Blog

Healing Chilblains Holistically

Disclaimer: The following advice is meant for educational and informative purposes only. If you are suffering with an chilblains or a circulatory pathology, please see a licensed healthcare practitioner.

Chilblains is a condition in which the toes or fingers, sometimes both, develop itchiness, swelling and discoloration. Chilblains typically occur when the feet or hands have been warmed too quickly after exposure to prolonged cold conditions. The pathogenesis is similar to how pipes burst during freezing weather. The extreme cold creates stagnation, and this pressure puts stress on the vasculature. Subsequently, if significant heat is applied suddenly, as in the case of a hot bath or the heat of a strong fire, then this can put even more stress on the cutaneous circulation. The heat can injure the skin, and the toes or fingers might be too numb to register the pain from overheating. As the cold hands or feet are warmed too quickly, vascular ruptures and inflammatory responses occur. This results in the itchy lesions associated with Chilblains.

When the weather is very cold, our body tends to send the majority of blood to our viscera and core. As the limbs are warmed, the blood flows back into the fingers and toes. Even without cold weather, a person can have poor circulation that inhibits the flow of blood to the extremities. For this reason, chilblains can occur in some people, even in the absence of cold weather. Additionally, if you have a history of injury to the foot or ankle, or conditions like diabetes, the circulation might be naturally impaired, thus creating a propensity toward such ailments as chilblains.

Some people recently mentioned that COVID-19 is associated with chilblains like afflictions. According to research, there was actually no correlation between chilblains and COVID, except for a single doctor who tested positive. So, try not to panic or presume you have a deathly virus, if you get chilblains.

The researchers, therefore, conclude that these patients were not infected with COVID-19. Instead, the two events may be linked in some other way. For instance, the lockdown may have led to lifestyle changes that may have increased the risk of chilblains, such as not going to work and increased sedentary lifestyle activities.

Dr. Liji Thomas, MD
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20200626/Chilblains-and-COVID-19.aspx

If the chilblains have suppurated or become open sores, it is a good idea to visit a doctor for investigation of potential infections, and to acquire antibiotic creams.

Though there are complex etiologies and differentiations for every individual’s chilblains, the cure consistently centers around mobilizing blood flow to bring oxygen and nutrients to the injured skin. This can be achieved with self-massage of the foot and toes. Using an oil, like castor oil or olive oil, is highly recommended. The oil can help hydrate and lubricate the tissues of the skin that were damaged. Oils often have antibacterial and anti fungal effects, too. This can help prevent potential infections of the tissue.

I used all my acupuncture tools to heal my chilblains. Electro-moxa, and cupping, and guasha, among other techniques.

Techniques like Acupuncture, moxibustion, tuina, cupping and guasha are well known to reduce blood stagnation, release inflammation and improve oxygenation of tissues. I utilized these techniques directly on the afflicted foot. The toes were sore and achey to the touch, but symptoms reduced with consistent work and treatment. I did this about twice a day, and the symptoms resolved within a week. While some discomfort is normal to be felt during these procedures, you should avoid overstimulating the skin. It is better to do gentle rubbing of the skin surface, to invigorate the blood flow, rather than strong deep tissue work or acupressure. I highly recommend finding a licensed acupuncturist to help you in your recovery~

Tsubo-kyu Ibuki Moxa, applied to local points for improving circulation to the afflicted toes. The heat from Moxa brings flesh blood to the skin via improved circulation.

I used my own home made salve consisting of Frankinense and Myrrh, and this was a great help to the pain and discomfort. If you’re interested in it; I’ve listed it on my Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/jacobsapothecary

It reduced my itching, and helped the swelling go down. I definitely recommend it in your recovery! It makes a good massage oil for the toes, and it smells pleasantly fragrant. Again, you can find it here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/jacobsapothecary

In addition to those techniques, herbal formulae can help a lot. Formulae like Juan Bi Tang or Du Huo Ji Sheng Wan can help warm and improve circulation to the extremities. These formulae can also be added to foot baths with your favorite oil, for a very soothing experience. Your local acupuncturist can help find a good herbal formula for you, to help treat and prevent chilblains.

Things you should avoid are exposing the fingers or toes to extreme temperatures. Try to always wear socks during cold weather, and do not walk bare foot on icy, cold surfaces. If you feet or hands are exposed to cold for long periods, try to warm them gradually. Do not put them into super hot water immediately. It is better to start lukewarm, and work your way up, so there’s no shock to the cutaneous tissues.

It is likely that most people will passively heal from chilblains, so long as the weather warms. However, in more severe cases, they can linger and become a bigger issue. These techniques could help prevent chronic symptoms from arising, and even potentially reverse damage and symptoms that are lingering. If you are struggling with chilblains, try these techniques to help your toes and fingers heal. If you find there’s no improvements, make sure to visit a trusted healthcare practitioner that can help you.

Medical Astrology

Did you know that Astrology was once popularly used by herbalists and physicians to help understand the manifestation of disease? The Egyptians, Chinese, Ancient Greeks and Native Americans all had very complex systems of relating the stars to our health, and many of these philosophies are still used by modern herbalists.

The ancients created entire medical treatises based on philosophies regarding humanity’s relationship to the cosmos. Plants, animals, minerals and humans were all believed to be entangled with the energies of the stars and planets, which, at that time, had been labeled and interpreted as Gods.

Herbs were interpreted by their shape, smell, color, flavor, among other factors. This system of using an herbs appearance has become popularly known as the Doctrine of Signatures. The image of a plant could be used to associate with a planet. For example, spiky and thorny plants like thistles tended to be associated with Mars. Very moist plants like Aloe Vera are associated with the Moon. The list goes on, and can vary according to the season, the geography, and even the part of the plant can have differing qualities.

The famed herbalist Nicholas Culpeper gifted the world with his fantastic herbal, in which he not only applied the Doctrine of Signatures, but also explained the planetary virtues and influences upon plant life in a concise way that could help contemporary practitioners. Nicholas Culpeper was apart of a long line of astrologer-herbalists that were sensitive to the influences of cosmological and celestial influence on the anatomical, chemical and biological components of earthly life.

In Effigiam Nicholai Culpeper Equitis by Richard Gaywood

According to the astrologer-herbalists, the elemental nuances of the Zodiac are imbued into human beings and plants. At the time of our birth, we emerge in response to seasonal stimuli that are most conducive to our own energies. We are inextricably tethered to the energies of the cosmos. Each Zodiac sign has traditions associations with the anatomy. They are as follows:

ZodiacBody Part
AriesThe Head
TaurusThe Neck
GeminiThe Arms
CancerStomach and Breats
LeoThe Heart and Spine
VirgoSmall Intestine and Lower Abdomen
LibraKidneys and Lumbar Region
ScorpioThe Genitals, Anus
SagittariusThe Thighs and Liver
CapricornThe Knees and Bones
AquariusThe Calves and Ankles
PiscesThe Feet and Lymphatic System

Naturally, there are disagreements about associations and sometimes these associations are mixed and matched according to different traditions. But, as you can see, the general pattern is sequentially arranged to parallel the Zodiac, initiating with the head as Aries and terminating with Pisces at the feet.

In the same way that a particular flower is urged to bloom in a certain season, so too do humans arise with seasons that are quintessentially aligned with the celestial and seasonal influences. Yet, as time moves on, we come into conflict with planetary arrangements that are averse to our own nature. A person with heavy influences from Mars might develop bleeding disorders or anger and madness. A person with distinct attachments to Saturn, is likely to be afflicted with melancholy and various blockages.

It becomes even more complex, as each planet has its own elemental character, and can come into harmony or conflict with the sign it is in. This is how much discord can arise, both in the Earth’s seasons, and our own health. When a Planet enters a sign, it exerts an influence, which can be exacerbated or attenuated based on its harmony with the zodiac phase it is most accordant with.

PlanetsZodiac Rulership(s)Associations
SunLeoFire, Yang, Vitality, Cardiac function, Spine
MoonCancerWater, Yin, Moisture, Rest, Sleep, Dreams
MercuryGemini, VirgoAir, Duality, Respiration, Nervous System, Cognition
VenusTaurus, LibraYin, Sex, Feminity, Beauty, Thyroid
EarthTaurusYin, Earth, Water,
MarsAries, ScorpioFire, Masculinity, Yang, Vascular System, Gallbladder
JupiterSagittarius, PiscesYang, Wind, Sanguine, Liver,
SaturnCapricorn, AquariusYin, Earth, Bones, Spleen,
UranusAquariusYang, Air, Nervous System, Technology, Computation
NeptunePiscesYin, Drugs, Visions, Lymphatic System
PlutoScorpioYang, Genitals, Secrets, Death, Occult

All of this might seem confusing without an illustration. For example, let’s say a person who was born with Mars (Fire/Heat) in Taurus (Throat) is experiencing a sore, inflamed throat with cough after eating spicy food—something they likely have a sensitivity to, with this planetary position. Herbs that counter the influence of Mars can then be used to help heal the inflammation. Peppermint, which is allegedly ruled by Venus, and could be used here to assist the individual. Conversely, if the issue is one of damp, phlegm, as one might see with the Moon or Neptune in Taurus, then herbs of Mars could be quite helpful in drying out the moisture.

The herbalists of ancient China also saw that plants had a deep association with seasonal and planetary cycles. The ancient sages used the system of Wu Xing, alongside Taoist cosmology, to interpret the energies and functions of botanicals. In Wu Xing, the philosophy of the five phases maps out the transformation of elemental energies. Some of the most pertinent associated between seasonality and our anatomy are listed below.

