Laureen Macintosh Dr.Ac.

Trade your antihistamines for a natural alternative. Discover how acupuncture, the ancient Chinese medicinal practice, can help alleviate allergy symptoms without the side effects of traditional medications. Feel the relief as your body's energy flow is re-balanced and your immune responses are strengthened. Let's explore the benefits of acupuncture for
Research: a series of acupuncture treatments provides a significant reduction in nasal symptoms.
Feng S, Han M, Fan Y, et al. Acupuncture for the Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy. 2015;29(1):57-62.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), dandelions have been used for various health purposes for centuries. Here are some of the potential health benefits attributed to dandelions in TCM:

1. **Liver Support**: Dandelion root is believed to have a detoxifying effect on the liver, helping to remove toxins and promote overall liver health. In TCM, the liver is considered crucial for the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) throughout the body, and dandelion is thought to support this function.

2. **Digestive Aid**: Dandelion has been used traditionally to stimulate digestion and improve appetite. It is believed to have a gentle laxative effect, helping to promote bowel movements and alleviate constipation.

3. **Diuretic Properties**: Dandelion is known for its diuretic properties, meaning it can increase urine production and help flush out excess fluids and waste from the body. This can be beneficial for conditions such as water retention, bloating, and urinary tract infections.

4. **Anti-inflammatory Effects**: In TCM, dandelion is often used to reduce inflammation in the body. This can be helpful for conditions such as arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory disorders.

5. **Blood Sugar Regulation**: Some traditional practitioners believe that dandelion may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it potentially beneficial for individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance.

6. **Immune Support**: Dandelion contains various vitamins and minerals that support immune function. In TCM, it is sometimes used to strengthen the body's defenses against infections and illnesses.

7. **Skin Health**: Dandelion has been used traditionally to improve skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Its detoxifying properties may help purify the blood, which can have a positive effect on the skin.

It's important to note that while dandelions have a long history of use in traditional medicine systems like TCM, scientific research on their health benefits is still ongoing. As with any herbal remedy, it's advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using dandelion or any other herb for medicinal purposes, especially if you have any existing health conditions or are taking medications.

All the rain we have had recently has brought spring into full force. The May Day trees are scenting the air with their perfume and the Lilac bushes aren't far behind.

I'll be out of the office for a week. Taking my own advice and doing some self-care. Visiting family and seeking some relaxation near the ocean.

How can you tell spring has arrived in Calgary?
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Pasque flowers, robins, and chaotic weather. Today shorts, tomorrow snow.

When was the last time you dedicated some time to self-care? Life gets so busy it is easy to forget to take a little time to look after yourself.
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What is your favourite self-care routine? One of my ways to relax is a cup of cinnamon tea and a good book. Share your self-care tips below to share with other readers.
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Suffering from jaw pain? Please be careful about the treatment options out there. Surgery should always be a last resort.
In case you haven't tried it - massage and acupuncture can reduce muscle tension and help relieve pain in the jaw.

The Horrors of TMJ: Chronic Pain, Metal Jaws, and Futile Treatments - KFF Health News TMJ disorders affect as many as 1 in 10 Americans and yet remain poorly understood and ineffectively treated. Many common treatments used by dentists lack scientific evidence.

Easter is when I really start thinking that spring is here. Even if there is still snow on the ground. I did see a robin the other day; another sign of spring. I'm looking forward to the crocus blooms that are sure to come soon.
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Happy Easter to those who celebrate it.
Happy Spring to everyone.
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I've been doing a bit of a deep dive into fascia as part of my TMJ course. This image of a dew-covered spider web is a great analogy of what our fascia looks like.
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Fascia is a web of connective tissue that permeates and connects all parts of the body. It has many functions. They include:
* support for muscles & organs
* lubrication of muscles allowing them to slide across each other as they work
* provide proprioception information (where our limbs are in space)
*a communication network between structures
Image by mac231 of Pixabay

Have you tried acupuncture? Many people think of large hypodermic needles when they hear acupuncture. But acupuncture needles are really quite tiny in comparison.
These tiny needles can create large changes in the body. These changes include pain relief and stimulating the healing response.

