by Andy Wong | Oct 24, 2018 | Health
Do you often find yourself repeatedly hitting the snooze button and struggling to get out of bed? If so, you’re far from alone, but there are actually a few very simple Traditional Chinese Medicine inspired solutions that can help you start every day with a positive outlook and wake up with a spring in your step.
- Plan ahead
According to TCM principles, too much stress can wreak havoc on our internal systems and cause a variety of undesirable effects. Avoid the morning rush and any unnecessary stress by planning for your day the night before, whether it be laying out your clothes, packing your bag, or preparing a simple breakfast to eat before you head out the door.
- Avoid screens
For many of us, our entire day can revolve around screens, so it’s best to avoid them for as long as possible when we wake up. Rather than reaching for your phone or turning on the TV, consider reading a book, listening to some music or tuning into a podcast, and save your screen time for later in the day.
- Hydrate
After going hours without water, it’s best to start hydrating as soon as you wake up to start clearing away any toxins that may have built up in your digestive tract overnight. For an extra boost of vitamin C that kickstarts your metabolism, try adding a splash of fresh lemon juice!
- Stretch
For a great burst of energy without relying on caffeine, consider adding some simple stretches into your daily morning ritual. Remember to be gentle, and don’t expect your body to be at its peak flexibility first thing! Add in some deep breaths and you’ll soon be feeling revitalised and ready to take on whatever the day throws your way.
by Andy Wong | Oct 9, 2018 | Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, Health
As anyone who has experienced them will attest to, gallstones can be highly uncomfortable and in some cases can even lead to intense pain. While 70% of those with gallstones won’t feel any symptoms at all, those who do may experience nausea, vomiting, dark urine, stomach pain, burping, diarrhea and indigestion.
What are gallstones?
Gallstones are stone-like deposits of digestive fluid and calcium salts that form when there is too much cholesterol or bilirubin in the bile stored in the gallbladder. Depending on the cause, the gallstones can either be a yellow or dark brown colour.
What causes gallstones?
While the root cause of gallstones remains unconfirmed, it is widely believed that a number of lifestyle factors contribute to the bile imbalances that can lead to gallstones. These factors include being overweight, consuming a high fat diet, rapid weight loss and having diabetes mellitus.
How can Chinese medicine help?
While many who suffer from gallstones turn to invasive surgeries for treatment, there are actually quite a number of simple Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment options that can greatly reduce the effects of gallstones.
According to TCM principles, the gallbladder is closely linked with the liver, and is regulated by the liver qi. By supporting the liver with a healthy diet and eliminating greasy, fatty, rich or spicy foods, the liver is able to operate much more efficiently, and thereby so can the gallbladder.
Further to this, your TCM practitioner can prescribe you with a personalised combination of Chinese herbs and a tailored acupuncture treatment plan to help minimise the effects of gallstones and restore your overall sense of health and wellbeing.
Say no to surgery and opt for a more natural gallstones treatment method that people all over the world have followed with success for thousands of years. Contact Luciferous Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic in Melbourne today.
by Andy Wong | Sep 20, 2018 | Chinese Medicine
Acne is something that most of us will experience in our lives at one point or another, but for some, it’s a condition can be particularly challenging to overcome. While most western remedies advocate for a variety of medicated ointments and washes, Traditional Chinese Medicine takes a holistic approach, and aims to treat acne from within.
Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, Chinese medicine practitioners understand that each case is unique, and that the symptoms should be treated accordingly. While for some, the answer could be as simple as a change in diet, other patients’ conditions may require further investigation and a more thorough treatment plan.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, acne is one of the many different effects that can occur when the body’s internal system falls out of balance. This can occur for a variety of reasons, but in terms of acne, it is like to be owing to things that cause excess heat to rise up through the body, such as stress, agitation, hot foods and poor circulation.
As well as this, excess dampness can have an undesirable effect on the skin, and things such as damp environments, raw foods, insufficient sweating and poor digestion could all contribute to the overall condition.
With so many possible causes, it’s important to talk to an experience Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner who can uncover the root of your condition and create a customised treatment plan to get you back on your way to clear and healthy skin.
To book a consultation with Luciferous Traditional Chinese Medicine, contact us today on (03) 9576 8538 or make an appointment online now.
by Andy Wong | Sep 6, 2018 | Health
While many of us have been eagerly awaiting the warmer weather, spring can also signal the beginning of hayfever season and make those with seasonal allergies truly miserable!
Clinically known as Allergic Rhinitis, hayfever is one of the most chronic respiratory conditions in the country and can cause symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, a runny nose as well as having a whole host of other unpleasant effects.