  • Spring : Wood : Liver and Gallbladder
  • Summer : Fire : Heart, Pericardium, Small Intestine and Sanjiao
  • Late-Summer : Earth : Spleen and Stomach
  • Autumn: Metal : Lungs and Large Intestine
  • Winter : Water : Kidneys & Bladder

Some people are more fiery, some more earthy, others more watery or airy. Of course, there are many different mixtures on a constantly fluctuating cosmic continuum of space and time!

The practitioners of medical astrology would use decombitures, typically using the time of birth of the afflicted person, but also utilizing the chart of the hour of the intervention. At the time of one’s birth, the planetary arrangement in the signs can confer health or disease. Planets have signs they favor, and signs that can disrupt their harmony, leading to chronic complications. As time goes on, a person’s “natal energies” will often come into conflict with the planetary aspects of the present.

The nature of an illness would then be associated with certain planets. Herbs which then countered that planet’s nature were then administered to assuage the symptoms and heal the person. Herbs typically have a relationship of sympathy, antipathy, homeopathy. The best herb for each situation is contingent on the elemental profile of the individual and their disease.

Medical astrology is a very curious and nebulous subject. It can be a very interesting way to understand the chronic issues you face in your body. It isn’t a replacement for conventional medical interventions, but might help you live a better life as you deepen your comprehension of your own personal, celestial portrait. If you ever want assistance in decoding your natal chart, please reach out! I am glad to help.

Healing Rotator Cuff Injuries with Acupuncture and Guasha

Disclaimer: The following advice is meant for educational and informative purposes only. If you are suffering with a rotator cuff pathology, please see a licensed healthcare practitioner.

What is a rotator cuff?

A rotator cuff is comprised of four important muscles known as the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor and subscapularis. These muscles help bind the head of the humerus to the glenoid fossa of the scapula. Each rotator cuff muscle has a unique function in maneuvering the shoulder and arm. They are as follows:

When one or more of these muscles is torn, injured, tense or inflamed, you are sure to experience symptoms like shoulder pain, neck pain, limited range of motion, neuropathy (radiating pain, tingling and numbness), difficulty sleeping due to pain, and many other issues.

The muscles of the rotator cuff are involved in many movements, and such actions like brushing your hair or lifting and rotating your arm. However, even movements involving your neck could irritate the pain.

Sometimes the rotator cuff disorder is due to a sudden physical trauma, which tears one or more of the rotator cuff muscles. I personally tore my rotator cuff during a “trust fall”—someone fell forcefully on my right forearm, and I felt my Supraspinatus “pop.” You might recall a pop happening before your symptoms manifested. The location of the pop is likely the muscle/ligament that was torn. Even if the tear was only on one side, both shoulders, or the opposite shoulder can exhibit symptoms.

These tears are especially common in sports, which is reflected in the alternative names for rotator cuff tendinitis: Swimmer’s Shoulder, Tennis Shoulder, Pitcher’s Shoulder. Moving your arms repeatedly over head, a pictured below, can be an origin of rotator cuff injury, too.

In foreground, a woman is exercising, extending and abducting the left arm with a pink barbell held in right arm. In the background, there are other women, in the same posture.
Photo by bruce mars on Pexels.com

However, a slow build up of tension and inflammation, as well as poor posture, can also irritate the rotator cuff. Tension in the muscles of the neck can compress the vertebrae and impair the flow of qi and blood. The rotator cuff muscles are innervated by nerves that exit the cervical vertebrae. Those of us that have long sessions of looking at our phone are very likely to experience chronic rotator cuff issues, for this reason. Constantly staring down at screens will stress the cervical nerves.

…When myofascial pain is referred to the shoulder joint, the infraspinatus, Supraspinatus, and sometimes the levator scapula muscles are its most likely muscular sources. (Page 556)

Travell, J. G., Simons, D. G., & Simons, L. S. (1999). Myofascial pain and dysfunction: the trigger point manual: Vol. 1:Upper half of body. Baltimore: Williams & Wilkins.

Just being stressed out can cause your shoulders to scrunch up, so the origin of rotator cuff issues is can definitely be psychogenic in pathogenesis. To further complicate matters, tension in unrelated parts of your body, like the hips, can exacerbate the issues in your arm. This can really make sleeping difficult, as one struggles to find the right position to rest without pain.

A rotator cuff tear can seriously change your life. Sometimes people undergo surgery to repair the rotator cuff, but there are alternatives that can help you avoid such interventions. Even after rotator cuff surgery, therapies like Acupuncture, Qi Gong, and Herbalism can help reduce shoulder inflammation and improve your quality of life.

An Acupuncturist’s Approach to the Rotator Cuff

In Chinese Medicine, there are several important meridians that travel through the shoulder. They are as follows:

  • Large Intestine-Yangming Meridian
  • Lung-Taiyin Meridian
  • Pericardium-Jueyin Meridian
  • Sanjiao-Shaoyang Meridian
  • Heart-Taiyin Meridian
  • Small Intestine-Taiyang Meridian

These meridians traverse the neck and head, the shoulders, and extend into the fingers (they even go inward and connect to the internal organs and other meridians). If you’ve suffered from a rotator cuff tear, you might have noticed how the injury afflicts your forearm, fingers and wrist. Tingling and numbness, sudden surges of pain, popping and crunching, are a few of the common symptoms you might experience. The trajectories of these symptoms can mimic the meridians and also the dermatomes associated with the nerves that exit the cervical vertebrae.

Many painful points on the arm can arise after a rotator cuff tear, as the glenohumeral joint is not being “held” properly. This injurious posture can obstruct the flow of qi and blood, as the nerves and blood vessels are cramped by the constricted muscles. Indeed, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome or carpal tunnel syndrome can be an unfortunate sequelae of a rotator cuff tear. This is why it is important to maintain and care for your shoulder injury.

A general index of points that are proximal or resting on the rotator cuff muscles are as follows:

  • Supaspinatus – Sanjiao 15
  • Infraspinatus – Small Intestine 10, 11, 12
  • Teres Minor – Small Intestine 9
  • Subscapularis – Heart 1

Interestingly enough, the Small Intestine, Sanjiao and Heart meridian are all Fire meridians! The Fire element relates to upward movement, the emotion of joy, the bitter flavor,

Distal pain often follow the trajectories of the meridians, rather than simply corresponding to the individual muscles. So, even though your tear is in your Supraspinatus or your Teres Minor, you might develop pain at your wrist, or your elbow, and not at the expected point of trauma. If you examine the photos of the anatomy model pictured above, you might see lines that parallel your own pain patterns.

Two very effective ways of remedying the rotator cuff are acupuncture and guasha. Acupuncture, applied at trigger points in the muscles of the shoulder and arm, can help unbind points of tension and relax the muscles. Acupuncture applied to trigger points is often rebranded as “dry needling,” but, rest assured, that dry needling is a form of acupuncture, and it is safe when performed by a board certified, licensed acupuncturist.

Guasha, otherwise known as Graston or IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization), can be used to reduce adhesion and vent inflamed myofascial tissues. Its approach is similar to cupping, insofar that it moves stagnant blood, but it relies on applied pressure instead of vacuum and suction.

Guasha can be explained as creating transitory therapeutic petechia associated with increased surface micro perfusion, increased up regulation of the genetic expression of heme oxygenate-1 (HO-1), stimulation of the immune system and evidence of pain reduction and anti-inflammatory effect that is sustained over time.

Nielsen, A. (2014). Gua sha: a Traditional Technique for Modern Practice. London: Elsevier Health Sciences UK.
Marks from Guasha. You can see the inflammation follows the trajectory of the Large-Intestine Yangming Meridian, Sanjiao-Shaoyang meridian, and the Lung-Taiyin meridian.

Focus on the Opposite Side

As the injury progresses, the unaffected side will take on greater physical burdens, which then worsens the afflicted side—it’s a vicious cycle that all unilateral injuries are notorious for. In treatments and therapies, it can be helpful to begin with the unaffected side. The arms can translate problems very readily, and if the scapula becomes unstable, there is increased likelihood that it will tug on the cervical vertebrae, the clavicle, or other anatomical structures. Take care in all movements.

Exercising the Rotator Cuff after an Injury

New symptoms can arise out of no where, so it’s important to work very gently and slowly when doing any new workouts. The Merck Manual recommends that work outs that “push objects away” like push-ups should be avoided, and those that “pull objects closer” should be encouraged. It lists Upright Rows, Downward Lateral Pulls, and Bench Press as therapeutic healing exercises, when done with proper care and guidance. Talk to your doctor or therapist about the right movements for you.

You Can Heal Your Rotator Cuff

Injuring your shoulder can be frustrating and even debilitating. If you are suffering with a rotator cuff injury, I encourage you to reach out to an acupuncturist or massage therapist in your community. They will definitely be able to help relieve your pain with the aforementioned techniques. And, if you are in or near Austin, Texas, I would be glad to discuss how I could be of service to you.

Do not give up on healing, and your shoulder will feel as good as new. Just remember that it takes time, and there are highs and lows. Be patient, be persistent and be kind to your body.

Healing Blepharitis Holistically

Disclaimer: The following advice is meant for educational and informative purposes only. If you are suffering with an eyelid pathology, please see a licensed healthcare practitioner.

Swollen Eyelid? It’s curable!