Celebrate the achievements of the women in your life today. March 8 is International Women's Day.
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I'm currently taking an advanced course on how to treat jaw pain. Today the instructor shared the following article that talks about how poor postures can contribute to jaw pain.
https://www.medcentral.com/pain/chronic/tmd-facial-pain-forward-head-posture?fbclid=IwAR2sAk98JQOceAJCkHLBPoTCbjpXNS0Y1jeAKnzhmEB2080kOVAOa22ZP1Q

TMD/Facial Pain and Forward Head Posture Forward head posture in TMD/facial pain patients—with its attendant craniocervical, neurophysiologic, and arthrokinematic interactions—may be either a causative or aggravating factor in TMD that must be treated. Read about TMD/facial pain and forward head posture.

It's snowing! The snow looks so beautiful today. Especially if you don't have to drive. Please be a kind neighbor and shovel your sidewalks. And check out this blog post for tips on shoveling safely.
https://laureenmac.com/safe-snow-shoveling-tips/
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Great news for people who suffer from jaw pain. I'm taking an advanced course in treating TMJD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction). I'll be looking for people to practice on in mid-March.

🎉 Happy Lunar New Year 🎉
2024 is the Year of the Dragon which is considered one of the most auspicious and powerful years in the Chinese zodiac. The dragon symbolizes strength, success, and good luck.
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Think of this year as a time of great potential and opportunity. Harness your inner power to meet this year's goals.
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I've been teaching lots lately and my throat has been scratchy lately. A student gave me some of her Asian pear yesterday. So sweet and soothing on my throat. That reminded me of how effective TCM is.
Poached pears with honey are an excellent way to soothe a dry throat boost Lung Qi.

After the rain & snow the sun comes out. One of the things I love about is how much sun we get.
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Feeling the January blues? Here are 5 foods that can help boost your mood.

5 foods to boost your mood There is growing evidence showing that certain foods can help improve your overall mood and reduce the risks and symptoms of depression. Here are five foods that could help boost your mood and beat the winter blues.

Finishing off the 12 Days of Wellness the theme is integration. Wellness is a journey that lasts a lifetime not just 12 days.
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To make wellness a habit, start by setting realistic goals. Begin with small changes, such as incorporating physical activity into your daily routine or making healthier food choices. Consistency is key, so try to engage in these activities regularly. If it helps, create a schedule or routine that includes time for self-care.
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Surround yourself with a supportive community. Seek out like-minded individuals who share your wellness goals and can provide encouragement and accountability. Additionally, limit exposure to negative influences that may hinder your progress.
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Stay mindful and listen to your body's needs. Pay attention to any signs of stress or burnout and take necessary steps to address them. Practice self-compassion and be gentle with yourself during setbacks or challenges.
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Lastly, make wellness enjoyable. Find activities that bring you joy and make them a part of your routine. Remember, wellness is a lifelong journey, so be patient with yourself and celebrate every small victory along the way.

🎄 Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a fantastic New Year! May this time of year bring you warmth, love, and happiness. As we bid farewell to this year, may you leave behind all the challenges and embrace new beginnings with open arms. I hope the coming year brings you health, success, and prosperity.

Day 11 of the 12 Days of Wellness is all about self-care. During this busy holiday season make sure you take a bit of time to look after yourself. Then make it a habit for the rest of the year.
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Self-care is a powerful practice that promotes overall well-being. Prioritizing self-care can enhance your physical, mental, and emotional health.
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Many of the previous 10 posts are important aspects of self-care. Engaging in hobbies, pursuing personal interests, and setting boundaries to protect personal time are also crucial aspects of self-care. By making self-care a priority, individuals can cultivate a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/988578?ecd=mkm_ret_231222_mscpmrk-OUS_CaSpecial_etid6160158&uac=225405HZ&impID=6160158

Scientific Advances and Dietary Measures to Slow Down Aging Researchers have identified new indicators of aging, and one expert calls for the development of rational strategies to intervene in humans.

