Traditional Chinese Medicine can be integrated safely alongside conventional medicine.

serving Santa Barbara, California

Traditional Chinese Medicine

The beauty of Chinese Medicine is that it does not just address signs and symptoms, but instead activates the body’s natural healing potential to treat the root of the problem. We look at each person individually, figure out how their specific pattern(s) developed, and create a unique treatment plan which may involve Chinese herbs, nutritional and lifestyle advice, cupping, gua sha or warming therapies.

  • Diet Advice

    You have heard many times before “You are what you eat.” The Chinese believe this as well! They observed thousands of years ago that what you take in from the external environment can affect the state of your internal environment. Thus, food is seen as medicine. As part of your treatment plan, we will discuss foods that will support the healing of your condition and ones that may be getting in the way. We will also take a good look at your digestion and use foods and supplements to achieve optimal absorption of the nutrients you eat.

  • Lifestyle

    Many of us lead hectic, frenetic lifestyles, which can contribute to physical symptoms of discord or disease. How we live our lives and deal with stress has a major effect on our bodies and their ability to heal. We use research and education to incorporate modifications to help support you. Sweeping changes of multiple practices are likely not going to generate lasting results. We work with each person individually and offer focused recommendations that may be effectively integrated into daily life.

  • Chinese herbs and medicinals

    As a formally trained and board-certified herbalist in the US, we use Chinese herbs safely and appropriately. We primarily use granules or pills. We are also committed to using herbal medicinals that are ethically and responsibly sourced whenever possible.

Cupping

Cupping is a therapy where a clean glass is applied to lubricated skin. The cup may remain stationary or it is gently moved. Clients liken the effects to a longer-lasting deep tissue massage.

Gua Sha

Gua Sha is a manual therapy where a tool is used to stroke the skin. It can be used alongside acupuncture or by itself. The procedure is used to address pain, skin issues, colds/flu, and other problems. Gua Sha can also be used as a self-care treatment one can do at home.

Warming Therapy

Warming therapy can include the burning of a Chinese herb called mugwort indirectly over the skin (moxibustion) or the use of a TDP lamp that is pointed over a certain part of the body. Moxa, or the TDP lamp, warms the skin to aid circulation, reduce pain and cold sensations, and support the body’s metabolism.