by urban-acupuncture | Jun 1, 2025 | Holistic Health, Treatments
Ways Herbal Medicines Affect the Immune System
Herbal medicines can impact the immune system in cancer patients by acting as immunomodulators, which means they can enhance, restore, or modify the immune response. This is crucial in cancer treatment, as cancer often evades immune surveillance due to its low immunogenicity. Here are some ways herbal medicines affect the immune system:
Impact of Herbal Medicines on the Immune System
- Immunomodulation
Herbal medicines like Ganoderma lucidum (reishi mushroom), Sophora flavescens, and Scutellaria baicalensis have been shown to stimulate the immune system by activating macrophages, T lymphocytes, and natural killer (NK) cells. These cells play a key role in recognizing and eliminating cancer cells.
- Enhancing Innate Immunity
Herbs such as Astragalus membranaceus and Panax ginseng are known to increase white blood cell counts, which can help restore immune function in cancer patients. This is particularly important during chemotherapy, which can suppress the immune system.
- Regulation of Tumor Microenvironment (TME)
Some herbal compounds can regulate the TME by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic effects on tumors. This regulation helps in creating an environment unfavorable for cancer growth and progression.
- Adjuvant Effects
Herbal medicines can also enhance the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy, potentially improving treatment outcomes. For example, certain herbs may increase the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic agents by modulating immune responses.
- Safety Considerations
While herbal medicines are generally considered natural and safe, they can interact with conventional treatments or have side effects, especially in high doses or with prolonged use. It’s essential for cancer patients to consult healthcare providers before using herbal remedies.
Several herbal remedies have shown promise in cancer treatment, although they are generally used as complementary therapies rather than replacements for conventional treatments. Here are some of the most promising herbal remedies:
Promising Herbal Remedies for Cancer Treatment
- Turmeric/Curcumin
Turmeric contains curcumin, which has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is used for both cancer prevention and treatment.
- Ginger
Ginger has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects in lab studies. It is particularly effective in reducing chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting.
- Astragalus
Astragalus may reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea and fatigue, and improve quality of life for cancer patients. It is often used in combination with conventional treatments.
- Dong Quai
Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, dong quai may offer protective effects against heart damage caused by certain chemotherapy drugs. However, its safety and efficacy for cancer treatment need further research.
- Moringa Tree
Moringa has been shown to kill ovarian cancer cells in test tube studies and may help alleviate symptoms such as difficulty breathing and joint pain.
- Berberine
This compound, found in plants like goldenseal and barberry, has shown promise in fighting lung cancer in laboratory experiments.
- Essiac Tea
While not proven to cure cancer, Essiac tea contains antioxidants that may help manage symptoms and support overall health.
- Ginseng
Ginseng is believed to reduce inflammation and tumor growth and protect healthy cells from damage. It is often used to mitigate chemotherapy side effects.
- Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola)
This herb has shown potential as an anticancer agent by inhibiting tumor cell proliferation in animal studies.
- Phyllanthus amarus
Known for its antitumor effects, this plant may inhibit carcinogenic compound activation and induce cell cycle arrest.
While these herbal remedies show promise, it’s crucial to consult with healthcare providers before using them, as they may interact with conventional treatments or have side effects.
Learn More About Herbal Therapy at UAC…
Contact Urban Acupuncture Center in Columbus, OH For More Information
For more information about how acupuncture, massage therapy, electroacupuncture and other alternative healing treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Columbus, Ohio (Clintonville) (614) 725-2488 or click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.
by urban-acupuncture | May 21, 2025 | Holistic Health
Join Ian for a Sitting Meditation Workshop! Sunday, June 1st from 2 – 3:30 pm
Meditation works like observer phenomenon in quantum mechanics in which the act of observing the process, changes it. If you know you are being watched, your behavior changes. Apparently this is true for people, brains, and particles! In this case, meditation allows us to observe how our mind functions in relation to the world and subsequently reprogram our habitual reactivity. Teaching the mind to settle (or focus) on one object improves our ability to choose in life.