Toward the end of my acupuncture program, I developed an eyelid disorder known as blepharitis. Blepharitis is characterized by swelling and inflammation of the eyelid and its related glands, such as the meibomian glands. Blepharitis can affect one or both eyelids, the upper or lower, and the inner or outer, depending on the glands that are irritated. Blepharitis can be concomitant with a chalazion, a more bulbous swelling of the eyelid gland that resembles a pimple.

Blepharitis can produce edema of the eyelid, which results in a diffuse swelling of the periorbital flesh. The occlusion of the eyelid glands can impair the lubricant oils from reaching the eye, and dry eye can result. Itchiness, irritation and changes in visual acuity can arise.

Blepharitis specifically afflicts the eyelid, and is not a disease of the eye like conjunctivitis (Pink eye). In other words, your eye will remain relatively healthy, even though the eyelid is swollen. However, Pink eye can trigger Blepharitis, and vice versa, by inflaming the local glands. If you have significant burning pain in the eye that, it is important to seek a professional opinion.

Blepharitis has many causes, such as: stress, autoimmune disorders like MGD and Sjogren’s, environmental allergies, dietary causes, bacterial infection, injury to the eyelid, and even bad glasses or outdated contact lenses. Research has shown that a small skin parasite known as Demodex has some involvement in many cases of blepharitis. Research has also shown that Metabolic Syndrome and digestive disorders have an association with increased incidence of blepharitis. No matter the cause of blepharitis, the cure is usually the same: hot compresses and massage to move congealed oils stuck in the clogged glands.

IMG_0895
It started as swelling in my forehead and brow, then the fluid began inflating my eyelid,

If There’s Pain, Seek a Professional Opinion

I personally had no pain when dealing with blepharitis / chalazion, with the exception of occasional irritation due to drainage of the swollen glands. If there is significant pain, I highly encourage you to seek a physician’s opinion, as you might have a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics to cure the issue.

If it isn’t a Bacterial infection, Try Holistic Medicine

My eyelid issue was very frustrating. The draining was very slow and it didn’t seem to be healing on its own. So, I quickly turned to my resources as an acupuncturist. I had several tools I used to cure my eyelid: guasha, acupuncture, acupressure/ tuina, magnets, herbal teas and herbal compresses, as well as smokeless moxibustion. With the exception of acupuncture, you can do just about all of these therapies for yourself.

Defining the Therapies

Acupuncture – Using acupuncture at periorbital points can help relieve inflammation, stimulate circulation and improve immunological functions in the body. It can be used to help regulate hormones, according to the individuals needs.

Guasha – Using a soft edged tool to stroke and massage the lymph / blood vessels. Guasha relieves inflammation and can help dredge out adhesions in the muscles and fascia. I used a homemade frankincense and myrrh salve to reduce friction with Guasha. You can find it here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/773291144/frankincense-myrrh-salve

Jade Rolling – Using a cosmetic tool to help increase circulation around the eyelid. Roll it across the eyebrow, under the eyes, and softly across the eyelids with the eyes closed.

Acupressure – Using your fingers or a tool to apply pressure into muscles and therapeutic points of the body. Gently press and massage around the eyelid, several times a day. This is best done after hot compresses.

Herbalism – Using (safe) herbs as tea or poultices to assist the body in healing. Salves, essential oils, and even homeopathy can help. I highly recommend Similasin Eye Relief Drops to help remove excess debris from the eyelid, and to maintain hydration of the eye.

Hot Compress – Warming a damp towel, and applying it to the affected eyelid. A warm tea bag can also be used, but the tea could irritate the eye, so be very careful.

Facial QiGong – Doing facial exercises that move the eyes, eyebrow, forehead and periorbital muscles, can really assist the body in moving stagnant fluids. Furrowing the brow, and raising the eyebrows, widening the eyes and blinking tightly. As always, if there’s pain, stop doing the exercise or therapy and seek assessment.

Hot compresses are perhaps the most important treatment method. The goal is to heat the fluids and oils that had congealed in the eyelid. The glands of the eyelid, like the meibomian gland, are tiny and they are very close to the skin surface. This makes it easier for the oils to solidify, as they near room temperature more speedily.

I recommend steeping a peppermint tea bag, then using the hot tea bag as a compress on the eyelid. Apply it often, and when the eyelid is well heated, do gentle & vigorous massage around the brow and lid. Another great idea is to get a hot towel warmer, and to have many hot towels to use throughout the day.

It Might Get Worse Before It Gets Better

As the fluid is heated and circulated through the eyelid, the gland might expand and turn into a chalazion. This can be distressing, but also indicative that things are moving. Do not get anxious—just keep heating and gently massaging to promote fluid. However, if you feel PAIN or BURNING—this is a good sign there is infection, and you should contact an Ophthalmologist, MD or OD for topical antibiotics and special care.

IMG_0911
I used magnets over night to help stimulate local acu-points. As you can see, the eyelid became very swollen.

Jade Rolling & Facial Guasha: An Important Hygiene Method for those with Blepharitis

For people who suffer with eyelid disorders like blepharitis, there’s some bad news: it is often chronic and must be managed for our whole lives. For this reason, it is important to add in hygiene methods for the eyelids. Facial guasha is a method of Chinese bodywork that uses a soft-edge tool to promote circulation in the muscles and fascia. It is like combing the muscles. Jade rolling is very similar—it uses a stone tool to dredge out the lymphatic build-up in the tissues of the face.

By doing this daily, you can maintain a healthy flow of fluids in the face, and avoid toxic build-up in the eyelid glands. Check out this following video to see how to use Guasha for eyelid disorders!

Go to Your Doctor, but Don’t Buy into Gimmicks

If you have blepharitis, it is important to get a professional opinion from a healthcare provider. Blepharitis can come from more serious infections, and might require special interventions and medicines for complete resolution. This is especially true if you have significant BURNING, BLEEDING or BLINDNESS. Seek care immediately if those symptoms are present.

If you have seen a professional and they declared your eyelid condition a non-emergency, then the information in this blog should be safe to apply.

I am currently doing research on blepharitis. My goal is to show how acupuncture and guasha might expedite the healing of eyelid disorders like blepharitis. Research consistently points to heat compresses and massage as being the most reliable intervention for blepharitis. However, new tools like “LipiFlow” are being manufactured to do heat and massage for people are exorbitantly priced—over $500 for session series!

For those of us that lack the insurance or money to spend on such a process, we can rely on these simple techniques of tea-bag compresses and facial guasha & acupressure. It takes dedication and consistency, but you can heal your eyelid!

Also, try acupuncture from a qualified practitioner. They might have herbs that can help address the underlying issue, bringing you a greater quality of life and long-term relief.

IMG_0043
Me with Blepharitis
fullsizeoutput_ef2
Almost 2 years later — no blepharitis.

Not Healing? You Might Not Have Blepharitis

Since I originally wrote this, and began working with eyelid issues, many people have contacted me who said they had blepharitis, when it clearly was something else. For example, many people develop hard cysts on the eyelid. These are called Intratarsal Keratinous Cysts, and they are not blepharitis. You will need to see an ophthalmologist who can surgically excise the cyst.

A clear way to know if you have an IKC, and not a chalazion or blepharitis, is if the swelling does not respond to these therapies. If you are doing facial massage, guasha, herbs, and so on, and the bump on your eyelid is not going away, you probably have an IKC.

In more dire circumstances, these eyelid swellings can actually be related to Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia. It is really important to get a professional opinion from an ophthalmologist about your eyelid swelling, especially if it doesn’t begin to resolve within a couple months, or sooner.

Have Questions? Reach out to me.

If you are struggling with an eyelid issue, and you have had a physician rule out serious issues, feel free to contact me (if you are seeking holistic treatment and TCM therapies for Blepharitis, Chalazion and other eyelid disorders). I would love to help you!

Stay positive and you will heal your eyelid.

Relieving Anxiety with Traditional Chinese Medicine

IMG_3833
These marks are from cupping and guasha. Inflammation is the muscles is relieved as it is dredged out toward the surface. The marks go away, and symptoms of pain and anxiety often follow.

🔥❣️This patient was dealing with a general feeling of anxiety, shortness of breath and brain fog. Acupuncture was done at key points to address dampness, strengthen the spleen, reduce heart heat and soothe liver Qi. After that, some tuina, cupping and guasha were applied along the Taiyang & shaoyang meridians of the back to clear heat and unbind the chest. As you can see, the scapular muscles (especially on the right) needed some attention!

☯️💧Anxiety is not always contingent on our emotional circumstances. Sometimes it is due to physical conditions affecting the viscera, such as the heart. For example? Drinking too much coffee or alcohol can inflame the blood, which can then irritate the Shen (aka the mind/spirit). By working with the physiological aspects of the body, and extracting the heat, the mind and spirit can be positively altered and anxiety can be relieved. It’s a win – win situation for muscle health and mental health! 😁

What is moxibustion?

Moxibustion is a technique from Traditional Chinese Medicine, where mugwort is lit on fire, then used to heat up acupuncture points. Mugwort is an herb also known as Ai Ye or Artemisia Vulgaris. Mugwort contains essential oils rich in Thujone, a chemical that acts antagonistically to GABA receptors in the body—when taken internally. Studies on Moxibustion indicate that it is capable of treating a wide range of diseases.

Ling Shu, Guan Neng states that when acupuncture does not work, moxibustion does. 

Moxibustion has both direct (skin contact) and indirect (no skin contact) methods. Moxibustion can also be used to warm up acupuncture needles, by securing it to the needle’s handle—a technique called kyutoshin, in Japanese tradition.

