Eastern Influence on Foods and Herbs
“To keep the body in good health is a duty, otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.” ~Buddha
Having a healthy diet affects every part of our body and mind; what we put into our bodies nourishes our brain as well as our cells. In the east, the belief is that diet is an extremely individualized approach and that different foods affect people differently.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, people are given food and herbs as part of the healing process according to their own unique needs. For example, if a person was having problems with arthritis, herbs may be given and certain foods may be suggested for a reduction of inflammation. Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that arthritis is brought about by climate changes, and that there are foods and herbs (Du Huo) which help to reduce things such as cold and dampness within the joints. Foods like turnips help to stimulate the blood and the energy within the body, and alleviate pain and swelling.
Even in the Ayurveda approach which originated in India, the emphasis is on the individual and not the disorder. The goal is to bring about balance of the ‘doshas’ or metabolic types through proper nutrition and detoxifying of the system.
Eastern practices believe that different foods carry different energies to areas of the body. For example, cold dairy products are believed to cause dampness and, therefore, create excess mucus in the lungs.
In western culture, more often than not, medications are often prescribed for people’s ailments which sometimes carry a long list of side effects. In the west, we tend to focus on treating the ‘ailment’ versus the person and what he/she needs.
At CNY Healing Arts, we have trained staff members to help you with nutritional needs. Our licensed acupuncturists have knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine and herbal remedies. Let us help you; give us a call today!
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