Herbs and macrobiotics
I do not think I could not got involved in the Chinese medicine. Not with my natural interest in herbs I’ve cultivated since adolescent years. And belief that we can help our body to heal itself with natural methods such as herbs and functional foods. Having come across macrobiotics in my early 20-ies and practicing it in my kitchen for a number of years, quickly did I realise the importance of food for our body wellbeing and health.
Nevertheless, I was looking for more comprehensive system which would combine it all; the practice, method and theory.
And knew macrobiotics, though helpful in some cases, wasn’t the answer.
Although I’d known back then about the Chinese medicine as was already treated by Chinese medicine specialists 25 years ago, I could not find much courage to embank on the journey myself. Just not yet.
Guess, was too healthy…
Vegetarianism and menstrual problems
The breakthrough came when I returned to Poland after 10 years of travelling. And I said to myself now it is good opportunity to explore this ancient wisdom which basic principles I was already incorporating.
I took on Chinese dietetics course first. As being vegetarian for over 20 years back then, I was experiencing health issues. Sever cold and very painful menstruations were just few of them. I was examined for endometriosis but turned out it was not my case. So I knew western medicine couldn’t help me as my problem was not named. Had to find answers turning towards alternative sources.
Following the Chinese dietetics, there were other courses I took in Krakow and Gdansk, but being naturally inquisitive I needed a system which was more comprehensive. And I couldn’t find one in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).
Classical herbal formulas and ICEAM
By chance and huge luck, I participated in a four day teaser-course which was a part of comprehensive studies in Classical (or Canonical) Chinese medicine. And it prompted me to further my studies in classics.
What made the difference?
These were the logic and clear references to the Classical Chinese medicine texts and methods, practiced long before communist cultural revolution in China (and TCM).
In 2021 I finished 3-year advance studies in herbal medicine and received my Diploma in Canonical Chinese Medicine (DCCM) from the Institute of Classics In East Asian Medicine (ICEAM). Canonical Chinese Medicine is a style of Chinese medicine practiced along the tenets outlined in the manuscripts of the Han dynasty (circa 200 B.C.E.), also known as canons. Under the guidance of my teachers Laurie Ayres BS, LAC, DCCM, FICEAM, and Arnaud Versluys Ph.D., MD, L. Ac, (lineage holder of the Tian-Zeng lineage), I have received extensive and advanced training in pulse and abdominal diagnosis techniques which make Canonical Chinese Medicine one of the most pragmatic and advanced styles of herbalism.
I am committed to continually expanding my own knowledge and skills as a practitioner through perpetual learning and study. The studies deepen my knowledge on classical way of thinking. And I gained deeper theoretical knowledge and greater clinical efficacy through mastery of the Han dynasty canonical teachings. According to the principles of the Shang Han Lun and the Jin Gui Yao Lue.
Follow on that, I still continue to advance my practice and understanding on Han dynasty teaching, by participating in seminars and courses taught by my teachers.
How I work in my clinic
In my clinical practice, I check medical history, take a pulse and palpate abdomen (hara diagnosis) to prescribe the best herbal formula for my patients. Check what to expect from Chinese herbal medicine consultation to learn more about the method and visit.
What conditions I can help with
Chinese medicine is recognised by WHO as a valid way in preventing diseases and can help with a good number of conditions. I specialise in women’s health (from infertility to problems with menstruation), skin conditions, allergies and digestive problems, and stress, anxiety and insomnia, to name just few.
However, Shang Han Lun and Jin Gui Yao Lue – two core texts in classical Chinese medicine, include treatment for a number of conditions including:
- Respiratory and cardiovascular problems
- Digestive disorders
- Fatigue and stress
- Anxiety and insomnia
- Skin conditions and allergies
- Women’s health, fertility, pregnancy and post-partum
Read more on Chinese herbal medicine.