Meditation helps calm the nervous system, improve emotional awareness and regulation, and increase neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity is the extraordinary ability of the brain to adapt, change, and rewire itself in response to activities or experiences that stimulate it. Meditation can actually strengthen existing neural pathways, create new ones, or weaken existing ones that are no longer benefitting you.
Ian will cover the underlying concepts of how and why meditation is so impactful along with:
- Prepping the body for stretching & meditation posture
- Methods of practice &
- Practical applications
This workshop is for anyone (of any age) looking for tools to ease anxiety, calm their nervous system, improve emotional awareness & regulation, increase neuroplasticity, or just wanting to live a clearer, more intentional life. Meditation is one of myriad instruments that can guide you throughout a lifelong journey of growth and healing.
As always, please call the office if you have additional questions (614) 725-2488.
Contact Urban Acupuncture Center in Columbus, OH For More Information
For more information about how acupuncture, massage therapy, electroacupuncture and other alternative healing treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Columbus, Ohio (Clintonville) (614) 725-2488 or click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.
by urban-acupuncture | May 1, 2025 | Holistic Health, Treatments
What is Herbal Medicine Therapy?
Herbal medicine, also known as botanical medicine or phytomedicine, involves using plants or plant extracts like seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, or flowers to treat illnesses and enhance overall health. It has ancient origins and is used to prevent or cure disease, relieve symptoms, boost energy, relax, or lose weight.
- How it works Herbal medicine aims to restore the body so it can protect, regulate, and heal itself, taking a whole-body approach that considers physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
- Forms Herbal supplements are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, teas, extracts, and fresh or dried plants. They can be swallowed as pills, brewed as tea, used on the skin as gels or creams, or added to bath water.
- Regulation Herbal remedies are a type of dietary supplement but are not regulated or tested like medicines.
- Western herbal medicine Focuses on treating the whole person, considering their health history, family history, diet, and lifestyle, and commonly uses European and North American herbs.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Uses hundreds of medicinal substances from plants, combining different plant parts into teas, capsules, tinctures, or powders.
Common Herbs Used and Their Potential Benefits:
- Chamomile: Used as a remedy for nausea and upper respiratory infections.
- Dong quai: Used for gynecological complaints such as premenstrual tension, menopause symptoms, and period pain.
- Echinacea: Used to stimulate the immune system and aid the body in fighting infection.
- Elderberry: Primarily marketed as a treatment for symptoms associated with the flu and common cold.
- Turmeric: Contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may inhibit the growth of cancer cells. To increase absorption, it can be mixed with black pepper and olive oil.
- Ginger: May effectively reduce nausea (including motion sickness), vomiting, and pain associated with cancer treatments. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects in lab studies.
- Garlic: Used to reduce the risk of heart disease and fight colds and respiratory infections. May reduce tumor growth and help protect healthy cells from damage caused by chemotherapy drugs. It also helps boost the immune system.
- Ginseng: Generally used to treat fatigue. May reduce inflammation and cancer tumor growth and protect healthy cells from damage.
- Essiac Tea: Contains herbs known for their immune-boosting effects and is rich in antioxidants.
- Cayenne Pepper: Contains capsaicin, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that is toxic to cancer cells and helps prevent their growth.
- Ginkgo: Used to treat poor blood circulation and tinnitus. Contains ginkgolides, which possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using herbal medicine, as some herbs can cause harm or interact with medications.
What Herbal Medicine Therapy Treats:
- Allergies and Asthma: Herbal medicine is used to treat allergies and asthma.
- Anxiety and Depression: Herbal medicine can help people relax and cope with anxiety and depression. St. John’s wort is known for its antidepressant effects. Valerian root is often used as a natural sleep and anti-anxiety aid.
- Cancer: Herbal medicine is one of the most used complementary and alternative therapies by people with cancer. Some herbal remedies might prevent or relieve cancer symptoms and help with treatment side effects.
