Monday, December 01, 2003

How to Worsen Asthma

It is now understood why asthma patients who use the most common types of inhalers often suffer from a rebound effect that makes their condition worse. Airway-opening inhalers, including albuterol, ventolin and salbutamol, appear to cause a biochemical reaction that exacerbates swelling in the body's airway. The swelling, in turn, can block airflow and make breathing more difficult.

Over the past two decades, a new generation of medications known as beta2-agonists, commonly found in inhalers, has let asthmatics breathe more easily by opening up their airways. But doctors have long known those patients can relapse if they don't use another kind of inhaler that reduces inflammation in the airway, which causes constriction in the first place. As the inflammation on the walls of the airway gets worse, the reliever inhalers fail to work properly as they become overwhelmed. It actually worsens the problem in the long term. The airway constriction can even last for weeks after a patient stops using the reliever inhalers.

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati examined genetically altered mice that were designed to have different levels of a receptor that works to keep the airway open and unblocked by swelling. The results of the study appear in the Aug. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation. The researchers report they discovered an interaction between chemicals that contributes to the growth of inflammation. In a separate development, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned users of three asthma drugs that those medications carry a small risk of a life-threatening asthma attack.

Drugs with salmeterol, a long-acting bronchodilator, were likelier to have a dangerous asthma episode. The affected drugs are sold under the names Serevent Inhalation Aerosol, Serevent Diskus and Advair Diskus, all of which are made by GlaxoSmithKline.

Chinese medicine is a wonderful alternative to western drugs for treating asthma, without side effects and life threatening risk’s.

Meridian Harmonics

A Cure for PMS

Premenstrual syndrome” (PMS) is the cyclic recurrence of a group of symptoms that peak 7 to 10 days before menstruation and disappear a few hours after the onset of the menstrual flow. This condition is characterized by multiple and diverse symptoms including, but not limited to: breast tenderness, transient weight gain, bloating, constipation, insomnia, acne, headache, pelvic pain, irritability, depression, mood swings, poor concentration, confusion, social withdrawal, impulsiveness and appetite changes. While many women experience mild symptoms of short duration, other women have more severe symptoms that last for many days and temporarily disturb their normal functioning.

PMS is due to unbalanced hormonal fluctuations. A mixture of correct diet, adequate exercise, and emotional clarity, along with acupuncture and Chinese medicinal herbs can correct imbalances and bring long-term relief.

Chinese medicine offers many tools to address premenstrual syndrome. Acupuncture removes energy blockages and in turn stabilizes hormonal fluctuations. It also provides deep relaxation that helps to calm the mind. Chinese herbs work together with acupuncture to regulate the flow of energy and substances in the body. Together they stimulate the body’s natural functions and encourage it to establish optimum balance.

Women do not have to accept and live with premenstrual syndrome. When the symptoms of PMS are reduced or eliminated, women feel more energetic -- physically, mentally, emotionally and creatively.

Meridian Harmonics

Wednesday, October 01, 2003

Green tea – the cancer blocker

Green tea's ability to fight cancer is even more potent and varied than scientists suspected, research suggests. Scientists already know that green tea contains anti-oxidants, which may have a protective effect against cancer.

But now they have discovered that chemicals in the tea also shut down a key molecule, which can play a significant role in the development of cancer. It's likely that the compounds in green tea act through many different pathways. The molecule, known as the aryl hydrocarbon (AH) receptor, has the ability to activate genes - but not always in a positive way. Tobacco smoke and dioxins, in particular, disrupt the functioning of the molecule and cause it to trigger potentially harmful gene activity.

The researchers, from Rochester University, found that two chemicals in green tea inhibit AH activity. Both chemicals are similar to compounds called flavonoids, which are found in broccoli, cabbage, grapes and red wine, and which are also known to help prevent cancer. Researcher Professor Thomas Gasiewicz said: "Green tea may work differently than we thought to exert its anti-cancer activity. "It's likely that the compounds in green tea act through many different pathways." The Rochester team showed that the chemicals shut down the AH receptor in cancerous mouse cells. Early results indicate the same is true in human cells. However, the scientists say that the results in the laboratory do not necessarily translate to everyday life as the crucial factor is how green tea is broken down inside the body. In addition, there are a lot of differences between various types of green tea. Dr Julie Sharp, a science information office at Cancer Research UK, said: "This research describes additional properties of green tea that may be beneficial but which have yet to be tested properly.

