What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine originated in China more than 2,000 years ago and are now widely accepted in the United States. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 100 diseases can be treated effectively with acupuncture alone.

What is acupuncture?
After a patient has been diagnosed through the TCM methodology, a set of acupuncture points is prescribed for treatment. Hair-thin, disposable acupuncture needles are inserted to balance the energy flow of the patient. When the needles are inserted, the patient may temporarily feel a slight pinch, minor tingling, or other sensations. With the needles in place, the patient will rest between 20 and 40 minutes. Patients describe their acupuncture treatment as soothing, relaxing, and grounding. Medical research has found that correctly inserted needles cause our body to release endorphins which function as painkillers and anti-inflammatory agents.

What are Chinese herbs?
Herbs are natural products without any synthetic ingredients. Many Chinese herbal formulas have been tried, tested, and documented over thousands of years. A well-designed herbal formula is specifically created for each patient's individual conditions and needs. These formulas can efficiently treat diseases, as well as serve as a prevention plan. Patients are asked to boil the herbs at home into a tea or can also be given herbs in granule form which dissolves in water.

Is TCM safe? Are there any side effects?
Our clean needle procedures strictly follow Western medical standards and only disposable needles are used. Herbal formulas are created with top-quality herbs meeting FDA requirements. In the hands of professionals with ethical and moral standards, TCM is safe without side effects. It has more than 2,000 years of recorded empirical studies to draw upon to assist you and your health concerns.

Any acupuncture precautions?
Do not have acupuncture when you are hungry or very tired. Do not change your body positions during an acupuncture session. Empty your bladder before an acupuncture session. After an acupuncture session, try to relax for the day.

How do I prepare an herbal decoction?
For an average formula, soak herbs in about 3 cups of water for at least 1/2 hour. Bring it to boil, and then simmer it down to 1 cup. Pour out the decoction, add 2 more cups of water, and bring to boil then simmer it down to 1 cup again. Mix the 2 cups of decoction and divide it into 2 cups again. Drink 1 cup before meal, twice a day.

How do I take an herbal formula in granule?
If you take it in capsules, just use water to swallow it before meal. You may also take the granule directly by mixing just enough water, and swallow it.

TCM Contraindications?
In general, TCM does not recommend anything raw, cold, or overly spicy, nor any strong tasting food for a prolonged period.
Do not eat radish before or after taking any tonifying formula or herbs such as Jinsen; do not take any tonifying formula or herbs while having a cold. Follow any special instructions from your practitioners.

TCM Info:
Infertility Background Study
Preparing The Human Placenta
Patient Evaluation Form

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