What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture in its classical form is a characteristic component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It has been categorized as a natural treatment. It is a procedure involving penetration of the skin with needles, to stimulate certain points on the body.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, stimulating specific acupuncture points corrects imbalances in the flow of qi through channels known as meridians. The practice of acupuncture is in principle concerned with removing any blockages and maintaining the free flow  Qi as well as re-establishing the dynamic balance between Yin and Yang (when not in balance is at the root of diseases).

In China, acupuncture is used to treat various type of pain, neurological problems and stroke rehabilitation. In The Netherlands, is used for many complaints, such as stress, menopause, PMS, allergy, rheumatism, digestive disorders, respiratory problems, insomnia, among many others. In general Acupuncture works effectively to relieve pain and helps to prevent many diseases.

Acupuncture needles are typically made of stainless steel wire and they are usually disposable. Needles vary in length between 10 to 130 millimetres , with shorter needles used near the face and eyes, and longer needles in more fleshy areas; needle diameters vary from 0.16 mm to 0.35 mm with thicker needles used on more robust patients.  

Moxa and Cupping Therapy

As a complementary part of the traditional acupuncture treatment, beside needles, patients can be treated as well by Moxa & Cupping therapy, depending on the complaint.

Moxa is a herbal fiber burning that helps patients to restore their Yang Qi. By warming the body it is very good at treating coldness, weakness and painful diseases, especially caused by wind cold damp. Plus moxa on acupuncture points can also strengthen  an internal organ to prevent diseases.

Cupping it is a process to stimulate the meridians (tendons and muscles) by glass cups, (warmed by fire) or plastic cups. It promotes qi and blood circulation to relieve pain, clears internal heat to treat extra heat syndromes and treats many disorders  without much pain. The disadvantage is leaving purple spots in the body skin.