While seasonal allergy sufferers often tend to turn towards pharmaceutical medication for relief first, there are actually a variety of natural options that can have a tremendous effect on reducing the symptoms of hayfever.
Herbal medicines
When it comes to beating hayfever, Chinese herbal medicine can have an incredibly useful as they work to treat the underlying cause rather than managing the symptoms alone. Depending on the symptoms you personally experience, an experienced practitioner will determine the best possible combination of herbs for your treatment. Common options include
Goldenrod, rosemary, sage, nettles, eyebright, jing jie and quercetin.
Acupuncture
Depending on the symptoms you experience, acupuncture may be even more effective than some over the counter medications in providing immediate. Acupuncture aids in clearing nasal passages congestion, eliminating a post-nasal drip, reducing inflammation and swelling of the nasal passages and soothing itchy noses and eyes.
Holistic diet
Something many fail to realise is that your diet can play an important role in the way your body reacts to seasonal allergies. When excessive mucus accumulates in the system, allergens stimulate a much stronger allergic reaction, which is why it is recommended that hayfever sufferers avoid sweets, dairy products, and cold foods which can actually increase mucus buildup.
For further support in overcoming your allergies this spring, book a consultation at Luciferous Traditional Chinese Medicine today.
by Andy Wong | Aug 17, 2018 | Chinese Medicine
Abdominal bloating is something that affects thousands of Australians each and every day. While most cases are mild, others can cause intense discomfort as well as a slew of other symptoms.
According to the ancient principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, bloating occurs when there is no smooth flow from the spleen and stomach, or the qi or energy becomes stuck.
Fortunately, Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a range of effective natural treatment options to reduce bloating. Here are some simple tips to have you feeling better in no time.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of the most effective treatment options for bloating as it can regulate the digestive system, aid metabolism and support the stomach to move the stuck energy or qi – and in some cases the effects are almost instantaneous.
Herbal medicine
Another highly effective option to help reduce bloating is Chinese herbal medicine. An experienced practitioner will be able to prescribe you with a customised concoction of concentrated herbs to regulate the stomach and spleen to move the energy downwards rather than having it remain in the abdomen.
Monitor your diet
An important component of maintaining a balanced lifestyle is to ensure that you are closely monitoring your diet. Be aware of what you are consuming and take note of any certain goods that may exacerbate your symptoms, as well as any that have a relieving effect.
Consume warm beverages
If bloating is becoming a common concern, Traditional Chinese Medicine principles advocate the consumption of warm beverages over cold ones. Warm beverages like tea or warm water are notably gentler on the stomach whereas cold drinks can worsen existing symptoms.
by Andy Wong | Aug 4, 2018 | Health
Traditional Chinese Medicine has become increasingly popular with athletes all over the world, with acupuncture being the number one treatment of choice – but can it really affect physical endurance?
Recent studies show that acupuncture can boost athletic performance in several different ways, and regular treatments can actually improve an athlete’s ability to perform at a higher capacity for a longer period of time.
Reduces recovery time
One of the main reasons why acupuncture helps athletes to perform is because it can drastically reduce recovery time, allowing them to keep to a more intensive training schedule without risking injury.
Combats muscle fatigue
Another great reason why acupuncture can promote endurance is because it stimulates blood flow to the various parts of the body. In turn, this encourages muscles to repair at a faster rate and limits soreness an athlete may experience after training.
Improves oxygen transmission
As well as this, acupuncture also encourages a more efficient degree of oxygen transmission in the body. In order to perform at their best and for longer periods of time, athletes require a strong transmission of oxygen to their lungs, liver, and digestive system.
Aids in sleep
An additional benefit of acupuncture is that many recipients of the treatment report markedly improved sleep – which plays a critical role in the recovery process. Athletes require around 7-8 hours of undisturbed sleep per night in order to perform at their peak
So, whether you’re an elite athlete or simply starting out, regular acupuncture treatments can make a real difference to your endurance levels and have you on your way to running a marathon in no time!
by Andy Wong | Jul 15, 2018 | Chinese Medicine
As we all know, acupuncture offers a vast number of benefits – but exciting new research suggests it could also help reduce the side effects of chemotherapy treatment in cancer patients.
According to Cancer Australia, it is estimated that up to 138,321 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in Australia in this year alone and many will be required to undergo chemotherapy treatment.
While symptoms vary from person to person, chemotherapy treatment is generally considered to be an unpleasant experience. Side effects can often include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, constipation, diarrhea, hair loss, muscle soreness, reduced concentration, mood changes and many more.