Moxibustion involves fire and smoke, but there are smokeless alternatives for people with sensitives noses or asthma. It is a very relaxing therapy, and can help relieve pain, warms the muscles and meridians, and can help invigorate the body with Yang qi.

Some practitioners can teach patients how to safely use moxibustion on themselves. This is often done for cases of a breech baby, where the mother is asked to use moxa as a daily therapy to turn the baby naturally.

Moxa sticks consist of Mugwort which has been fleeced and packaged into sticks. The fleeced mugwort can also be used in a loose form, which can be packed into cones or balls, then burnt upon sliced ginger or aconite (among other barriers). The heat produced by the burning mugwort penetrates deep into the muscular tissues. Moxibustion’s heat can help facilitate the relaxation of contracted muscles and sinews, dredging the meridians, expelling cold, and invigorating the Yang qi of the body.

Indirect moxibustion is used commonly, as there’s very little chance of scarring or burning, when operated properly. A stick of Moxa is lit, and a practitioner warms points with the small ember produced by the burning herbs. Points on the feet, ankle and knees can be warmed with indirect moxibustion to relieve conditions like arthritis. This style can be safely used both in and outside of the clinic.

View this post on Instagram

🌿🔥Here I am using Moxibustion to warm the lumbar region/ the Du meridian—particularly at a point called Mingmen (DU-4). Did you know that a number of classical texts say Moxa is contraindicated here for persons under 20 years old? That rule seems to change extensively, as the technique does wonders for chronic pain associated with aging and acute strains. . 👨🏻‍⚕️👨🏻‍⚕️Kogure and Hisamitsu, two researchers from Japan, found that Moxa applied at this point significantly reduced Interleukin-6, a major inflammatory factor related to arthritis and many autoimmune disease, such as diabetes. The results were very promising for moxibustion’s use as a treatment for a wide range of disorders. Let me know if you’d like to try it. I think you’ll approve. ✨ . . #moxibustion #painrelief #lumbar #lowerbackpain #acupuncture #holistichealth #atx #austintexas #atxfitness #traditionalchinesemedicine #yoga #qigong #atxblogger #chronicpain #healyourself #healing #atxhealth #atxbusiness #herbalist #ilovemyjob #guasha #cupping #marketing #research #bodywork #mugwort #moxa #fire #🔥 #arthritis

A post shared by Jacob Cain McRae, L.Ac. (@cainhealingarts) on

Direct Moxibustion is when a small amount of mugwort fleece is burned directly upon the flesh, until there is a feeling of contact with the herb’s heat. Non-scarring Moxa can be performed on patients that are too deficient or unfit for scarring Moxa. Scarring Moxibustion uses a rice sized piece of Moxa fleece and is burnt down just enough to contact the flesh. This activates a powerful immune response that can strengthen the body’s yang and Wei Qi. This form of moxibustion is safely done in a clinic by a licensed acupuncturist. In addition to direct loose moxa, there are stick-on options, like Tsubo-Kyo Ibuki Moxa (see video below).

View this post on Instagram

☯️lately, I’ve been trying lots of different Moxa products from @lhasa_oms to treat my arm. These are “Tsubo-kyu Stick-On Ibuki Moxa” by Ito Co.🔥🔥 I was very surprised at how hot these got! The smoke from the mugwort even leaves a bit of oil/ residue on the skin. The heat lasts a few minutes and radiates a few inches beyond the point of origin. . I prefer them to the DongBang minimoxa, because they smell better and securely adhere to skin . I will definitely order more, but maybe a milder version for people who are sensitive to heat. The only downside is they are slightly pricey. Doing kyutoshin warm needle technique will do the same thing without the price tag—so save them for hard to treat places. 😅 . . let me know if you want to try it in your next session~ . . #acupuncture #guasha #cupping #tuina #bodywork #massage #musclehealth #medicine #therapy #atx #texasbusiness #mentalhealth #holistichealing #peace #anxiety #anxietyrelief #moxibustion #atxfitness #energyhealing #joy #qi #reiki #relax #rejuvenate #healthylifestyle #nutrition #coffee #alcohol #chinesemedicine #serenity

A post shared by Jacob Cain McRae, L.Ac. (@cainhealingarts) on

Moxibustion with moxa leaf can get into the channels and cure hundreds of diseases. Its function is great. The drug properties of moxa leaves (raw) are that they turn warmer after being processed, become moxa wool (processed), which are suitable for moxibustion, and the older the better. The ancients chose moxa as moxibustion material for it is easy to collect and more for its drug properties, and long-term clinical practices have proved that.

Research has shown positive results concerning the pain relieving and therapeutic effects of moxibustion.

  • Moxibustion can lead to vasoconstriction at the burning point while vasodilatation around the point and increase peripheral arterial blood flow and microvascular permeability
  • Another thermal effect of moxibustion is to induce heat shock proteins (HSPs) in local tissues. HSPs are a class of functionally related proteins involved in the folding and unfolding of other proteins.

Biochemical research has elucidated many active components of mugwort, the herb used in moxibustion.

  • These chemicals potentiate therapeutic functions beyond the thermal function of moxibustion.
  • The ingredients of moxa always change according to the place and season of production.

The ingredients of moxa are complicated; more than 60 kinds of components had been identified [33]. The volatile oils of moxa include 1,8-Cineole, alkenes (alpha-thujene, pinene, sabinene, etc.), camphor, borneol, and little aldehydes, ketones, phenols, alkanes, and benzene series compounds. Heptatriacontane (C37H76) plays an important role in combustion [34]. The moxa also has tannins, flavonoids, sterols, polysaccharides, trace elements, and other ingredients.

A list of all the Sabian Symbols

From day to say the sun moves through the zodiac, degree by degree. This measurement of time has given us our calendar. The zodiac has helped humanity understand the nuances of seasonal development for eons. The following list was created to assist astrologers and those interested in astrology in understanding the specific energies emanating from a particular zodiacal degree. Interpretations can be quite varied, so take time to meditate on the degrees which relate to your natal planetary placements.

It might seem odd at first, but it can be very helpful for introspection. If you need your natal chart generated or if you’ve got questions, feel free to ask.

1º Aries (1): A WOMAN HAS RISEN OUT OF THE OCEAN, A SEAL IS EMBRACING HER.
2º Aries (2): A COMEDIAN ENTERTAINING THE GROUP.
3º Aries (3): A CAMEO PROFILE OF A MAN IN THE OUTLINE OF HIS COUNTRY.
4º Aries (4): TWO LOVERS STROLLING THROUGH A SECLUDED WALK.
5º Aries (5): A TRIANGLE WITH WINGS.
6º Aries (6): A SQUARE BRIGHTLY LIGHTED ON ONE SIDE.
7º Aries (7): A MAN SUCCESSFULLY EXPRESSING HIMSELF IN TWO REALMS AT ONCE.
8º Aries (8): A WOMAN’S HAT WITH STREAMERS BLOWN BY THE EAST WIND.
9º Aries (9): A CRYSTAL GAZER.
10º Aries (10): A TEACHER GIVES NEW SYMBOLIC FORMS TO TRADITIONAL IMAGES.
11º Aries (11): THE RULER OF A NATION.
12º Aries (12): A FLOCK OF WILD GEESE.
13º Aries (13): A BOMB WHICH FAILED TO EXPLODE IS NOW SAFELY CONCEALED.
14º Aries (14): A SERPENT COILING NEAR A MAN AND A WOMAN.
15º Aries (15): AN INDIAN WEAVING A BLANKET.
16º Aries (16): BROWNIES DANCING IN THE SETTING SUN.
17º Aries (17): TWO PRIM SPINSTERS SITTING TOGETHER IN SILENCE.
18º Aries (18): AN EMPTY HAMMOCK.
19º Aries (19): THE MAGIC CARPET OF ORIENTAL IMAGERY.
20º Aries (20): A YOUNG GIRL FEEDING BIRDS IN WINTER.
21º Aries (21): A PUGILIST (BOXER) ENTERING THE RING.
22º Aries (22): THE GATE TO THE GARDEN OF ALL FULFILLED DESIRES.
23º Aries (23): A WOMAN IN PASTEL COLORS CARRYING A HEAVY AND VALUABLE BUT VEILED LOAD.
24º Aries (24): AN OPEN WINDOW AND A NET CURTAIN BLOWING INTO A CORNUCOPIA.
25º Aries (25): A DOUBLE PROMISE REVEALS ITS INNER AND OUTER MEANINGS.
26º Aries (26): A MAN POSSESSED OF MORE GIFTS THAN HE CAN HOLD.
27º Aries (27): THROUGH IMAGINATION, A LOST OPPORTUNITY IS REGAINED.
28º Aries (28): A LARGE DISAPPOINTED AUDIENCE.
29º Aries (29): THE MUSIC OF THE SPHERES.
30º Aries (30): A DUCK POND AND ITS BROOD.

