How to Learn About the Science Behind Chinese Medicine
Though Chinese medicine developed, in large part, prior to the advent of modern science, some scientists today are finding increasing empirical evidence that Chinese acupuncture and herbal treatments work very well, with few side effects. If you're curious about how acupuncture relieves muscle stiffness or how herbal concoctions can relieve your flu, follow these steps to learn more about the science behind Chinese medicine.
Things You'll Need:
Computer with Internet access
Understand the Science Behind Acupuncture
1
Know that proponents say that acupuncture points have an electrical resistance that differs from that of the tissue around them.
2
Understand your brain's chemistry. A treatment started at a specific acupuncture point, like your foot, can be received by a different part of your body, like your shoulder.
3
Learn how acupuncture needles introduce electromagnetic forces into your body. They behave like antennas, drawing electromagnetism into the insertion point.
4
Familiarize yourself with your body's natural painkillers. Acupuncture coaxes your brain into producing and releasing more pain-treating chemicals, like endorphins and serotonin.
5
Consult an acupuncture specialist. The cost of a session with a Chinese medicine practitioner is moderate and affordable. It may even be covered under your health insurance plan.
Learn the Science Behind Herbal Treatments
1
Understand how drugs work on your body. All drugs, including herbal treatments, introduce agents to your bloodstream that your brain then processes to create the desired effect.
2
Read up on current developments in the scientific study of Chinese herbal remedies at the Saugerties Wellness Center Web site (see Resources below). There's an increasing body of evidence suggesting they're as effective as conventional drugs in treating certain conditions, with less side effects.
3
Exercise caution when using herbal treatments. Though they're frequently marketed as dietary supplements, you should have a thorough understanding of their effects before you start using them. Herbs can interact with other drugs in negative ways. For instance, taking certain herbs will make birth control pills less effective.
4
Find a Chinese herbalist in your town or city who can explain how herbal remedies work on your body. Consultation costs tend to be inexpensive.
Tips & Warnings
Don't diagnose or treat ailments yourself using Chinese medicine until you consult an expert. Serious conditions like artery blockage and bone breaks should be treated using conventional medicine.
Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2031542_learn-science-behind.html
Though Chinese medicine developed, in large part, prior to the advent of modern science, some scientists today are finding increasing empirical evidence that Chinese acupuncture and herbal treatments work very well, with few side effects. If you're curious about how acupuncture relieves muscle stiffness or how herbal concoctions can relieve your flu, follow these steps to learn more about the science behind Chinese medicine.
Things You'll Need:
Computer with Internet access
Understand the Science Behind Acupuncture
1
Know that proponents say that acupuncture points have an electrical resistance that differs from that of the tissue around them.
2
Understand your brain's chemistry. A treatment started at a specific acupuncture point, like your foot, can be received by a different part of your body, like your shoulder.
3
Learn how acupuncture needles introduce electromagnetic forces into your body. They behave like antennas, drawing electromagnetism into the insertion point.
4
Familiarize yourself with your body's natural painkillers. Acupuncture coaxes your brain into producing and releasing more pain-treating chemicals, like endorphins and serotonin.
5
Consult an acupuncture specialist. The cost of a session with a Chinese medicine practitioner is moderate and affordable. It may even be covered under your health insurance plan.
Learn the Science Behind Herbal Treatments
1
Understand how drugs work on your body. All drugs, including herbal treatments, introduce agents to your bloodstream that your brain then processes to create the desired effect.
2
Read up on current developments in the scientific study of Chinese herbal remedies at the Saugerties Wellness Center Web site (see Resources below). There's an increasing body of evidence suggesting they're as effective as conventional drugs in treating certain conditions, with less side effects.
3
Exercise caution when using herbal treatments. Though they're frequently marketed as dietary supplements, you should have a thorough understanding of their effects before you start using them. Herbs can interact with other drugs in negative ways. For instance, taking certain herbs will make birth control pills less effective.
4
Find a Chinese herbalist in your town or city who can explain how herbal remedies work on your body. Consultation costs tend to be inexpensive.
Tips & Warnings
Don't diagnose or treat ailments yourself using Chinese medicine until you consult an expert. Serious conditions like artery blockage and bone breaks should be treated using conventional medicine.
Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2031542_learn-science-behind.html
