Treatments
Acupressure and Acupuncture
Acupressure and acupuncture points function like “pumping stations” along the energy (Qi) meridians in the human body. Treatment through pressure or needles helps restore the flow in blocked sections and regulates excess or insufficient pressure in the respective pathways. The meridians, which extend from the soles of the feet through the entire body up to the head, are divided into the five main organ systems, for which they play a crucial role in maintaining health.
These methods, along with herbal medicinal teas (or soups), have been the essential tools of Chinese medicine since ancient times. (Bone needles are among the earliest archaeological findings in China). A precisely applied treatment, tailored to the individual’s condition, has been proven to achieve phenomenal effects, whereas an incorrectly applied treatment may have little or no effect—but it is never harmful. The common issue of side effects in conventional school medicine does not exist here.
For children, the use of needles is not needed because their bodies are still so sensitive that careful acupressure is sufficient to achieve the desired effect.
Gua-Sha
“Gua-Sha” is a massage-like technique used to dissolve blockages and relieve cold or fever stagnation, which often accumulates around the spine and other meridian areas, particularly during colds. First, the back (or other affected area) is treated with massage oil, and then a smooth horn plate is used to gently scrape downward along the affected areas. This process helps release the stagnation.
Ba-Guan (cupping)
While Gua-Sha works by “pushing out” stagnation, “Ba-Guan” (cupping) works by drawing it out. By placing the “cups” on specific acupuncture point areas, suction by vacuum is created on the skin. The cups are then left in place for 5 to 10 minutes. After removal, the skin will likely appear purplish in the treated areas, almost like a temporary tattoo —this may look a bit funny, but it fades without a trace within a few hours to a couple of days.
Moxa
“Moxa” consists of cigar-shaped rolls made from Chinese medicinal herbs. When ignited, their heat and smoke stimulate the function of the acupuncture points. Additionally, the emitted warmth has an immediately calming effect on the patient. The best results are achieved through a combination of acupressure or acupuncture followed by moxa treatment. A healthy sleep afterward is the best follow-up treatment.
