Cartilage is the thick, fibrous tissue that covers the ends of the bones where they meet inside the joints. It allows the surfaces of the bones to slide smoothly without rubbing or grinding. In joints like the knee, the cartilage, called the menisci, pad the projections (condyles) of the femur where they fit into corresponding groves in the tibia (the shinbone). The menisci act as shock absorbers against compressive forces, and like washers, add to the stability of the joint by creating a tighter fit.

If your injury was treated correctly when it first happened, there may be no Stage 2 symptoms and you can quickly return to your normal activities. However, if the injury was severe, or if stasis was not resolved in Stage 1, then Stage 2 treatment is usually necessary to complete the healing process and to prevent the injury becoming a chronic, Stage 3 injury.

In Chinese medicine, connective tissues around the joint are collectively referred to as Jin. Jin is often translated as ‘sinews’, a concept which includes tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and the fibrous connective tissue around the joint capsule. Interestingly, modern medicine recognizes that during early fetal development all of these tissues develop from one layer of cells, called the mesoderm.

Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs, help keep our Immune Systems Strong, but adding essential oils like Pine, Tea Tree, Rosemary, Eucalyptus and Lemon will prove to be invaluable.

An In-Depth Interview with Heiner Fruehauf

A while ago Heiner Fruehauf, PhD, LAc sat down with his student and colleague, Bob Quinn, DAOM, LAc to discuss the finer points of “Brain Gu” Syndrome, specifically as it pertains to the treatment of Lyme Disease. This discussion is best understood as a follow-up to and elaboration of the ideas presented in Heiner and Quinn’s earlier interview about Gu Syndrome published in the Fall of 2008. This interview has been updated with the inclusion of The New Heritage Formula Series of Herbal Products by Classical Pearls.

Infertility is a blanket term which describes the inability to conceive after trying for 12 months. My definition of infertility, however, is not conceiving after a year of timed intercourse. Sperm stays alive in the reproductive tract for between two and four days, so couples who have intercourse for the purpose of conception when their ovulation-predictor-kit indicates “peak” ovulation, are reducing their chances of getting pregnant.

Palmarosa is a cooling, nourishing, and calming oil with a sweet floral scent. Palmarosa is distilled from the fragrant grass and flowers and is similar in quality and functions of floral oils. Palmarosa has an affinity for the Lungs, Pericardium, and Liver. Palmarosa is native to the wetlands of  India.

Did you know that Chinese medicine has been treating nocturia (waking up at night to urinate) naturally with herbal soups?

Today many of us consider our pets as a true part of the family. Most every lifestyle comfort available to us has a counterpart aimed at our furry friends from accessories to junk foods to weddings and yoga classes. Healthcare is certainly no exception. The American Pet Products Association reported $48.35 billion dollars was spent on pet products and services in 2010 with $13 billion going to veterinary care.

Solomon Seal & Ginseng is a popular combination in Chinese medicine to strengthen the cardiovascular and respiratory system. This is perfect for those who are low on energy and recovering from chronic illness. Ask your herbal practitioner if this soup is right for you.

Did you know that Chinese medicine has been making delicious bone broth with medicinal benefits for thousands of years?

Eucommia Bone Soup for elderly lower back pain or to speed up recovery from bone fractures and tendon tears? You bet! In Chinese medicine, we use Eucommia Bark along with other herbs to optimize your body to speed up recovery. As we get older, our ability to recover from fractures & tendon tears decreases substantially. This simple recipe is especially beneficial for the elderly as it also helps build blood and boost essence. Ask your herbal practitioner if this soup is right for you.

Have you come across the term Custom Rx Labeling (CRL) Available on your Escript account and wonder what it is?  It is a powerful tool within Escript that can enhance the value of your prescription choice, increase compliance and ensures the safety and efficacy of products while providing transparency.  

Rigorous physical training can lead to chronic injuries which can affect performance or curtail training altogether. One chronic injury that can be particularly frustrating and debilitating is tendonitis. While tendonitis can be caused by a direct impact injury, more commonly it is the result of chronic misuse or overuse of the muscles around a joint. Most people who suffer from tendonitis cannot recall a specific injury, and there is usually no obvious acute stage accompanied by visible swelling or bruising.