- Cardiovascular Conditions: Garlic is generally used for cardiovascular conditions, including high cholesterol and triglyceride levels linked to atherosclerosis. Other herbs are used for several heart-related conditions, such as angina, atherosclerosis, heart failure, and high blood pressure.
- Chronic Fatigue: Herbal medicine is used to treat chronic fatigue.
- Colds and Flu: Echinacea is used to stimulate the immune system and aid the body in fighting infection, such as colds and flu. Elderberry is primarily marketed as a treatment for symptoms associated with the flu and common cold.
- Eczema: Herbal medicine is used to treat eczema.
- Gynaecological Complaints: Dong quai is used for gynaecological complaints such as premenstrual tension, menopause symptoms, and period pain. Feverfew’s pain-relieving properties have been used for menstrual cramps.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Herbal medicine is used to treat irritable bowel syndrome.
- Migraine: Herbal medicine is used to treat migraine. The pain-relieving properties of feverfew have been used for migraine headaches.
- Nausea: Ginger has been shown to be useful in treating nausea, including motion sickness and morning sickness. Chamomile has been used as a remedy for nausea.
- Prostate Issues: Saw palmetto is used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland.
- Respiratory Infections: Garlic’s antibiotic and antiviral properties mean that it is also used to fight colds, sinusitis, and other respiratory infections. Chamomile has been used as a remedy for upper respiratory infections.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia: Herbal medicine is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia.
It is best to take herbal supplements under the guidance of a trained provider. Since herbal medicines can potentially interact with prescription medications and may worsen certain medical conditions, be sure to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any herbs.
Learn More about Herbal Medicine Therapy at UAC…
Contact Urban Acupuncture Center in Columbus, OH For More Information and Treatment Options
For more information about how acupuncture, massage therapy, electroacupuncture and other alternative healing treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Columbus, Ohio (Clintonville) (614) 725-2488 or click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.
by urban-acupuncture | Apr 1, 2025 | Holistic Health, Treatments
Gong Sound Baths, Gua Sha, and Singing Bowls – Book Your Appointment Today!
In today’s fast-paced world, stress and anxiety have become common challenges, making relaxation and mindfulness more important than ever. Ancient healing techniques such as gong sound baths, Gua Sha, and singing bowls offer powerful ways to promote deep relaxation, meditation, and stress reduction. These practices, rooted in traditional medicine and sound therapy, help harmonize the mind and body, fostering a sense of balance and well-being.
Gong Sound Baths: Immersion in Healing Vibrations
A gong sound bath is a form of sound therapy where participants are immersed in the deep, resonant vibrations of gongs. Unlike a traditional bath, this experience involves “bathing” in sound waves, which stimulate the body’s natural healing processes and promote deep relaxation.
Benefits of Gong Sound Baths
- Reduces Stress & Anxiety: Gong vibrations interact with the brain’s frequencies, shifting the mind from an active state (beta waves) to a relaxed state (alpha and theta waves), leading to deep relaxation.
- Enhances Meditation: The continuous sound helps quiet mental chatter, allowing for deeper focus and mindfulness.
- Encourages Emotional Release: Vibrations can help release stored emotions and energy blockages, promoting emotional balance.
- Improves Sleep & Mental Clarity: Many participants experience improved sleep patterns and greater mental clarity after sessions.
- Supports Physical Well-being: The frequencies of gongs may also reduce pain, improve circulation, and boost immune function.
What to Expect in a Gong Sound Bath Session
A typical session lasts 45 to 90 minutes and includes:
- Intention Setting: Participants set a personal intention for relaxation or healing.
- Comfortable Positioning: Lying on mats or cushions for comfort.
- Breathwork & Grounding: Some sessions start with guided breathing exercises.
- Immersion in Sound: Gongs create a layered vibrational experience, often described as a “massage for the mind and body.”
