Acupuncture uses needles about the width of your finger nail (1 mm) to activate acupuncture points on the body.  Each of these points has specific biological correspondences to organs, fluids and tissues of the body.  By inserting the small needles, using acupressure or applying essential oils it is possible to increase organ function, improve circulation and ease pain.

Other modalities of treatment can also include using moxa to apply heat to a point and cupping which will pull toxins from the body, increase circulation and greatly ease muscle pain.

One or all of these methods may be employed during a treatment depending on the needs of the patient.  Generally with children children, needles aren’t used and even then only 1 needle will be used per treatment.

The only way the body truly heals is through its own healing power.  Acupuncture and herbs support the body’s natural healing process safely and effectively.

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I use a few different forms of herbal medicine in my practice; raw herbs for the strongest medicinal effect, tinctures for most patients, powder herbs and essential oils mainly for pediatrics.  The raw herbs as shown in the picture above are the most potent form of herbal medicine; these herbs need to be boiled down twice and become a concentrated brown juice of sorts. Every day a 1/2 cup is taken in the morning and 1/2 cup in the evening. The taste is strong and the effect can be very strong.  Because it is time intensive and can be very potent these formulas are reserved for more stubborn or serious illnesses.

      The second form of tinctures is much easier to take and there is no cooking time for the patient.  Each week a 1 ounce bottle gets refilled with formula and the patient takes 1 dropper full 2 times a day with food.  The taste is also strong but the volume is much less than for the raw herbs.  Most people find this form of herbs the easiest and quickest to take because there’s no time commitment and you can carry the little bottle around with you.

    Powdered herbs are raw herbs that have been cooked and dehydrated already.  That way all that is needed is 1 cup of warm water to dissolve for each dose.   These are a bit more expensive than the raw herbs and not as potent.   But the taste is better!   Mild formulas taste rather sweet and earthy and can be suitable for children and adults as well.

    Essential oils are the essence of the herbal plants in a concentrated oil.  The individual herbal oils are made into a formula of 3-5 different oils and diluted in a carrier oil.   The essential oil formula functions just like a regular herbal formula and is designed and personalized to the individual need of the patient.   The blend of oils is then put into a glass vial (purple or blue) with a roller ball for easy application.  This is an excellent treatment modality for kids because they don’t have to try and swallow something yucky!  It is also an excellent adjunct herbal therapy to make treatments more effective, specifically in cases of polycystic ovaries, menopause, digestive disorders, developmental disorders (ADHD, autism), asthma, etc.  

    And of course pill form is also available upon request. 

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Insurance is accepted for Acupuncture treatments or payment up front.

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Herbal consultations are not covered by insurance and are $50 for each consult.

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