CHINESE MEDICINE

Artemisia Clinic offers acupuncture and herbal medicine in the traditions of Classical Chinese Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture consists of the insertion of thin needles into specific points along trajectories called "meridians" on the body. The points used and the number of needles used always depend upon the patient's unique presentation. Clara prefers to use as few needles as possible, as this gives the body the clearest communication and instructions on how and where to direct the treatment. The insertion of acupuncture needles doesn't usually hurt; it can feel like a quick mosquito bite or like nothing at all. Once the needles are positioned they can cause sensations such as aching, pulling, slight tingling, warmth, heaviness, or pulsing. All of these sensations are perfectly normal and are considered to be a good sign of active "Qi." Depending on the required treatment, needles are retained for anywhere between a second and 45 minutes, with the average being between 10 and 30 minutes at a time. 

Herbal Prescriptions

The practice of herbalism is a large and ancient part of Chinese Medicine. The Chinese materia medica is unique to this medicine, though many of the herbs are also used as western and Ayurvedic herbs and spices. The vast range of synergistic combinations of herbs in Chinese Medicine enable us to treat very specific patterns and even various presentations of the same illnesses. At Artemisia Clinic, Clara uses herbs of the highest quality; mostly organic—and when organic options aren't available she uses herbs that are rigorously tested for quality and are free from pesticides and other contaminants. When available, herbs are purchased from domestic sources, and the rest come from GMP-certified sources in Taiwan. Clara prescribes herbs in loose form for decoction (similar to tea), granules (like instant coffee), tablets, and topical preparations like liniments, balms, poultices, and washes. Herbal prescriptions can speed the healing process when paired with acupuncture treatments or they can be used by themselves.

Other Modalities

Chinese Medicine is a system of healthcare that covers not only acupuncture and herbalism, but many other modalities as well. When called for, Clara performs moxibustion, cupping, guasha, TDP far infrared heat therapy, Manaka style ion pumping cord treatments, tuina massage, and electrical stimulation.