- Gradual Closing: Gentle sounds help transition participants back to full awareness.
Singing Bowls: Harmonizing Body and Mind
Similar to gong sound baths, singing bowls are used for meditation, relaxation, and healing. These bowls, typically made from metal or crystal, produce soothing tones when struck or played with a mallet.
Benefits of Singing Bowls
- Promotes Deep Relaxation: The gentle, harmonic vibrations induce a meditative state.
- Balances Energy Centers: Singing bowls are often used in chakra balancing practices.
- Enhances Emotional Well-being: The tones help release emotional blockages and reduce stress.
- Aids in Sleep & Mental Focus: Regular use of singing bowls has been linked to improved sleep and concentration.
Singing bowls are commonly used in yoga, meditation, and holistic healing sessions. Their frequencies resonate with different energy centers in the body, helping to restore balance.
Gua Sha: Physical and Energetic Healing
While sound healing works on a vibrational level, Gua Sha is a physical practice that complements sound therapy by promoting circulation and releasing tension. Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese healing technique that involves using a smooth-edged tool to gently scrape the skin, stimulating blood flow and reducing inflammation.
Benefits of Gua Sha
- Reduces Muscle Tension: Helps relieve stiffness and pain by improving circulation.
- Enhances Lymphatic Drainage: Supports detoxification and reduces puffiness.
- Boosts Energy Flow (Qi): Restores balance in the body’s energy pathways.
- Promotes Skin Health: Increases collagen production, improving skin texture and glow.
Gua Sha is often practiced alongside meditation and sound healing to enhance relaxation and physical well-being. It can be used on the face, neck, and body to release tension and improve overall vitality.
Integrating Gong Sound Baths, Singing Bowls, and Gua Sha for Holistic Healing
Combining these three healing modalities can create a powerful self-care routine that nurtures both the body and mind. Here’s how they work together:
- Start with Gua Sha: Begin by gently massaging the face or body to release tension and improve circulation.
- Follow with a Singing Bowl Session: Let the harmonic tones calm your nervous system and bring mental clarity.
- End with a Gong Sound Bath: Allow the deep vibrations to guide you into a meditative and restful state.
This combination of physical touch, vibration, and sound healing creates a comprehensive experience that supports relaxation, mindfulness, and holistic well-being.
A Journey to Inner Peace
Incorporating gong sound baths, singing bowls, and Gua Sha into your wellness routine can lead to profound relaxation, stress reduction, and emotional balance. Whether you’re looking for a meditative escape, relief from anxiety, or a way to deepen your mind-body connection, these ancient practices offer a holistic path to healing and self-care.
Would you like to explore more about sound healing and alternative therapies? Contact Urban Acupuncture Center in Columbus, OH for more information…
For more information about how acupuncture, massage therapy, electroacupuncture and other alternative healing treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Columbus, Ohio (Clintonville) (614) 725-2488 or click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.
by urban-acupuncture | Jan 9, 2025 | Holistic Health
Join Raj for a FULL MOON Gong bath this Sunday, January 12th @ 2:00 p.m.
She will also offer gong baths on Sunday, February 9th & Sunday, March 16th. Sign up under classes or call the office.
A full moon gong bath is a unique and deeply meditative sound healing experience that uses the vibrational energy of gongs, often aligned with the powerful energy of a full moon. Participants are “bathed” in sound waves, allowing their bodies, minds, and spirits to relax, heal, and reset. It is a holistic practice rooted in ancient traditions but has gained popularity in modern wellness practices for its profound physical and emotional benefits.
What Happens During a Full Moon Gong Bath?
- Preparation and Setting:
- The session typically begins with participants lying on mats or seated comfortably. They are encouraged to relax, close their eyes, and focus on their breath.
- The space is often dimly lit, with candles or crystals used to enhance the ambiance.
- The Gong’s Vibrations:
- A gong master plays one or multiple gongs, producing resonant tones and sound vibrations. These sounds range from deep, grounding tones to high, ethereal pitches.
