Acne Care – Chinese Medicine

Chinese Medicine is an ancient system of healthcare having been practiced for thousands of years in the East. It is a holistic form of medicine involving Acupuncture, the use of Herbs, a form of movement, dietary and lifestyle advice. The root of this system stems from the belief that the body is one unit, which should work in harmony with nature, therefore if one part of the body is out of tune then the whole body should be treated and not just the underlying problem.

The word Acupuncture comes from the Latin words acus (needle) and (pungere) to prick. There are several different styles and techniques of acupuncture, some involve the use of needles some do not. Techniques are still evolving, but at present they can involve the use of a machine, which generates a slight electric current through the needles, also the use of an ultrasound machine, called sono puncture, where sound waves are transmitted to points on the body. The use of hands to apply pressure is often used too. In the west, graduates from Western Medical Schools, use acupuncture points based on anatomic data. They use shorter needles, with shallower insertions. The needles are in situ for a shorter time.

Traditional Chinese Acupuncture as first noted 2000 years ago, with references to it found in an ancient medical text called 'The Yellow Emperors Classic of Internal Medicine'. It is a technique where ultra fine needles 0.007-0-020 inches diameter, where the upper third of the needle is covered with a plastic or bronze material to make it easier for the Practitioner to handle, are inserted into points on the skin, but not on the problem area. The needles may be left in situ for 15-60 minutes. Sometimes the Practitioner will heat the needles and herbs will be held on the end of them to burn. This is called Moxibustion. It has been described as pleasant, and the herbs do not touch the skin. The treatment works on the principle that, 'damp heat' rising from organs causes the blockage in the flow of the life energy or chi. Thus where there is an imbalance of this life energy, then problems develop. Acupuncture treatment restores this balance which allows the body to heal itself. In the West, the scientific explanations for the success of acupuncture treatment suggest, that the needles stimulate deep sensory nerves. As a result of this, endorphins which are natural analgesics, are released thus pain is relieved. An anti inflammatory response is also stimulated by the needles. The treatment also relieves stress and therefore aids relaxation.

Acupuncture is not only used on the body, it can also be used on the face which is a painless technique, and good for acne. It promotes blood circulation, stimulates collagen formation and helps natural energy flow, thus re balancing the body. Most Practitioners give advice on diet, such as avoiding spicy food, and advise on the use of herbs to complement acupuncture treatment.

There are three addresses available, where qualified Acupuncturists can be found. The Association of British Medical Practitioners, are Doctors who are interested in Acupuncture. It is a registered charity.

British Medical Acupuncture Society
BMAS House 3 Winnington Court
Northwich
Cheshire CW8 1AQ
www.medical-acupuncture.co.uk

The regulatory body in the UK is:

British Acupuncture Council
63 Jeddo Road
London W12 9HQ
Tel: 00 44 0208 735 0400
www.acupuncture.org.uk

Also Chinese Medicine Biomedical Centre
Middlesex House
Cleveland Street
London W1T 4LB
Tel: 00 44 0207 631 9131

The staple medicines of Traditional Chinese Medicine come in the form of powders, still made according to the traditional methods used for thousands of years. Although nowadays they are made in factories. Basically, the raw herbal plant parts are made into a tea. This is then dried and concentrated into a sap like substance, which is then ground into a powder. There are over 5500 different powders made. So, the Practitioner can tailor make a prescription. The powders are taken with water - they can be placed on the tongue and swallowed or can be taken in a pill form.

At present The Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine provides information on properly qualified Practitioners, who are bound by codes of ethics and good practice. However, they are still working towards regulation of Practitioners and the quality of herbs in the UK and Europe.

www.rchm.co.uk

Tai Chi is practiced in many parts of the world. It is a form of exercise performed in a soft and graceful manner, which entails smooth transitions between movements. The movements are derived from martial arts and imitate birds and animals in a sequence of gentle but invigorating movements. The word chi, means the vitality that animates the body. It enhances health, by promoting good circulation, to the bloodvessels, nervous system and organs of the body, thereby helping the skin to eliminate toxins. The aim is to achieve oneness by balancing the ying and yang using the chi force within the body.

Always consult your GP before undertaking any other form of treatment for acne, as it may interfere with any treatment you are already taking. Herbs especially have side effects, so it is especially important to consult your Dermatologist or GP.

 

Information supplied and written by Christine Burden - TalkAcne Web Site Manager