"The causes of cancer are complex and both diet and our genetic make-up act together to influence our risk of developing the disease. "Cancer Research UK is currently involved in a large-scale study of diet and health that is researching the eating habits of over half a million people in 10 European countries to try and help unravel this complexity." Research has also suggested that green tea may help to reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis and to lower cholesterol levels.

Meridian Harmonics

Flu & Cold Season – Prevention is the Key

In just a few weeks, the flu season will be here. Along with the common cold, allergies and the flu, Oriental medicine has a lot to offer patients who suffer from these disorders.

Most patients aren’t aware of the fact that acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine have been used for thousands of years to treat these conditions. In addition to the common cold and influenza, North Texas has its share of air pollution and environmental allergens. This can provide a tremendous degree of discomfort for those patients sensitive to these substances. Many patients report that their respiratory symptoms improve dramatically or are eliminated once they begin receiving regular treatments. At its core, Oriental medicine stimulates and boosts the immune system in order to minimize the affects of respiratory diseases. Regular wellness treatments have an cumulative effect, nurturing the defensive systems in the body. Patients are encouraged to make their wellness appointments early to ward off the attack of the flu season and minimize the effects of hayfever, pollution and seasonal allergies.

Meridian Harmonics

Friday, August 01, 2003

Ice Age Acupuncture!

In 1991, the scientific world was rocked by the discovery of Otzi, a 5,000-year-old mummified man found in the mountains along the border between Austria and Italy. Named after the Otz valley in which it was discovered, the mummy's body was remarkably well preserved, as were most of his clothing, tools and weapons. Scientists have examined the mummy's remains thoroughly, learning much about the everyday life of ancient Europeans. One of the most remarkable discoveries was a complicated system of bluish-black tattoos running along Otzi's back, right knee and left ankle.

Experts from three acupuncture societies then examined the locations of the tattoos. In their opinion, nine tattoos could be identified as being located directly on, or within six millimeters of, traditional acupuncture points. Two more were located on an acupuncture meridian. One tattoo was used as a local point. The remaining three tattoos were situated between 6-13mm from the closest acupuncture point. X-rays of the ice man's body revealed evidence of arthritis in the hip joints, knees, ankles and lumbar spine. Nine of the mummy's 15 tattoos are located on the urinary bladder meridian, a meridian commonly associated with treating back pain. In fact, one of the mummy's two cross-shaped tattoos is located near the left ankle on a point, which is considered by several texts as a master point for back pain. The fact that not randomly selected points, but rather corresponding groups of points were marked by tattoos, seems especially intriguing, the researchers noted.

From an acupuncturist's viewpoint, the combination of points selected represents a meaningful therapeutic regimen. It’s fascinating to see evidence that acupuncture was actually practiced in ancient civilizations.

Meridian Harmonics

Oriental Medicine – More Than Treating Pain

I am asked all the time exactly what conditions can be treated using Oriental Medicine. Often, patients are surprised to discover that most conditions treated by a western doctor are successfully treated with Oriental Medicine. Most patients equate Oriental Medicine with acupuncture. The fact is that OM involves many different modalities designed to correct imbalances and disharmonies manifesting as symptoms. Symptoms commonly seen in my clinic are all the female related disorders: menopausal, gynecological, menstruation, yeast infections, urinary tract infections, as well as others affecting both men and women: migraines, headaches, gastrointestinal disorders, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, allergies, emotional stress, depression, anxiety, acid reflux, hives, psoriasis, eczema, post stroke paralysis, seizures, epilepsy, arthritis, peripheral neuropathy, smoking cessation, weight loss and of course, pain, to name a few. Once a patient realizes OM has an 8000 year history, it really isn’t that surprising to see the many conditions treated using Oriental Medicine.

