Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine has been traditionally used to treat virtually any ailment under the sun. Herbs can be helpful in both acute and chronic conditions. Topical formulas and liniments can help with dermatological issues and some pain conditions, and internal formulas work to correct deeper imbalances. Chinese herbal formulas can also work like food therapy in promoting health and longevity over the long term.
Herbal medicine can be extremely beneficial to your health, which is why it is of the utmost importance to complete a full herbal consultation with a trained professional before taking any form of herbal medicine. NCCAOM certification in Chinese Herbal Medicine is currently the highest standard to ensure that a practitioner has the necessary skill to prescribe these medicinals safely and effectively. The years of rigorous training required of a NCCAOM-certified practitioner stand in stark contrast to that of other healthcare practitioners and lay persons such as DCs, RNs, or even MDs who are currently allowed to recommend herbal treatment within this state.
In addition to graduating from an accredited program, a NCCAOM Diplomate must demonstrate competency by passing certification exams in the Foundations of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture, Chinese Herbology, and Biomedicine. The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) was established in 1982 as a nonprofit with the aim of “establishing, assessing, and promoting recognized standards of competence and safety in acupuncture and Oriental medicine for the protection and benefit of the public.”
Jana has additional advanced training in herbal medicine. In 2021, she became certified through the White Pine Graduate Mentorship program following three years of vigorous study in diagnostics and herbal medicine.
Prepared and custom (granule) formulas are available. Please reach out if you would like to schedule a consultation.
Nutritional Counseling
According to East Asian Medicine, all things in the world are divided according to the elements of water, wood, fire, earth and metal. In our body, these 5 elements represent the 5 major organs – kidneys, liver, heart, stomach and lungs – all of which are essential for survival. Usually, one of these organs is stronger than the others. This is reflected in the personality, behavior and habits of each one of us. Usually when you are strong in one element, you need to build or support the other elements in order to find the balance. One of the best ways to create balance in the body is to eat foods that match all five food tastes – salty, sour, bitter, sweet or spicy.
Your nutritional routine (daily food intake, cravings, allergies, etc.) will be reviewed in your initial consultation. Alterations and modifications of your diet will be suggested. This will include food recommendations and dietary/nutritional education designed to improve your health.
Nutritional counseling is provided free of charge as part of your acupuncture treatment.