However, acupuncture can offer some much-needed relief and improve cancer patients overall health and wellness as they undergo their rigorous treatment.
Reduce nausea
One of the most notable changes which chemotherapy patients may experience after an acupuncture session is a reduction in nausea and improved sense of wellbeing.
Reduce muscle soreness
Another great way that acupuncture treatment can also help chemotherapy patients is by reducing muscle soreness and nerve tingling, allowing patients to continue on with their daily lives and exercise routines.
Reduce anxiety
A diagnosis of cancer can be incredibly confronting and it’s common for patients to experience feelings of anxiety. Regular acupuncture treatments can help lower patients anxiety levels and allow them to focus on their recovery.
Recent studies indicate that for the best results, a regular acupuncture plan should be followed with sessions up to twice per week.
An experienced practitioner will be able to customise an individual plan for their patient’s own specific needs to support them to get the most out of their acupuncture treatment and support them through the recovery process.
by Andy Wong | Jul 2, 2018 | Health
Staying well hydrated is one of the most fundamental principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, but during the cooler months, it can become difficult to stay on top of.
Drink warm water
When winter rolls around, we tend to seek warmer foods and beverages to heat us up from the inside out – so why not do the same with water? A glass of lukewarm water will quench your thirst just as well as a cool cup
Sip throughout the day
Rather than consuming large quantities in one hit, it’s best to sip water steadily throughout the day, so try to make a habit of carrying a water bottle with you wherever you go.
Try herbal tea
If you’re after something with a little more flavour, try some different herbal teas and see if any take your fancy. As well as helping to get your water intake up, herbal teas can offer a wide range of other health benefits too.
Make you own infusions
If tea isn’t for you, consider making your own fruit infusions to add some extra flavour to water. A few slices of lemon or lime along with some sprigs of mint make for a refreshing beverage you’re going to love.
Avoid alcohol
If you’re struggling to meet your daily waiter intake, it’s best to avoid alcohol as this can only dehydrate you further. If you don’t want to give up the drink, make sure you add an extra glass of water between every beverage.
Go easy on the coffee
How dependent are you on your daily dose of java? While one cup won’t hurt, it’s worth noting that coffee is a diuretic and will have you needing to urinate much for frequently. Like with alcohol, it’s best to add an extra glass of water for every coffee you consume.
by Andy Wong | Jun 15, 2018 | Health
For many expectant mothers, the last few weeks of their pregnancy are often spent trying to induce labour.
While there is an endless number of home remedies and urban legends about how to hurry the process along, acupuncture can offer a simple solution to help bring on the birth of your baby.
A variety of studies suggest that regular acupuncture sessions leading up to your due date can help bring on labour earlier and eliminate the need to be medically induced or for further invasive hospital-based alternatives.
As well as this, acupuncture can also offer a variety of other benefits to assist women to have a more enjoyable pregnancy. By working to reduce stress and anxiety, acupuncture can help relax the muscles, which in turn can lead to a reduced labour time.
Furthermore, acupuncture can also be a valuable tool for naturally reducing pregnancy-related pain such as back, neck and pelvic pain.
To experience the full benefits the acupuncture can offer, it is recommended that women commence their acupuncture treatment at around the 36-week mark.
However, the benefits of acupuncture of endless, and many expectant mothers find acupuncture to be the perfect way to unwind and help restore balance through a time where many changes are occurring within their body.
by Andy Wong | Jun 1, 2018 | Chinese Medicine
With the colder weather well and truly here, now is an important time to take some extra measures to ensure you don’t fall ill throughout the winter. Follow these top Traditional Chinese Medicine tips to keep your immune system strong and fight off the dreaded symptoms of cold and flu.
Herbal medicine
The immune-boosting benefits of Chinese herbal medicine are widely acknowledged, so much so that many Western practitioners are also advocating them to their patients too. Some of the top choices to stock up on as we head into winter are echinacea (antiviral and antibacterial herb), ginger (a powerful antihistamine and decongestant) and yin chiao (a nine-herb formula, which soothes the lungs and stomach and clears the nasal passages).
Acupuncture
We all know that our bodies can have an adverse reaction to changes in the weather, but did you know that acupuncture can help? Among its many benefits, acupuncture can help your body find balance after experiencing changes in the environment, so with every changing of the seasons, it’s a good idea to book a session with a trusted acupuncturist.
Cupping
A large part of the reason we fall ill in the first place is due to our body’s inability to fight off the germs and toxins we encounter in our external environment. Cupping therapy promotes healing and can help draw out toxins. In turn, this allows us to recover much faster and can dramatically shorten the length of time we spend feeling unwell.
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