1º Taurus (31): A CLEAR MOUNTAIN STREAM.
2º Taurus (32): AN ELECTRICAL STORM.
3º Taurus (33): STEPS UP TO A LAWN BLOOMING WITH CLOVER.
4º Taurus (34): THE POT OF GOLD AT THE END OF THE RAINBOW.
5º Taurus (35): A WIDOW AT AN OPEN GRAVE.
6º Taurus (36): A BRIDGE BEING BUILT ACROSS A GORGE.
7º Taurus (37): A WOMAN OF SAMARIA COMES TO DRAW WATER FROM THE WELL.
8º Taurus (38): A SLEIGH WITHOUT SNOW.
9º Taurus (39): A CHRISTMAS TREE DECORATED.
10º Taurus (40): A RED CROSS NURSE.
11º Taurus (41): A WOMAN SPRINKLING FLOWERS.
12º Taurus (42): A YOUNG COUPLE WALK DOWN MAIN- STREET, WINDOW-SHOPPING.
13º Taurus (43): A PORTER CARRYING HEAVY BAGGAGE.
14º Taurus (44): ON THE BEACH, CHILDREN PLAY WHILE SHELLFISH GROPE AT THE EDGE OF THE WATER.
15º Taurus (45): A MAN WITH RAKISH SILK HAT, MUFFLED AGAINST THE COLD, BRAVES A STORM.
16º Taurus (46): AN OLD TEACHER FAILS TO INTEREST HIS PUPILS IN TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE.
17º Taurus (47): A SYMBOLICAL BATTLE BETWEEN ‘SWORDS’ AND ‘TORCHES’.
18º Taurus (48): A WOMAN AIRING AN OLD BAG THROUGH A SUNNY WINDOW.
19º Taurus (49): A NEW CONTINENT RISING OUT OF THE OCEAN.
20º Taurus (50): WISPS OF CLOUDS, LIKE WINGS, ARE STREAMING ACROSS THE SKY.
21º Taurus (51): MOVING FINGER POINTS TO SIGNIFICANT PASSAGES IN A BOOK.
22º Taurus (52): WHITE DOVE FLYING OVER TROUBLED WATERS.
23º Taurus (53): A JEWELLERY SHOP FILLED WITH THE MOST MAGNIFICENT JEWELS.
24º Taurus (54): AN INDIAN WARRIOR RIDING FIERCELY, HUMAN SCALPS HANGING AT HIS BELT.
25º Taurus (55): A LARGE WELL-KEPT PUBLIC PARK.
26º Taurus (56): A SPANIARD SERENADING HIS SENORITA.
27º Taurus (57): AN OLD INDIAN WOMAN SELLING BEADS.
28º Taurus (58): A MATURE WOMAN REAWAKENED TO ROMANCE.
29º Taurus (59): TWO COBBLERS WORKING AT A TABLE.
30º Taurus (60): A PEACOCK PARADING ON THE TERRACE OF AN OLD CASTLE.

1º Gemini (61): A GLASS-BOTTOMED BOAT REVEALS UNDER-SEA WONDERS.
2º Gemini (62): SANTA CLAUSE FILLING STOCKINGS FURTIVELY.
3º Gemini (63): THE GARDEN OF THE TUILERIES IN PARIS.
4º Gemini (64): HOLLY AND MISTLETOE BRING CHRISTMAS SPIRIT TO A HOME.
5º Gemini (65): A RADICAL MAGAZINE, ASKING FOR ACTION, DISPLAYS A SENSATIONAL FRONT PAGE.
6º Gemini (66): WORKMEN DRILLING FOR OIL.
7º Gemini (67): AN OLD-FASHIONED WELL.
8º Gemini (68): AROUSED STRIKERS ROUND A FACTORY.
9º Gemini (69): A QUIVER FILLED WITH ARROWS.
10º Gemini (70): AEROPLANE PERFORMING A NOSE-DIVE.
11º Gemini (71): NEWLY OPENED LANDS OFFER THE PIONEER NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPERIENCE.
12º Gemini (72): A BLACK SLAVE-GIRL DEMANDS HER RIGHTS OF HER MISTRESS.
13º Gemini (73): WORLD FAMOUS PIANIST GIVING A CONCERT PERFORMANCE.
14º Gemini (74): TWO PEOPLE, LIVING FAR APART, IN TELEPATHIC COMMUNICATION.
15º Gemini (75): TWO DUTCH CHILDREN TALKING.
16º Gemini (76): A WOMAN ACTIVIST IN AN EMOTIONAL SPEECH, DRAMATIZING HER CAUSE.
17º Gemini (77): THE HEAD OF A ROBUST YOUTH CHANGES INTO THAT OF A MATURE THINKER.
18º Gemini (78): TWO CHINESE MEN TALKING CHINESE (IN A WESTERN CROWD).
19º Gemini (79): A LARGE ARCHAIC VOLUME REVEALS A TRADITIONAL WISDOM.
20º Gemini (80): A CAFETERIA WITH AN ABUNDANCE OF CHOICES.
21º Gemini (81): A TUMULTUOUS LABOR DEMONSTRATION.
22º Gemini (82): DANCING COUPLES CROWD THE BARN IN A HARVEST FESTIVAL.
23º Gemini (83): THREE FLEDGLINGS IN A NEST HIGH IN A TREE.
24º Gemini (84): CHILDREN SKATING ON ICE.
25º Gemini (85): A GARDENER TRIMMING LARGE PALM TREES.
26º Gemini (86): WINTER FROST IN THE WOODS.
27º Gemini (87): A YOUNG GYPSY EMERGING FROM THE WOODS GAZES AT FAR CITIES.
28º Gemini (88): SOCIETY GRANTING BANKRUPTCY TO HIM, A MAN LEAVES THE COURT.
29º Gemini (89): THE FIRST MOCKINGBIRD OF SPRING SINGS FROM THE TREE TOP.
30º Gemini (90): A PARADE OF BATHING BEAUTIES BEFORE LARGE BEACH CROWDS.

1º Cancer (91): ON A SHIP THE SAILORS LOWER AN OLD FLAG AND RAISE A NEW ONE.
2º Cancer (92): A MAN ON A MAGIC CARPET OBSERVES VAST VISTAS BELOW HIM.
3º Cancer (93): AN ARCTIC EXPLORER LEADS A REINDEER THROUGH ICY CANYONS.
4º Cancer (94): A CAT ARGUING WITH A MOUSE.
5º Cancer (95): AT A RAILROAD CROSSING, AN AUTOMOBILE IS WRECKED BY A TRAIN.
6º Cancer (96): GAME BIRDS FEATHERING THEIR NESTS.
7º Cancer (97): TWO FAIRIES (NATURE SPIRITS) DANCING ON A MOONLIT NIGHT.
8º Cancer (98): A GROUP RABBITS DRESSED IN CLOTHES AND ON PARADE.
9º Cancer (99): A SMALL, NAKED GIRL BENDS OVER A POND TRYING TO CATCH A FISH.
10º Cancer (100): A LARGE DIAMOND IN THE FIRST STAGES OF THE CUTTING PROCESS.
11º Cancer (101): A CLOWN CARICATURING WELL-KNOWN PERSONALITIES.
12º Cancer (102): A CHINESE WOMAN NURSING A BABY WHOSE AURA REVEALS HIM TO BE THE REINCARNATION OF A GREAT TEACHER.
13º Cancer (103): ONE HAND SLIGHTLY FLEXED WITH A VERY PROMINENT THUMB.
14º Cancer (104): A VERY OLD MAN FACING A VAST DARK SPACE TO THE NORTHEAST.
15º Cancer (105): A GROUP OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE OVEREATEN AND ENJOYED IT.
16º Cancer (106): A MAN STUDYING A MANDALA IN FRONT OF HIM, WITH THE HELP OF A VERY ANCIENT BOOK.
17º Cancer (107): THE SEED GROWS INTO KNOWLEDGE AND LIFE.
18º Cancer (108): A HEN SCRATCHING FOR HER CHICKS.
19º Cancer (109): A PRIEST PERFORMING A MARRIAGE CEREMONY.
20º Cancer (110): VENETIAN GONDOLIERS IN A SERENADE.
21º Cancer (111): A PRIMA DONNA SINGING.
22º Cancer (112): A YOUNG WOMAN AWAITING A SAILBOAT.
23º Cancer (113): THE MEETING OF A LITERARY SOCIETY.
24º Cancer (114): A WOMAN AND TWO MEN CASTAWAYS ON A SMALL ISLAND OF THE SOUTH SEAS.
25º Cancer (115): A LEADER OF MEN WRAPPED IN AN INVISIBLE MANTLE OF POWER.
26º Cancer (116): GUESTS ARE READING IN THE LIBRARY OF A LUXURIOUS HOME.
27º Cancer (117): A VIOLENT STORM IN A CANYON FILLED WITH EXPENSIVE HOMES.
28º Cancer (118): INDIAN GIRL INTRODUCES COLLEGE BOY-FRIEND TO HER ASSEMBLED TRIBE.
29º Cancer (119): A GREEK MUSE WEIGHING NEW BORN TWINS IN GOLDEN SCALES.
30º Cancer (120): A DAUGHTER OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

