Chinese herbs for allergies and sinus

Just read an article in the Wall Street Journal about a Chinese herbal formula called Bian Pian. This is a safe, well established formula that seems to have a drying effect on the nasal membranes. In fact it seems to work too well in some cases and can actually make you too dry. (In cases such as that, discontinue or reduce dosage). The studies on Bian Pian were positive in some cases and inconclusive in others. I also use another formula for respiratory problems that is administered by the inhalation of steaming herbs (think vaporizer). This formula which translates into "Open Lung", has the effect of opening the nasal passages and is generally safe. I am currently treating a difficult case where I am using a combination of both herbal formulas. The patient has a "dry" type rhinitis but this is compounded by a deviated septum. The finding of deviated septum was confirmed by MRI. Many times, multiple formulas are used to treat the same basic problem. When I studied in China, I noticed that this was fairly common practice in the hospital.

Balance

We often hear the word "Balance" used in reference to health and a healthy lifestyle. What is meant by this word? If we look at it in its most literal definition we mean physical balance, not falling down. However, in a whole sense, were talking about many types of balance- internal, external, physical , emotional and so on. In Florida for example, we live in a very hot climate and stay indoors in air conditioned spaces. As a result, we tend to dehydrate rapidly. If you sleep in a sealed (windows closed, everything tight) home, 8 hours a night, chances are you are pretty dry in the morning. Balance, then, dictates that the first thing you do in the morning is drink a glass of water. First thing. How many of us do? It's downhill from there. You spend all day on the computer and you expect to carry on a normal conversation when you get home? You eat sweets to excess, sedating yourself with sugar highs and lows and then can't eat a normal meal? You stay up all night and can't get anything done during the day? These are all signs of being out of balance. There is a normal balance in nature- night time is cooler, we slow down and sleep. If your life is not in balance you probably have lost touch with the natural order of things. Time to go to a beach, watch a sunset, re-examine your life in relationship to the natural balance of nature.

New Services

I have just added some great new services to my clinic. We are offering 1 free prenatal massage each to the first 10 women who respond. Clinic is located in Jupiter, Florida. Also, now offering nutrition consulting services with Registered Dietitian who interned at Johns Hopkins Medical Center.
From July 7 to July 21 there is a phone drive to help support HR 646, the Federal Acupuncture Act. You can call your congressional rep, senator or president (202-456-1111). There is a good letter on line at www.aaaomonline.org.
Lastly, there is a good free web newsletter available at Debrajoygoldman.com. It provides lots of information on helping you live life fully.

Prenatal Massage

I have seen prenatal massage help many women with back pain and other problems associated with pregnancy. I have just added this service to my clinic in Jupiter, Florida. We will give one free massage each to the first ten pregnant women that reply.