Oriental Medicine is over 4000 years old and is based on the premise that inner balance is essential for good health. This balance is dynamic in nature and maintained between Yin and Yang, cold and hot, dark and light, female and male energies.

The smooth flow of Chi, a subtle invisible energy, is necessary to maintain this state of balance. Its abundance is influenced by our ancestral health, the food we eat, the air we breathe, our environment and our life style. When stress overwhelms our physiology, the flow of Chi is disrupted, symptoms ensue and eventually disease develops.

According to Oriental medicine this flow of Chi is distributed via 12 major meridians that course across the body, from head to toe, arms to chest. Every meridian has a set of points that act as a switchboard and when stimulated increase or decrease the flow of Chi.

In addition to needles, acupuncturists also use acupressure, cupping, moxabustion, qicong and tuina to open up these channels. For infants and children Sho Ni Shin is used instead of needles. This approach uses specific tools and gentle stroking massage techniques over the meridians. It benefits numerous conditions including colds and flu, cough, reflux, colic and digestive complaints.

Acupuncture and related techniques are generally recognized for pain relief however they can have a deep influence on a person's health especially when integrated with diet and life style modification. Restoring balance in the meridian system is very relaxing and rejuvenating experience and may last anywhere between 15 to 30 minutes. A treatment regimen may involve several sessions. Commonly people use acupuncture to maintain health once root imbalances have been resolved.

Chinese Herbal Medicine is unique in that it employs complex blends of leaves, fruits and roots. Over 5000 years ago, Chinese doctors learned through clinical experience that some plants had warming qualities, such as ginger and other plants had cooling properties such as peppermint. They also learned that some plants had a greater affinity for the liver, while other influence the digestive system. Recent research indicates that some Chinese herbal blends have anti-cancer benefits.

An Oriental Medical Practitioner takes a detailed history, uses pulse and tongue diagnosis to assess the health of the patient. At the Maes Center for Natural Health Care the treatment regimen recommended may include Acupuncture, Shiatsu, Herbal Medicine, LaStone Therapy and Lifestyle Counseling.