- The sound waves penetrate deeply, creating a physical sensation that many describe as soothing or transformative.
- The Full Moon Connection:
- The full moon is believed to amplify the effects of the gong bath. Traditionally associated with heightened energy, intuition, and emotional release, the full moon adds an extra layer of potency to the experience.
- Practitioners may incorporate themes of letting go, setting intentions, or connecting with cosmic cycles.
What Does a Gong Bath Do?
- Physical Benefits:
- Stress Reduction: The deep vibrations of the gong stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
- Improved Sleep: Many participants report better sleep after a session due to the calming effects on the body and mind.
- Pain Relief: Sound waves can help release muscle tension and improve circulation, reducing physical discomfort.
- Emotional Benefits:
- Emotional Release: The vibrations can bring suppressed emotions to the surface, facilitating catharsis and emotional healing.
- Clarity and Balance: The gong bath helps quiet the mind, providing clarity and a sense of inner balance.
- Spiritual Benefits:
- Energy Alignment: The sound frequencies help balance chakras and realign your body’s energy.
- Connection to the Universe: The full moon adds a spiritual dimension, fostering a sense of connection to larger cosmic rhythms.
Who Can Benefit from a Full Moon Gong Bath?
- Stressed Individuals:
Anyone dealing with high levels of stress or anxiety can benefit from the relaxation and grounding effects.
- People Seeking Emotional Healing:
Those looking to release emotional blockages or gain clarity in their lives often find the gong bath transformative.
- Spiritual Seekers:
For individuals exploring spirituality, the full moon’s energy combined with the gong’s vibrations can deepen meditation and foster a sense of universal connection.
- Insomniacs:
The calming effects of a gong bath are particularly beneficial for those struggling with sleep issues.
- Creative Thinkers:
Artists, writers, and other creatives may find that the meditative state induced by a gong bath inspires new ideas and fresh perspectives.
How to Prepare for a Full Moon Gong Bath
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Loose, breathable fabrics will help you fully relax.
- Bring Essentials: A yoga mat, blanket, and pillow will ensure you’re comfortable throughout the session.
- Set Intentions: Reflect on what you’d like to release or invite into your life during the experience.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water before and after to support your body’s natural detoxification process.
A full moon gong bath is more than just a relaxing experience; it’s a holistic journey that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, emotional healing, or a deeper connection to the universe, this ancient practice offers profound benefits that resonate on multiple levels.
Contact Urban Acupuncture Center in Columbus, OH For More Information
For more information about how acupuncture, massage therapy, electroacupuncture and other alternative healing treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Columbus, Ohio (Clintonville) (614) 725-2488 or click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.
by urban-acupuncture | Dec 5, 2024 | Acupuncture, Holistic Health, Treatments
Winter can be emotionally challenging.
With shorter days, lower energy levels, and pressure brought on by the holidays contributing to feelings of sadness or lack of motivation. Acupuncture offers a natural way to lift your mood, improve focus, and help you feel like yourself again. By supporting your body’s stress response and improving circulation, acupuncture enhances mental clarity and emotional resilience. Many patients notice better energy, reduced anxiety, and improved mood after regular treatments.
We often help patients struggling with:
? Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
? Low motivation or energy
? Stress-related fatigue
? Feeling overwhelmed
? Difficulty concentrating or staying focused
? Emotional imbalances related to winter blues
Find your balance this season. In addition to acupuncture, find a little something daily to boost your mood. Do you like to read, paint, converse with friends, cook, exercise–whatever it is, make time to replenish your energy. Winter is a season for hibernation. It’s OK to stay in and re-cooperate, re-balance, and rest. But if you choose to go out, we are ready to help you manage the long, dark, cold days of winter!
Contact Urban Acupuncture Center in Columbus, OH For More Information
For more information about how acupuncture, massage therapy, electroacupuncture and other alternative healing treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Columbus, Ohio (Clintonville) (614) 725-2488 or click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.
