Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine Clinic

11/22/2025

Daily chronological progression of the menstrual cycle (DA1–DA8)

DA1: Menstruation begins, characterized by decreased estrogen (↓E), decreased progesterone (↓P), and increased follicle-stimulating hormone (↑FSH), signalling the start of the menstrual cycle.
DA2: Continued uterine bleeding occurs as follicle recruitment progresses, with rising FSH levels stimulating multiple follicle growth.
DA3: Bleeding diminishes as estrogen levels increase (↑Estrogen), leading to the proliferation and regeneration of the endometrial lining in preparation for potential pregnancy.
DA4: The early proliferative phase starts, marked by a further rise in estrogen (↑Estrogen), which promotes rapid endometrial cell division and thickening.
DA5: Menstrual bleeding ceases; estrogen levels peak significantly (↑↑Estrogen), completing the proliferative phase and preparing the endometrium for potential implantation.
DA6: The endometrial lining continues to thicken; serum FSH levels decrease (FSH ↓) due to negative feedback from rising estrogen, which stabilizes follicular development.
DA7: A dominant follicle emerges, secreting increased estrogen (↑Estrogen), which signals the hypothalamic-pituitary axis to modulate hormone release and support further maturation.
DA8: The mid-follicular phase features high estrogen levels, supporting ongoing follicular growth and preparing for ovulation by optimizing the ovarian environment.

10/15/2025

I picked some Red Delicious apples from my backyard. There are still some high up that I couldn’t reach. 🧗🍎🍎😄

In TCM, red delicious apples can strengthen the spleen and stomach, promote fluid production and appetite, reduce internal heat, and help moisten the lungs and relieve constipation. However, they are neutral in nature.

09/13/2025

still outdoor. 🔥🌧️🌂

08/30/2025

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08/20/2025

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08/18/2025

Solidago decurrens L., commonly known as Canada Goldenrod, is a native perennial found across much of Canada and the USA. It features cascading clusters of golden-yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and fall, attracting bees, butterflies, and birds, making it ideal for pollinator gardens.
It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to address wind-heat colds, headaches, sore throats, lung-heat coughs, and more.

08/13/2025

Catalpa chinensis bark (Zǐ bái pí/梓白皮) is a traditional Chinese medicine that clears heat and dampness, relieves nausea and vomiting, and alleviates itching. It’s used for damp-heat jaundice, gastric reflux, sores, eczema, and itchy skin, affecting the lung and stomach meridians.

07/24/2025

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07/24/2025

Performed acupuncture and cupping in the evening sun 🌞 for a patient suffering from neck and back pain caused by cold and damp accumulation. She felt good.

Best time to treat your pain and stiffness is now!

07/09/2025

I’m making Uyghur/Uzbek pilaf today with colourful carrots I got from the farmers’ market. 👩🏻‍🍳🥕🥕
Each carrot colour has a slightly different nutritional profile due to the unique phytonutrients it contains.

🟧 Orange carrots:
• Rich in beta-carotene, a vitamin A precursor, supports vision, skin, and immune function.
• Beta-carotene is what gives them their bright orange colour.

🟨 Yellow carrots:
• Contain lutein, which supports eye health and may help filter harmful blue light.

🟪 Purple carrots:
• Contain anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and heart-protective effects.
• They usually still have some beta-carotene, especially if the inside is orange.

⚪ White carrots:
• Lower in pigments, so they have fewer phytonutrients like beta-carotene or anthocyanins.
• They still provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but have a milder flavor.

06/16/2025

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a lemon-scented herb in the mint family, valued for its medicinal and culinary uses. Here are its key benefits, uses, and precautions:

🌿 Benefits:
1. Calming & Anti-Anxiety: Reduces stress, anxiety, and promotes relaxation.
2. Sleep Aid: Improves sleep quality, especially when combined with valerian root.
3. Digestive Support: Relieves indigestion, bloating, and nausea.
4. Cognitive Function: It may enhance focus and memory, a potential benefit for Alzheimer’s.
5. Antiviral & Antioxidant: Exhibits antiviral properties, notably against HSV, and combats oxidative stress.
6. Menstrual & PMS Relief: May alleviate cramps and mood swings.

☕ Common Uses:
- Tea: Steep leaves in hot water.
- Capsules/Extracts: For concentrated doses.
- Topical Creams: Effective for cold sores.
- Culinary: Flavour enhancer for various dishes.

06/13/2025