1º Leo (121): UNDER EMOTIONAL STRESS, BLOOD RUSHES TO A MAN’S HEAD.
2º Leo (122): AN EPIDEMIC OF MUMPS.
3º Leo (123): A MATURE WOMAN, KEEPING UP WITH THE TIMES, HAVING HER HAIR BOBBED.
4º Leo (124): A MAN FORMALLY DRESSED STANDS NEAR TROPHIES HE BROUGHT BACK FROM A HUNTING EXPEDITION.
5º Leo (125): ROCK FORMATIONS TOWER OVER A DEEP CANYON.
6º Leo (126): AN OLD FASHIONED ‘CONSERVATIVE’ WOMAN IS CONFRONTED BY AN UP-TO-DATE GIRL.
7º Leo (127): THE CONSTELLATIONS OF STARS IN THE SKY.
8º Leo (128): GLASS BLOWERS SHAPE BEAUTIFUL VASES WITH THEIR CONTROLLED BREATHING.
9º Leo (129): A COMMUNIST ACTIVIST SPREADING HIS REVOLUTIONARY IDEALS.
10º Leo (130): EARLY MORNING DEW.
11º Leo (131): CHILDREN ON A SWING IN A HUGE OAK TREE.
12º Leo (132): AN EVENING LAWN PARTY OF ADULTS.
13º Leo (133): AN OLD SEA CAPTAIN ROCKING ON THE PORCH OF HIS COTTAGE.
14º Leo (134): CHERUB-LIKE, A HUMAN SOUL WHISPERS, SEEKING TO MANIFEST.
15º Leo (135): A PAGEANT MOVING ALONG A STREET PACKED WITH PEOPLE.
16º Leo (136): BRILLIANT SUNSHINE JUST AFTER A STORM.
17º Leo (137): VOLUNTEER CHURCH CHOIR MAKES SOCIAL EVENT OF REHEARSAL.
18º Leo (138): A CHEMIST CONDUCTS AN EXPERIMENT FOR HIS STUDENTS.
19º Leo (139): A HOUSEBOAT PARTY.
20º Leo (140): AMERICAN INDIANS PERFORM A RITUAL TO THE SUN.
21º Leo (141): INTOXICATED CHICKENS DIZZILY FLAP THEIR WINGS TRYING TO FLY.
22º Leo (142): A CARRIER PIGEON FULFILLING ITS MISSION.
23º Leo (143): A BAREBACK RIDER IN A CIRCUS DISPLAYS HER DANGEROUS SKILL.
24º Leo (144): TOTALLY CONCENTRATED UPON INNER SPIRITUAL ATTAINMENT, A MAN IS SITTING IN A STATE OF COMPLETE NEGLECT OF HIS BODY.
25º Leo (145): A LARGE CAMEL CROSSING A VAST AND FORBIDDING DESERT.
26º Leo (146): AFTER A HEAVY STORM, A RAINBOW.
27º Leo (147): DAYBREAK – THE LUMINESCENCE OF DAWN IN THE EASTERN SKY.
28º Leo (148): MANY LITTLE BIRDS ON THE LIMB OF A LARGE TREE.
29º Leo (149): A MERMAID EMERGES FROM THE OCEAN READY FOR REBIRTH IN HUMAN FORM.
30º Leo (150): AN UNSEALED LETTER.

1º Virgo (151): IN A PORTRAIT THE BEST OF A MAN’S FEATURES AND TRAITS ARE IDEALIZED.
2º Virgo (152): A LARGE WHITE CROSS-DOMINATING THE LANDSCAPE-STANDS ALONE ON TOP OF A HIGH HILL.
3º Virgo (153): TWO GUARDIAN ANGELS BRINGING PROTECTION.
4º Virgo (154): BLACK AND WHITE CHILDREN PLAYING HAPPILY TOGETHER.
5º Virgo (155): A MAN BECOMING AWARE OF NATURE SPIRITS AND NORMALLY UNSEEN SPIRITUAL ENERGIES.
6º Virgo (156): A MERRY-GO-ROUND.
7º Virgo (157): A HAREM.
8º Virgo (158): A GIRL TAKES HER FIRST DANCING INSTRUCTION.
9º Virgo (159): A EXPRESSIONIST PAINTER MAKING A FUTURISTIC DRAWING.
10º Virgo (160): TWO HEADS LOOKING OUT AND BEYOND THE SHADOWS.
11º Virgo (161): A BOY MOULDED IN HIS MOTHER’S ASPIRATIONS FOR HIM.
12º Virgo (162): A BRIDE WITH HER VEIL SNATCHED AWAY.
13º Virgo (163): A POWERFUL STATESMAN OVERCOMES A STATE OF POLITICAL HYSTERIA.
14º Virgo (164): A FAMILY TREE.
15º Virgo (165): A FINE LACE ORNAMENTAL HANDKERCHIEF.
16º Virgo (166): CHILDREN CROWD AROUND THE ORANG-UTANG CAGE IN A ZOO.
17º Virgo (167): A VOLCANIC ERUPTION.
18º Virgo (168): TWO GIRLS PLAYING WITH A OUIJA BOARD.
19º Virgo (169): A SWIMMING RACE.
20º Virgo (170): A CARAVAN OF CARS HEADED FOR PROMISED LANDS.
21º Virgo (171): A GIRL’S BASKETBALL TEAM.
22º Virgo (172): A ROYAL COAT OF ARMS ENRICHED WITH PRECIOUS STONES.
23º Virgo (173): A LION-TAMER RUSHES FEARLESSLY INTO THE CIRCUS ARENA.
24º Virgo (174): MARY AND HER WHITE LAMB.
25º Virgo (175): A FLAG AT HALF-MAST IN FRONT OF A PUBLIC BUILDING.
26º Virgo (176): A BOY WITH A CENSER SERVES NEAR THE PRIEST AT THE ALTAR.
27º Virgo (177): ARISTOCRATIC ELDERLY LADIES DRINKING AFTERNOON TEA IN A WEALTHY HOME.
28º Virgo (178): A BALD-HEADED MAN WHO HAS SEIZED POWER.
29º Virgo (179): A MAN GAINING SECRET KNOWLEDGE FROM AN ANCIENT SCROLL HE IS READING.
30º Virgo (180): HAVING AN URGENT TASK TO COMPLETE, A MAN DOESN’T LOOK TO ANY DISTRACTIONS.

1º Libra (181): A BUTTERFLY PRESERVED AND MADE PERFECT WITH A DART THROUGH IT.
2º Libra (182): THE LIGHT OF THE SIXTH RACE TRANSMUTED TO THE SEVENTH.
3º Libra (183): THE DAWN OF A NEW DAY REVEALS EVERYTHING CHANGED.
4º Libra (184): A GROUP OF YOUNG PEOPLE SIT IN SPIRITUAL COMMUNION AROUND A CAMPFIRE.
5º Libra (185): A MAN TEACHING THE TRUE INNER KNOWLEDGE OF THE NEW WORLD TO HIS STUDENTS.
6º Libra (186): A MAN WATCHES HIS IDEALS TAKING A CONCRETE FORM BEFORE HIS INNER VISION.
7º Libra (187): A WOMAN FEEDING CHICKENS AND PROTECTING THEM FROM THE HAWKS.
8º Libra (188): A BLAZING FIREPLACE IN A DESERTED HOME.
9º Libra (189): THREE OLD MASTERS HANGING IN A SPECIAL ROOM IN AN ART GALLERY.
10º Libra (190): A CANOE APPROACHING SAFETY THROUGH DANGEROUS WATERS.
11º Libra (191): A PROFESSOR PEERING OVER HIS GLASSES AT HIS STUDENTS.
12º Libra (192): MINERS ARE EMERGING FROM A DEEP COAL MINE.
13º Libra (193): CHILDREN BLOWING SOAP BUBBLES.
14º Libra (194): IN THE HEAT OF THE NOON, A MAN TAKES A SIESTA.
15º Libra (195): CIRCULAR PATHS.
16º Libra (196): AFTER A STORM, A BOAT LANDING STANDS IN NEED OF RECONSTRUCTION.
17º Libra (197): A RETIRED SEA CAPTAIN WATCHES SHIPS ENTERING AND LEAVING THE HARBOUR.
18º Libra (198): TWO MEN PLACED UNDER ARREST.
19º Libra (199): A GANG OF ROBBERS IN HIDING.
20º Libra (200): A JEWISH RABBI PERFORMING HIS DUTIES.
21º Libra (201): A CROWD UPON A BEACH.
22º Libra (202): A CHILD GIVING BIRDS A DRINK AT A FOUNTAIN.
23º Libra (203): CHANTICLEER’S VOICE HERALDS THE RISING SUN WITH EXUBERANT TONES.
24º Libra (204): A THIRD WING ON THE LEFT SIDE OF A BUTTERFLY.
25º Libra (205): THE SIGHT OF AN AUTUMN LEAF BRINGS TO A PILGRIM THE SUDDEN REVELATION OF THE MYSTERY OF LIFE AND DEATH.
26º Libra (206): AN EAGLE AND A LARGE WHITE DOVE TURNING INTO EACH OTHER.
27º Libra (207): AN AIRPLANE SAILS, HIGH IN THE CLEAR SKY.
28º Libra (208): A MAN IN DEEP GLOOM. UNNOTICED, ANGELS COME TO HIS HELP.
29º Libra (209): MANKIND’S VAST ENDURING EFFORT TO REACH FOR KNOWLEDGE TRANSFERABLE FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION. KNOWLEDGE.
30º Libra (210): THREE MOUNDS OF KNOWLEDGE ON A PHILOSOPHER’S HEAD.

