Oriental Medicine Specialist
Integrative Family Medicine
Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine located in Olney, MD
As one of the most ancient systems of medicine in history, Oriental medicine is recorded as having been used as far back as 5000 years ago. Different from Western medicine, this type of medicine focuses on harmonizing the body, mind, and spirit, with the patient’s natural surroundings. If you are interested in learning more about what Oriental medicine can treat, and how it might help you, call or click to schedule an appointment with Dr. Anahita Seyedan of Integrative Family Medicine in Olney, Maryland.
Oriental Medicine Q & A
What is Oriental medicine?
Oriental medicine restores health and balance by treating illness and disease through the five major branches:
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Acupuncture
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Chinese herbal medicine
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Oriental nutrition and dietary therapy
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Tuina or Oriental bodywork
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Tai chi and qi gong
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Oriental medicine encompasses many different practices and is rooted in the ancient philosophy of Taoism, which even predates Oriental medicine by another 3,000 years.
How is acupuncture used in Oriental medicine?
A traditional technique utilized in many forms of Chinese medicine, acupuncture helps with overall body healing, pain relief, and other conditions. A traditional Chinese technique used for unblocking a patient’s “qi” or “chi” energy is done by inserting needles at specific points on the body. Acupuncture seeks to balance the opposing forces of the inner yin and yang, thereby easing various forms of pain and stiffness.
What does Oriental medicine treat?
While both Oriental and Western medicine provide a map of the human body, patients might choose Oriental medicine if they are looking to garner a more holistic understanding of the body and how its parts interact with one another. Oriental medicine is also less invasive and can have fewer negative side effects. Many people choose Oriental medicine to help with issues such as:
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Respiratory disorders
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Eye disorders
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Mental and emotional disorders
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Musculoskeletal disorders
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Gastrointestinal disorders
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Reproductive system issues
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Disorders of the mouth and ears
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Neurological disorders
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Two of the most common reasons people use Oriental medicine, though, is for autoimmune disorders and Lyme disease. Oriental medicine can lessen their symptoms as many herbs have been shown to have properties that boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. Furthermore, many herbs are anti-pathogenic and nourishing to the body.
Integrative Family Medicine offers alternative methods for the treatment of other illnesses as well.
Can children be treated with Oriental medicine?
Yes. Pediatrics is one of the oldest specialities within the realm of Chinese medicine. The various modalities within Oriental medicine, such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage therapy, and dietary therapy, have all been proven to provide relief for children with serious health issues.
Treating children who have various medical conditions with Oriental medicine has also been shown to reduce complications and treatment time. Oriental medicine can keep children functioning at their highest physical, mental, and emotional level and maintain their natural balance and inner harmony.
What is the philosophy behind Oriental medicine?
Oriental medicine relies on a comprehensive and individualized diagnosis of the patient's “qi” — pronounced “chi” — energy. The imbalance of qi, or its weakness, can affect key organ systems. Oriental medicine sees this as the underlying cause of disease and disharmony in the body. Dr. Seyedan uses oriental medicine to restore balance to the qi, thereby helping patients gain back their health.
Because Oriental medicine is centered around the connections of the body, mind, and natural environment, it utilizes herbal treatment to help people become their healthiest selves. When you visit Dr. Seyedan, she will conduct an herbal consultation to see if all of your body’s needs are being met and provide suggestions as to which herbs will help you feel your best.
What is an herbal consultation?
To ensure your body’s general wellness, the doctors of Oriental Medicine at IFM will complete a thorough herbal consultation during your visit. Similar to a physical exam that your primary care physician would administer, it will include a detailed overview of your health history, dietary and lifestyle practices, and your overall constitution. Conditions they often look for are:
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Fatigue
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Thyroid disease
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Hormone imbalances in women
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A need to lose weight
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Diabetes
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High blood pressure
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Food allergies
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Lyme disease
Depending on the results, the doctors of Oriental Medicine may recommend a variety of herbs. She utilizes herbs for their medicinal and therapeutic value, as herbs can include mineral substances that are key to your well-being.
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They also offer a Chinese medicinal bath to treat issues such as skin conditions, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia.
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If you are interested in learning more about how Oriental medicine can help you reach your health goals, click or call to schedule an appointment with Integrative Family Medicine today.