleviation of allergic rhinitis. The National Institutes of Health (NIH, USA) website covering the topic of seasonal allergies and complementary medicine states, “There are data from some randomized controlled trials that suggests that acupuncture may improve some symptoms of allergic rhinitis, as well as quality of life.” The NIH website notes that a clinical practice guideline issued by the American Academy of Otolaryngology states, “Clinicians may offer acupuncture, or refer to a clinician who can offer acupuncture, for patients with allergic rhinitis who are interested in nonpharmacologic therapy.” [7]

The NIH website references a meta-analysis with a sample size of 2,365 allergic rhinitis patients, “compared with a control group, the acupuncture treatment group had a significant reduction in nasal symptom scores, medication scores, and serum IgE, and an increase in quality of life scores.” [8,9] In addition, the NIH website notes that “there are high-quality randomized controlled trials that demonstrate efficacy for acupuncture in the treatment of both seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis….” [10]

Scientific investigations confirm that acupuncture is a reasonable treatment option for patients with allergic rhinitis. To learn more, consult with your primary licensed acupuncturist or licensed acupuncturists in your area.

Notes
[1] Qu SH, Liu YX. Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Randomized Controlled Trial of Acupuncture for Allergic Rhinitis [J]. World Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, 2016,11(07):900-906+948.

[2] Varshney J, Varshney H. Allergic Rhinitis: an Overview [J]. Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2015 Jun; 67(2): 143–149.

[3] acaai.org/allergies/types/hay-fever-rhinitis

[4] Palma-Carlos AG1, Branco-Ferreira M, Palma-Carlos ML. Allergic rhinitis and asthma: more similarities than differences [J]. Allerg Immunol (Paris). 2001 Jun;33(6):237-41.

[5] ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0072670/

[6] Xia J, Peng D. Acupuncture Combined with Herbal Medicine for Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis and Its Effectiveness on Downregulating Ig E、TNF-α、IL-4 and IL-12 [J]. International Journal of Laboratory Medicine, 2018,39(03):374-377.

[7] nccih.nih.gov/health/providers/digest/allergies-science. documented 4-25-18.

[8] Ibid.

[9] Feng, Shaoyan, Miaomiao Han, Yunping Fan, Guangwei Yang, Zhenpeng Liao, Wei Liao, and Huabin Li. “Acupuncture for the treatment of allergic rhinitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” American journal of rhinology & allergy 29, no. 1 (2015): 57-62.

[10] Taw, Malcolm B., William D. Reddy, Folashade S. Omole, and Michael D. Seidman. “Acupuncture and allergic rhinitis.” Current opinion in otolaryngology & head and neck surgery 23, no. 3 (2015): 216-220. Authors: UCLA Center for East-West Medicine, UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA bIntegrative Healthcare Policy Consortium, Pinecrest Wellness Center cDepartment of Family Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine dDepartment of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Michigan.

Source: HealthCMi

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