1º Scorpio (211): A SIGHT-SEEING BUS FILLED WITH TOURISTS.
2º Scorpio (212): A BROKEN BOTTLE AND SPILLED PERFUME.
3º Scorpio (213): NEIGHBOURS HELP IN A HOUSE- RAISING PARTY IN A SMALL VILLAGE.
4º Scorpio (214): A YOUTH HOLDING A LIGHTED CANDLE IN A DEVOTIONAL RITUAL.
5º Scorpio (215): A MASSIVE, ROCKY SHORE RESISTS THE POUNDING OF THE SEA.
6º Scorpio (216): A GOLD RUSH TEARS MEN AWAY FROM THEIR NATIVE SOIL.
7º Scorpio (217): DEEP-SEA DIVERS.
8º Scorpio (218): THE MOON SHINING ACROSS A LAKE.
9º Scorpio (219): A DENTIST AT WORK.
10º Scorpio (220): A FELLOWSHIP SUPPER REUNITES OLD COMRADES.
11º Scorpio (221): A DROWNING MAN IS BEING RESCUED.
12º Scorpio (222): AN OFFICIAL EMBASSY BALL.
13º Scorpio (223): AN INVENTOR PERFORMS A LABORATORY EXPERIMENT.
14º Scorpio (224): TELEPHONE LINEMEN AT WORK INSTALLING NEW CONNECTIONS.
15º Scorpio (225): CHILDREN PLAYING AROUND FIVE MOUNDS OF SAND.
16º Scorpio (226): A GIRL’S FACE BREAKING INTO A SMILE.
17º Scorpio (227): A WOMAN, FILLED WITH HER OWN SPIRIT, IS THE FATHER OF HER OWN CHILD.
18º Scorpio (228): A PATH THROUGH WOODS RICH IN AUTUMN COLORING.
19º Scorpio (229): A PARROT LISTENING AND THEN TALKING, REPEATS A CONVERSATION HE HAS OVERHEARD.
20º Scorpio (230): A WOMAN DRAWING ASIDE TWO DARK CURTAINS THAT CLOSED THE ENTRANCE TO A SACRED PATHWAY.
21º Scorpio (231): OBEYING HIS CONSCIENCE, A SOLDIER RESISTS ORDERS.
22º Scorpio (232): HUNTERS SHOOTING WILD DUCKS.
23º Scorpio (233): A RABBIT METAMORPHOSED INTO A FAIRY (NATURE SPIRIT).
24º Scorpio (234): CROWDS COMING DOWN THE MOUNTAIN TO LISTEN TO ONE INSPIRED MAN.
25º Scorpio (235): AN X RAY PHOTOGRAPH.
26º Scorpio (236): INDIANS MAKING CAMP (IN NEW TERRITORY)
27º Scorpio (237): A MILITARY BAND MARCHES NOISILY ON THROUGH THE CITY STREETS.
28º Scorpio (238): THE KING OF THE FAIRIES APPROACHING HIS DOMAIN.
29º Scorpio (239): AN INDIAN WOMAN PLEADING TO THE CHIEF FOR THE LIVES OF HER CHILDREN.
30º Scorpio (240): CHILDREN IN HALLOWEEN COSTUMES INDULGING IN VARIOUS PRANKS.

1º Sagittarius (241): RETIRED ARMY VETERANS GATHER TO REAWAKEN OLD MEMORIES.
2º Sagittarius (242): THE OCEAN COVERED WITH WHITECAPS.
3º Sagittarius (243): TWO MEN PLAYING CHESS.
4º Sagittarius (244): A LITTLE CHILD LEARNING TO WALK.
5º Sagittarius (245): AN OLD OWL UP IN A TREE.
6º Sagittarius (246): A GAME OF CRICKET.
7º Sagittarius (247): CUPID KNOCKING AT THE DOOR OF A HUMAN HEART.
8º Sagittarius (248): DEEP WITHIN THE DEPTHS OF THE EARTH, NEW ELEMENTS ARE BEING FORMED.
9º Sagittarius (249): A MOTHER LEADS HER SMALL CHILD STEP BY STEP UP THE STAIRS.
10º Sagittarius (250): A THEATRICAL REPRESENTATION OF A GOLDEN HAIRED ‘GODDESS OF OPPORTUNITY’.
11º Sagittarius (251): THE LAMP OF PHYSICAL ENLIGHTENMENT AT THE LEFT TEMPLE.
12º Sagittarius (252): A FLAG THAT TURNS INTO AN EAGLE THAT CROWS.
13º Sagittarius (253): A WIDOW’S PAST IS BROUGHT TO LIGHT.
14º Sagittarius (254): THE PYRAMIDS AND THE SPHINX.
15º Sagittarius (255): THE GROUND HOG LOOKING FOR ITS SHADOW ON GROUND HOG DAY.
16º Sagittarius (256): SEA GULLS FLY AROUND A SHIP LOOKING FOR FOOD.
17º Sagittarius (257): AN EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE.
18º Sagittarius (258): TINY CHILDREN IN SUNBONNETS.
19º Sagittarius (259): PELICANS, DISTURBED BY THE GARBAGE OF PEOPLE MOVE THEIR YOUNG TO A NEW HABITAT.
20º Sagittarius (260): IN WINTER PEOPLE CUTTING ICE FROM A FROZEN POND, FOR SUMMER USE.
21º Sagittarius (261): A CHILD AND A DOG WEARING BORROWED EYEGLASSES.
22º Sagittarius (262): A CHINESE LAUNDRY.
23º Sagittarius (263): IMMIGRANTS ENTERING A NEW COUNTRY.
24º Sagittarius (264): A BLUEBIRD STANDING AT THE DOOR OF THE HOUSE.
25º Sagittarius (265): A CHUBBY BOY ON A HOBBYHORSE.
26º Sagittarius (266): A FLAG-BEARER IN A BATTLE.
27º Sagittarius (267): THE SCULPTOR’S VISION IS TAKING FORM.
28º Sagittarius (268): AN OLD BRIDGE OVER A BEAUTIFUL STREAM IN CONSTANT USE.
29º Sagittarius (269): A FAT BOY MOWING THE LAWN.
30º Sagittarius (270): THE POPE BLESSING THE FAITHFUL.

1º Capricorn (271): AN INDIAN CHIEF CLAIMS POWER FROM THE ASSEMBLED TRIBE.
2º Capricorn (272): THREE STAINED-GLASS WINDOWS IN A GOTHIC CHURCH, ONE DAMAGED BY WAR.
3º Capricorn (273): THE HUMAN SOUL, IN ITS EAGERNESS FOR NEW EXPERIENCES, SEEKS EMBODIMENT.
4º Capricorn (274): A GROUP OF PEOPLE ENTERING A LARGE CANOE FOR A JOURNEY BY WATER.
5º Capricorn (275): INDIANS – SOME ROWING A CANOE AND OTHERS DANCING A WAR DANCE IN IT.
6º Capricorn (276): TEN LOGS LIE UNDER AN ARCHWAY LEADING TO DARKER WOODS.
7º Capricorn (277): A VEILED PROPHET SPEAKS, SEIZED BY THE POWER OF A GOD.
8º Capricorn (278): BIRDS IN THE HOUSE SINGING HAPPILY.
9º Capricorn (279): AN ANGEL CARRYING A HARP.
10º Capricorn (280): AN ALBATROSS FEEDING FROM THE HAND OF A SAILOR.
11º Capricorn (281): PHEASANTS DISPLAY THEIR BRILLIANT COLORS ON A PRIVATE ESTATE.
12º Capricorn (282): A STUDENT OF NATURE LECTURING REVEALING LITTLE-KNOWN ASPECTS OF LIFE.
13º Capricorn (283): A FIRE WORSHIPPER MEDITATES ON THE ULTIMATE REALITIES OF EXISTENCE.
14º Capricorn (284): AN ANCIENT BAS-RELIEF CARVED IN GRANITE REMAINS A WITNESS TO A LONG- FORGOTTEN CULTURE.
15º Capricorn (285): IN A HOSPITAL, THE CHILDREN’S WARD IS FILLED WITH TOYS.
16º Capricorn (286): SCHOOL GROUNDS FILLED WITH BOYS AND GIRLS IN GYMNASIUM SUITS.
17º Capricorn (287): A GIRL SURREPTITIOUSLY BATHING IN THE NUDE.
18º Capricorn (288): THE UNION JACK FLIES FROM A NEW BRITISH WARSHIP.
19º Capricorn (289): A CHILD OF ABOUT FIVE CARRYING A HUGE SHOPPING BAG FILLED WITH GROCERIES.
20º Capricorn (290): A HIDDEN CHOIR SINGING DURING A RELIGIOUS SERVICE.
21º Capricorn (291): A RELAY RACE.
22º Capricorn (292): A GENERAL ACCEPTING DEFEAT GRACEFULLY.
23º Capricorn (293): A SOLDIER RECEIVING TWO AWARDS FOR BRAVERY IN COMBAT.
24º Capricorn (294): A WOMAN ENTERING A CONVENT.
25º Capricorn (295): AN ORIENTAL RUG DEALER IN A STORE FILLED WITH PRECIOUS ORNAMENTAL RUGS.
26º Capricorn (296): A NATURE SPIRIT DANCING IN THE MIST OF A WATERFALL.
27º Capricorn (297): A MOUNTAIN PILGRIMAGE.
28º Capricorn (298): A LARGE AVIARY.
29º Capricorn (299): A WOMAN READING TEA LEAVES.
30º Capricorn (300): DIRECTORS OF A LARGE FIRM MEET IN SECRET CONFERENCE.

