Anti-Inflammatory Herbs & Spices You Should Add To Your Diet

Did you know that chronic inflammation in the body has been linked to a wide range of illnesses, diseases and health complications? These include cancer, diabetes, ADHD and even heart disease among many others. Luckily, with modifications to your diet you can decrease the inflammation that occurs within your body, reducing your risks of these problems.

Today, Dawn Potter Acupuncture in Clearwater is discussing various anti-inflammatory herbs and spices that can help. Got questions? Interested in scheduling an appointment? Reach out to Dawn Potter Acupuncture today, we’re welcoming new patients.

Turmeric (Curcumin)

Perhaps one of the most discussed anti-inflammatory spices, Turmeric has long been used in Chinese medicine to aid in inflammation reduction, the treatment of digestive orders and even to address infections and certain wounds. Turmeric contains Curcumin (the compound that gives turmeric its yellow pigment) and can be added to a variety of foods and drinks. Supplements of Curcumin are also available in various forms.

Chili Peppers (Capsaicin)

Like a little spice in your diet? Well you’re in luck! Different kinds of chili peppers contain capsaicin (which makes it hot) and is known to have an anti-inflammatory effect in the body. All chili peppers contain capsaicin and can be used in a variety of dishes to increase the heat. Supplements are also available.

Black Pepper (Piperine)

Black pepper is an extremely common spice that you’ll find on the table at most homes and restaurants. Black pepper contains a chemical known as piperine (giving it the distinctive flavor) which even at low doses can reduce inflammation in the body along with reducing the perception of pain in some patients. (And it helps the body to absorb and utilize turmeric!)

Ginger

Ginger is another common spice that has shown great results in reducing inflammation in the body, among other things. Ginger is a wonderful addition to many dishes along with drinks. You can even make a nice strong tea using just the root.

Contact Dawn Potter Acupuncture in Clearwater, Florida Today

Ready to try these wonderful anti-inflammatory spices and herbs in your diet? Let us know what you think! Interested in scheduling acupuncture in Clearwater or another treatment option? Contact Dawn Potter Acupuncture today.

Acupuncture For Pregnancy Related Back Pain / Pelvic Pain?

Are you or a loved one currently pregnant? Have you been experience certain pain due to your pregnancy such as back pain or pelvic pain? Wondering if acupuncture treatments may be able to help? Today, Dawn Potter Acupuncture in Clearwater, Florida is discussing recent analysis of research about various studies on acupuncture in relation to pain experienced during pregnancy. Have more questions? Wondering if our treatment options are right for you? Feel free to reach out! We even offer free 15 minute phone consultations and would be happy to get you on the schedule.

Is Acupuncture Safe During Pregnancy?

Many people often wonder whether acupuncture is even safe during pregnancy and the answer is yes, when performed properly. Dawn has vast experience working with pregnant patients and would be happy to discuss your needs to see if she can help.

Studies On Acupuncture For Pregnancy Pain

A recent analysis that was published in BMJ Open (an open access research journal) that looked at 10 different studies and over 1,000 patients that experienced back pain or pelvic pain during pregnancy (17-30 weeks). Participants in these studies were on average 35 years of age or younger and otherwise healthy individuals. Based upon the data from these various studies, the analysis authors concluded that acupuncture treatment can be effective for reducing back pain/pelvic pain associated with pregnancy. Acupuncture is also known to have little to no complications as well.

What About Acupuncture For Other Pregnancy Symptoms?

In other studies acupuncture has been found to be helpful for morning sickness (and even Hyperemesis gravidarum - an extremely severe form of pregnancy sickness), fatigue, stress/anxiety and even GI related issues.

Schedule Acupuncture For Pregnancy in Clearwater, FL Today

Interested in acupuncture during pregnancy in Clearwater, Florida? Visit our scheduling site, send us a message or give us a call today to get started. We’re always happy to help.

What The Heck Is A “Gua Sha Massage”?

When it comes to different wellness treatment options, Gua Sha is one of them that people are often quite curious about. Some people refer to Gua Sha as “gua sha massage”, “gua sha therapy”, etc. It is also sometimes referred to as the “Graston Technique” when used in sports medicine, but may be a bit different depending upon practitioner. Have additional questions? Interested in scheduling an appointment? Want to book a free wellness consultation to discuss Gua Sha or another treatment option? Visit our booking site, send us a message or give us a call today.

So… What Is Gua Sha? Gua Sha is a treatment modality rooted in traditional Chinese medicine that many acupuncturists offer. During treatment, a smooth-edged tool is used to gently scrape areas of the body. Depending upon where you are having a problem and what problem you may have, Gua Sha may be performed on different areas of the body to achieve results. What Does Gua Sha Do? Gua sha can help with stagnant qi, inflammation, circulation and healing when properly performed. A more “Americanized” version of Gua Sha known as the “Graston Technique” has been used since the 1990s in sports medicine to address muscles or scar tissue and can help to stretch and relax those areas. Does Gua Sha Hurt?

When most people hear “scraping” they think Gua Sha may be painful. When performed properly, Gua Sha should not hurt at all. The entire treatment should be gentle and relaxing. If you for any reason feel uncomfortable during your Clearwater Gua Sha treatment, we ask that you immediately say something so that we can access why that would be happening.

Schedule Gua Sha in Clearwater, Florida Today

Ready to schedule Gua Sha in Clearwater? Book your appointment here, send us a message or give us a call today to get started.