Our lungs are incredibly important. Without properly functioning lungs, we cease to exist. In the United States alone, nearly 200,000 people die every year from forms of respiratory disease. Respiratory diseases include both acute and chronic conditions, everything from the flu to emphysema. While many of these ailments can be prevented, there are others not avoidable due to things like genetics. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the lungs play a very strange role becaus

The organs in Chinese medicine are more than just a physical representation. The organs include not only their physiological function but also mental, emotional, spiritual and elemental qualities that align with nature and the seasons. The lung season is autumn. This is a good time to protect the lungs from changes in weather by wearing a scarf to keep your neck warm, staying out of wind and keeping your dryness at bay. It’s an excellent time to nourish the digestive system w

The season of fall brings cooler weather and shorter days. As with any season, the world adjusts accordingly. Plants begin to go dormant, animals start scrounging for food to help get them through the upcoming winter months and humans start winterizing everything. Sweatpants and hoodies become more commonplace and everything…EVERYTHING is pumpkin flavored. As fall descends on the land, it reminds us we need to start cutting back on the numerous cooling foods that are consumed

Research Update: Acupuncture for Respiratory Issues A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine saw the efficacy of acupuncture treatments improve the respiratory status of patients on prolonged mechanical ventilation. The patients involved in the study were in critical care and treated with acupuncture four times a week. Of the 16 participants, 11 were successfully weaned off of mechanical ventilation once acupuncture treatments began. All fact