how herbal medicine and acupuncture work together

When you’re looking for holistic treatments, it’s often best to explore multiple options. In fact, treatments like acupuncture and herbal medicine can work together as an effective approach for everything from chronic pain and digestive disorders to hormonal imbalances and stress. 

If you’re looking for treatments that support both your mental and physical well-being with limited to no side effects, a holistic healing journey is right for you. Our team at Willow Tree Clinic is dedicated to comprehensive support that aligns with recommendations from your existing healthcare team. 

We’re dedicated to creating personalized plans that meet your needs. Book a consultation with us today to get started!

What is Acupuncture and How Does It Work?

A medical professional performing an acupuncture treatment on a patient's leg for fertility.

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine treatment that aims to restore balance throughout your body by activating your acupoints. 

Using thin, sterile needles, acupuncture specialists gently insert them into your acupoints, which aren’t deep into the skin. Patients might feel minimal discomfort but don’t typically feel any pain from treatments. 

By stimulating your acupoints, acupuncture activates your nervous system, increases blood circulation, relaxes your muscles, and more. Treatments are especially helpful for pain management, chronic stress and anxiety, fertility and reproductive health, and digestive issues. 

Understanding Herbal Medicine

Around 40% of the pharmaceutical products we use day-to-day are already drawn from nature. Herbal medicine is all about leveraging the natural state of herbs, plants, and minerals rather than the synthetic versions used throughout Western medicine. 

Unlike pharmaceuticals that take a one-size-fits-most approach, herbal medicine allows you to customize your treatment to your exact needs. Patients who use herbal medicine may experience fewer side effects because of the more personalized approach. Herbal medicine also goes beyond symptoms to address the root cause of what you’re experiencing. 

Why Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Make a Powerful Pair

Acupuncture and herbal medicine offer a powerful treatment method because they work hand-in-hand to target health issues, increasing overall efficacy. Combining the two ensures that you’re receiving internal and external treatment to relieve symptoms and address the root cause of your conditions. 

For example, acupuncture is known to help lower stress levels through muscle relaxation, while herbal medicines can also promote mental clarity and calm. 

Because holistic treatments focus on comprehensive health rather than individual symptoms, acupuncture and herbal medicine are also beneficial for conditions that require multi-faceted treatment. 

Common Scenarios Where This Combo Shines

The following conditions can be the best candidates for acupuncture and herbal medicine treatments: 

  • Chronic pain – Much pain is due to inflammation, which acupuncture can directly address through improved circulation. Herbal medicine can also help relieve inflammation internally. 
  • Stress, anxiety, and depression – Acupuncture works to physically calm and relax the body, while herbal medicine can promote calming feelings and greater emotional stability. 
  • Digestive disorders – Acupuncture helps regulate the nervous system and can increase blood flow to the stomach, while herbal medicine can regulate gut imbalances to promote healthy digestion. 
  • Sleep disorders – Along with relaxing your body, acupuncture can also regulate your hormones to aid in healthier, natural sleep. When paired with herbal medicine, you can develop a sleep routine that relaxes your mind at night and helps you fall asleep faster. 
  • Infertility and reproductive issues – Acupuncture increases blood flow, regulates hormones, and reduces stress, which can all lead to increased fertility. At the same time, herbal medicine can help regulate menstruation and hormones. 
  • Skin conditions – Improved circulation from acupuncture can help relieve skin conditions, while herbal medicine works internally to reduce toxins or gut issues that may be causing skin conditions. 

What to Expect from Treatment

a woman sitting at a table holding a woman's hand

If you’re ready to get started with an acupuncture and herbal medicine treatment, you can count on a personalized plan to meet your needs. 

At Willow Tree Clinic, we always start with an in-person consultation to discuss your needs and collaboratively put together a customized care plan. Your plan can include acupuncture sessions as well as herbal remedies that work hand-in-hand to offer integrated care. 

Throughout your treatment plan and acupuncture sessions, we’ll continue to check in with you and the rest of your care team to make sure that you’re seeing the results you need. Book your initial consultation to begin your holistic health journey!

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