1º Aquarius (301): AN OLD ADOBE MISSION.
2º Aquarius (302): AN UNEXPECTED THUNDERSTORM.
3º Aquarius (303): A DESERTER FROM THE NAVY.
4º Aquarius (304): A HINDU HEALER.
5º Aquarius (305): A COUNCIL OF ANCESTORS.
6º Aquarius (306): A MASKED FIGURE PERFORMS RITUALISTIC ACTS IN A MYSTERY PLAY.
7º Aquarius (307): A CHILD BORN OUT OF AN EGGSHELL.
8º Aquarius (308): BEAUTIFULLY GOWNED WAX FIGURES ON DISPLAY.
9º Aquarius (309): A FLAG IS SEEN TURNING INTO AN EAGLE.
10º Aquarius (310): A POPULARITY THAT PROVES TO BE FLEETING.
11º Aquarius (311): DURING A SILENT HOUR, A MAN RECEIVES A NEW INSPIRATION WHICH MAY CHANGE HIS LIFE.
12º Aquarius (312): PEOPLE ON A VAST STAIRCASE, GRADUATED UPWARDS.
13º Aquarius (313): A BAROMETER.
14º Aquarius (314): A TRAIN ENTERING A TUNNEL.
15º Aquarius (315): TWO LOVEBIRDS SITTING ON A FENCE AND SINGING HAPPILY.
16º Aquarius (316): A BIG-BUSINESSMAN AT HIS DESK.
17º Aquarius (317): A WATCHDOG STANDING GUARD, PROTECTING HIS MASTER AND HIS POSSESSIONS.
18º Aquarius (318): A MAN BEING UNMASKED AT A MASQUERADE.
19º Aquarius (319): A FOREST FIRE QUENCHED.
20º Aquarius (320): A LARGE WHITE DOVE BEARING A MESSAGE.
21º Aquarius (321): A WOMAN DISAPPOINTED AND DISILLUSIONED, COURAGEOUSLY FACING A SEEMINGLY EMPTY LIFE.
22º Aquarius (322): A RUG PLACED ON A FLOOR FOR CHILDREN TO PLAY ON.
23º Aquarius (323): A BIG BEAR SITTING DOWN AND WAVING ALL ITS PAWS.
24º Aquarius (324): A MAN TURNING HIS BACK ON HIS PASSIONS TEACHES DEEP WISDOM FROM HIS EXPERIENCE.
25º Aquarius (325): A BUTTERFLY WITH THE RIGHT WING MORE PERFECTLY FORMED.
26º Aquarius (326): A GARAGE MAN TESTING A CAR’S BATTERY WITH A HYDROMETER.
27º Aquarius (327): AN ANCIENT POTTERY BOWL FILLED WITH FRESH VIOLETS.
28º Aquarius (328): A TREE FELLED AND SAWED TO ENSURE A SUPPLY OF WOOD FOR THE WINTER.
29º Aquarius (329): BUTTERFLY EMERGING FROM A CHRYSALIS.
30º Aquarius (330): MOON-LIT FIELDS, ONCE BABYLON, ARE BLOOMING WHITE.

1º Pisces (331): A CROWDED PUBLIC MARKET PLACE.
2º Pisces (332): A SQUIRREL HIDING FROM HUNTERS.
3º Pisces (333): A PETRIFIED FOREST.
4º Pisces (334): HEAVY CAR TRAFFIC ON A NARROW ISTHMUS LINKING TWO SEASIDE RESORTS.
5º Pisces (335): A CHURCH BAZAAR.
6º Pisces (336): A PARADE OF ARMY OFFICERS IN FULL DRESS.
7º Pisces (337): ILLUMINATED BY A SHAFT OF LIGHT, A LARGE CROSS LIES ON ROCKS SURROUNDED BY SEA AND MIST.
8º Pisces (338): A GIRL BLOWING A BUGLE.
9º Pisces (339): THE RACE BEGINS: INTENT ON OUTDISTANCING HIS RIVALS, A JOCKEY SPURS HIS HORSE TO GREAT SPEED.
10º Pisces (340): AN AVIATOR IN THE CLOUDS.
11º Pisces (341): MEN TRAVELLING A NARROW PATH, SEEKING ILLUMINATION.
12º Pisces (342): AN EXAMINATION OF INITIATES IN THE SANCTUARY OF AN OCCULT BROTHERHOOD.
13º Pisces (343): A SWORD, USED IN MANY BATTLES, IN A MUSEUM.
14º Pisces (344): A LADY WRAPPED IN FOX FUR.
15º Pisces (345): AN OFFICER DRILLING HIS MEN IN A SIMULATED ATTACK.
16º Pisces (346): IN A QUITE MOMENT, A CREATIVE INDIVIDUAL EXPERIENCES THE FLOW OF INSPIRATION.
17º Pisces (347): AN EASTER PROMENADE.
18º Pisces (348): IN A HUGE TENT A FAMOUS REVIVALIST CONDUCTS HIS MEETING WITH A SPECTACULAR PERFORMANCE.
19º Pisces (349): A MASTER INSTRUCTING HIS DISCIPLE.
20º Pisces (350): A TABLE SET FOR AN EVENING MEAL.
21º Pisces (351): A LITTLE WHITE LAMB, A CHILD AND A CHINESE SERVANT.
22º Pisces (352): A PROPHET BRINGING DOWN THE NEW LAW FROM MOUNT SINAI.
23º Pisces (353): A ‘MATERIALIZING MEDIUM’ GIVING A SEANCE.
24º Pisces (354): AN INHABITED ISLAND.
25º Pisces (355): THE PURGING OF THE PRIESTHOOD.
26º Pisces (356): A NEW MOON REVEALS THAT IT’S TIME FOR PEOPLE TO GO AHEAD WITH THEIR DIFFERENT PROJECTS.
27º Pisces (357): A HARVEST MOON ILLUMINATES THE SKY.
28º Pisces (358): A FERTILE GARDEN UNDER THE FULL MOON.
29º Pisces (359): LIGHT BREAKING INTO MANY COLORS AS IT PASSES THROUGH A PRISM.
30º Pisces (360): A MAJESTIC ROCK FORMATION RESEMBLING A FACE IS IDEALIZED BY A BOY WHO TAKES IT AS HIS IDEAL OF GREATNESS, AND AS HE GROWS UP, BEGINS TO LOOK LIKE IT.

Cupping, for Muscular Tension & Liver Inflammation

One of cuppings’ most tantalizing applications is its ability to dredge the intercostals by gently sliding the apparatus along the muscular & fascial contours of the ribs. It can feel quite invigorating, and, as you can see, draws lots of “blood heat” out toward the epidermis, producing a skin redness akin to a guasha treatment.

⚛ Here I am working around 🌳Ganshu (BL18), the back shu point of the liver. Heat in the blood can come from overconsumption of fatty foods, drugs and alcohol—all of which are tended to by the livers enzymes & cytochromes. An excess of these foods and drinks can inflame the liver and irritate digestion and mood. Blood heat (inflammation) can also build up from stress and anxiety, which trigger production of immunosuppressant hormones like cortisol. No Bueno. 💣 The sliding cup helps pull out the heat while opening and dispersing stagnant materials in the exterior body tissues: pain is diminished as blood is moved. The serratus muscles are given a great release as well.

⚖ A reduction in body temperature is something I’ve often noticed, too. Quite a nice therapy when you feel hot all the time!

 

🔥🔥 come try it some time. You’ll not regret it~

Dark Chocolate: A Tonic for Qi & Blood

When a patient has symptoms of a pale tongue, low energy, pallor, fatigue and muscular weakness, I tend to suspect a deficiency of qi and blood. My favorite food-medicine for less severe qi & blood deficiencies is dark chocolate. Dark chocolate is high in iron, fats, fiber and xanthines like caffeine and theobromine. High quality dark chocolates with 70%+ cocoa solids are ideal. This percentage guarantees that you’ll get a significant amount of dense mineral nutrition. I believe that the iron and fats of dark chocolate are good for building blood, while the xanthines help to move blood and increase energy. The fiber itself is good for the  regulating the intestinal system, improving bowel movements and any stasis in the middle jiao. When the intestines are clean, there are less toxins proliferating in the colon. This reduces autoimmune activity, improving energy reserves.

A 100 gram bar of dark chocolate with 70-85% cocoa contains (1):

  • 11 grams of fiber.
  • 67% of the RDA for Iron.
  • 58% of the RDA for Magnesium.
  • 89% of the RDA for Copper.
  • 98% of the RDA for Manganese.
  • It also has plenty of potassium, phosphorus, zinc and selenium.

—https://authoritynutrition.com/7-health-benefits-dark-chocolate/

Qi relates to the fundamental energy we are born with and the caloric energy that we generate as we consume & metabolize food, as well as the oxygen we breathe. Blood is the fluid of the heart, and is responsible for nourishing & moistening the muscles, tendons and other body tissues. There is a saying that “blood is the mother of qi.” This could be likened to the fact that blood relies on iron, which is needed for oxygen transfer throughout the body. Symptoms of hypoxia can arise in anemic persons, as the lack of iron could inhibit qi from reaching the distal extremities. Qi moves blood, so if there is a lack of one, it feeds into the pathos of the other.

Iron helps red blood cells deliver oxygen from the lungs to cells all over the body. Once the oxygen is delivered, iron then helps red blood cells carry carbon dioxide waste back to the lungs to be exhaled. Iron also plays a role in many important chemical reactions in the body.

—http://www.medicinenet.com/iron-page2/supplements-vitamins.htm

If blood isn’t moving, then that means the erythrocytes (red blood cells) are sitting around with lots of carbon dioxide… Perhaps this leads to inflammation, pain and autoimmune reactions in tissues, from muscles to bones. I believe Qi gong, tuina, reiki, acupuncture and herbal therapies could really benefit the person who is fatigued due to blood disorders like this. The vibrational, energetic and manual therapies can help to move the blood, and the herbal and nutritional therapies could restore the person’s qi and blood.

Cacao beans (an herb nonetheless).

So, choose any dark chocolate you like, and let your blood cells rejoice.