Meridian Harmonics

Sunday, June 01, 2003

The Summer Season

The summer season increases the opportunity for heat related disorders to develop or become aggravated. Heat affects many aspects of our bodies. Heat can enter the blood system creating symptoms such as: rashes, bloody or painful urination, coughing with blood streaked sputum, nose bleeds, vomiting blood, menstrual problems, intestinal disorders, uterine bleeding, acute febrile diseases, high fever, unconsciousness, delirium, swollen & sore throat, scrofula, subcutaneous nodules and gangrene of fingers or toes. Heat affects our internal organs. Heat entering the stomach may cause irritability, thirst, mouth sores, swollen painful gums, stomach and intestinal ulcers and headaches. Heat can also affect the Heart with symptoms of restlessness, melancholia and insomnia. The liver and gallbladder are especially prone to heat disorders. Typical symptoms are red swollen eyes, vaginal discharge, migraines, jaundice and malaria. Fortunately, Chinese medicine is highly effective in treating all types of heat disorders. In treating heat disorders, a variety of methods are useful including, diet and lifestyle adjustments, proper exercise, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicines. To ward off the effects of the summer heat, make your wellness appointment today.

Meridian Harmonics

Heart Psychophysiology

In Chinese Medicine, organ physiology is known as Zang-Fu. The organs are either Yin or Yang, nature. The Heart is considered one of the Yin organs. It shares the energetic level known as Shaoyin with another Yin organ, the Kidney.

Chinese Medicine recognizes the Heart as the Sovereign ruler of the Body-Mind-Spirit. It is considered to be the most important of all the internal organs. It stores the Shen or Spirit-Mind-Consciousness. It regulates the blood vessels, Blood circulation and the pulse. It is manifested on the tongue through speech and expresses itself on the face. It controls all the Yin and Yang organs.

The Heart is associated with the season of Summer and the Fire phase. Its climate is, therefore, Hot. It derives its influence from the south. The Heart is also associated with flourishing growth. The Heart is very sensitive to excessive Heat.

Disharmonies in the Heart or its meridian system may manifest in the following disorders: circulation, perspiration, over excitement, excessive dreams, sleeping problems, speech disorders, mental and emotional problems, and memory problems. All dreams are related to the Heart whether there is excess or lack of dreaming.

Like all the organs, imbalances within the Heart or its meridian system rarely occur alone. Other organ disharmonies can have a huge impact on the health of the Heart. Since the Kidney shares the Shaoyin level with the Heart, Kidney disharmonies can be reflected in the Heart. Within Five Element Theory, the Heart is said to be “generated” by the Liver and when in balance, will successfully “generate” the Spleen. Imbalances within the Liver or Spleen result in excessive stress on the Heart.

Many times patients complain of symptoms generally associated with a Heart disorder. In light of the physical, mental and emotional stress we are experiencing as a result of economic uncertainty, fear of what the future may hold, family problems and self destructive behavior, it is no wonder that many people today are experiencing dis – ease of the Heart.

Meridian Harmonics

Tuesday, April 01, 2003

The Spring Season

The Spring season is a volatile time. It is typically characterized by wind, rain, and oscillating temperature ranges. Because of this, we can be more susceptible to invasion by external pathogenic factors.

Chinese medicine recognizes these pathogenic factors as wind, dampness, heat, cold and dryness. In the Spring time the primary pathogenic factor is Wind. It can act alone or be accompanied by any of the others. When one’s defensive system is weakened or compromised, the result may be: upper respiratory tract infections, the common cold, influenza, bronchial asthma, pneumonia, acute bronchitis and allergic rhinitis.

These disorders can occur during any season but are prevalent during the Spring. Oriental medicine is very effective in treating and preventing these disorders. If treated improperly or too late the external pathogenic factors progress inward affecting the internal organs. When this occurs the disease process becomes more severe. The changing seasons are good times of the year for maintenance or tune-up treatments. Many patients take advantage of the changing seasons by seeking preventative treatment in order to boost their defensive and immune systems. Call today to schedule your tune-up appointment.

Meridian Harmonics

Ephedra , Ma Huang

The mass media has duped the American public. They have brainwashed most people to believe that Ephedra, known as Ma Huang, in Chinese, is a weight loss herb. In Chinese herbal pharmacology, ephedra belongs to a very important group of herbs for addressing such disorders as the common cold, influenza, asthma, and edema, to name a few. Nowhere in the ancient texts does it mention that ma huang should be used as a means to shed unnecessary weight. Its primary functions are to release pathogenic factors to the exterior, for early stage upper respiratory disorders. It achieves this by inducing perspiration.

Like all herbs, ma huang has its unique cautions and contraindications. It is a warm, acrid and bitter herb and is, therefore, contraindicated for people who have an underlying internal inflammatory condition or for those with hypertension, palpitations, spontaneous or nighttime sweating and insomnia.

Many people who struggle with weight problems concurrently have these disorders, as well. The reason for all the bad press over ma huang is due to the fact the diet drug industry has not properly educated consumers about the cautions of not only herbs but also mainstream western prescription and over-the-counter medications. It is extremely important not to self medicate yourself.

Before beginning any program that includes herbal medicine and/or prescription medications, consult with your healthcare provider on their cautions and contraindications for your unique constitutional and energetic profile. Doctors of Oriental Medicine are well trained in the proper use of herbal medicine as it relates to your particular disorder and can safely prescribe the correct herbal medicines to restore balance to your system and overall health. We are quickly approaching the Spring season. With it comes the incidental increase of upper respiratory diseases. In order to protect yourself during this changing season, make an appointment today for your Spring season wellness check-up and treatment.

Meridian Harmonics

Saturday, February 01, 2003

Allergies from a Oriental Medical Perspective

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, any disease can be the result of excessive or deficient energy within the body’s meridian and organ systems. Allergies and sensitivities are no different.

Every substance, natural and man-made, has a unique electromagnetic signature or profile. The human body is also comprised of electromagnetic energy. This is known as Qi. In the presence of a substance the body has only three responses: hyper-sensitivity, hypo-sensitivity or no response. This is true whether the substance is a food, a weed, a grass, a chemical, a pet, or whatever. The human body is constantly working to maintain balance in all of its systems. Its ability to do this is compromised, however, by overwork, emotional stress, poor diet, lack of sufficient sleep, etc.

If the body’s systems are imbalanced for an extended period of time, the immune system’s health also suffers. The effect of a substance on the body is directly related to the immune system and can be measured. This is called Bio Energetic Stress Testing. Meridian Harmonics uses FDA approved technology to determine excessive and deficient energy in the meridian systems of the body and thus a patient’s sensitivities. Once identified, the immune system can be reprogrammed to elicit no response to substances previously causing hyper or hypo sensitive symptoms. Additionally, modifying those lifestyle areas responsible for devitalizing the immune system will prevent the body from continually reacting to “allergic” substances. The result is a reduction or elimination in the episodes of allergic reactions and the number of medications needed to treat these symptoms.

Meridian Harmonics

Diseases of the New Millennium

Have you noticed how many people seem to have the following health problems: arthritis, bronchitis, cholecystitis, colitis, conjunctivitis, dermatitis, encephalitis, endometritis, gastritis, gastroenteritis, hepatitis, meningitis, phlebitis, prostatitis, rhinitis, thyroiditis, urethritis, vaginitis, vulvitis, etc… Notice that each of these has the common suffix itis. That is, they are all inflammatory diseases. Though not new, they seem to be the most commonly diagnosed diseases of internal medical doctors in recent years. Though the terminology is somewhat different, Chinese medicine has recognized these diseases for thousands of years. Inflammatory diseases are successfully treated using Chinese medicine.

It is no coincidence that the largest group of herbs in the Chinese herbal pharmacy is a group of herbs that addresses all the many types of inflammatory diseases. This is a very powerful group of herbs, with antibacterial and antiviral properties. They are, typically, cold and bitter, in nature. This is to facilitate the mechanism of draining excess heat, dampness and toxins from the body. The wonderful aspect of Chinese herbal medicine is that it is free of the many worrisome side effects that western prescription medications have. However, all herbs have contraindications and are not to be used for certain conditions. Unfortunately, many people tend to self diagnose and self medicate themselves. Unless one has specialized knowledge of herbal energetics, more harm than good can result.

Doctors of Chinese medicine are well trained in the proper use of herbs. When used correctly herbal medicines have an amazing ability to correct the imbalances that cause inflammation. This is due to the fact that, in addition to treating the acute problems, Oriental medical doctors also treat the underlying constitutional imbalances that prevent a patient from maintaining optimum wellness. To discuss a particular problem, call today to schedule a consultation appointment.

Meridian Harmonics