Holidays are often a time to get together with family and friends. Day 10 of the 12 Days of Wellness is a reminder to keep those connections all year.
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Regular social interactions can help reduce stress, lower the risk of developing chronic diseases, and improve overall well-being. Engaging in social activities, such as spending time with friends and family, participating in community events, or joining clubs and organizations, promotes a sense of belonging and purpose, which are essential for healthy aging.
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Research has shown that individuals who have strong social networks tend to have better physical and mental health outcomes as they age. Additionally, social connections provide emotional support and a support system during challenging times, contributing to better resilience and coping mechanisms.
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Take time this holiday season, and all year round, to connect with family and friends and let them know how much they mean to you.

A US study (initially published in JAMA 2023) found that both acupuncture and massage helped reduce pain in patients with advanced cancer.

Acupuncture vs massage – IMPACT Stimulated by Epstein et al 2023.[1] Visual abstract… IMPACT – Integrative Medicine for Pain in Patients with Advanced Cancer TrialMSKCC – Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterPEACE – Person…

Day 9 of the 12 Days of Wellness is all about positive thinking. A perfect match to today being the Winter Solstice - we can rejoice that the days will start getting longer again.
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A positive mindset has numerous health benefits that can improve overall well-being. Firstly, it reduces stress levels by promoting the release of endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals. This can lead to lowered blood pressure, decreased risk of heart disease, and improved immune function. Additionally, a positive mindset enhances mental health by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. It improves cognitive function and memory, allowing for better problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
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A positive mindset also fosters resilience, enabling individuals to better cope with adversity and bounce back from setbacks. It promotes healthy lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep, which contribute to physical well-being. Lastly, a positive mindset enhances social connections and relationships, leading to increased happiness and a sense of belonging.

Look after your gut bacteria and they'll look after you.

We Know Healthy Gut Fights Infection. New Study Reveals How First-of-its-kind study could pave the way for microbiome-based treatments for infectious disease.

Do you drink enough water? Hydration is the focus for Day 8 of the 12 Days of Wellness.
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Good hydration is essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being. It plays a crucial role in various bodily functions and offers numerous health benefits.
1. Staying well-hydrated helps regulate body temperature, especially during physical activity.
2. Drinking water aids in digestion and nutrient absorption, preventing issues like constipation and promoting a healthy gut.
3. Proper hydration supports cardiovascular health by maintaining blood volume and preventing dehydration-related complications.
4. Getting enough water can also improve kidney function by ensuring adequate blood flow and preventing the formation of kidney stones.
5. Hydration is essential for healthy skin, as it helps maintain elasticity and moisture, reducing the risk of dryness and wrinkles.
6. Staying hydrated supports cognitive function, concentration, and mood.
7. It can boost energy levels, reduce fatigue, and improve athletic performance.
To maximize the health benefits of hydration, it is important to drink water throughout the day and listen to your body's thirst cues.

Good sleep is so important that it is the focus for Day 7 of our 12 Days of Wellness. Getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining good health and overall well-being.
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Some of the benefits of a good night's sleep include improved cognitive function, enhanced immune system, better emotional well-being, repair of body tissues, and reduced risk of chronic disease.
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In today's fast-paced world, many of us struggle to prioritize sleep. We often sacrifice those precious hours of rest for work, socializing, or simply scrolling through our phones. But the truth is, neglecting sleep can have serious consequences on our physical and mental health.
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Here are a few tips for improving sleep quality. Establish a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Create a relaxing bedtime routine to signal to your body that it's time to wind down. Avoid stimulating activities or bright screens before bed, as the blue light can disrupt our natural sleep cycle. Make sure your bedroom is cool, quiet, and dark. If you find yourself struggling with racing thoughts at night, try journaling or practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
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Remember, quality sleep is not a luxury; it's a necessity.

Day 6 of the 12 Days of Wellness is dedicated to stress management. Chronic stress has many negative impacts on health and wellness. Here are a few simple activities to help you manage stress:
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1. Take deep breaths: Deep breathing activates the body's relaxation response, reducing stress and promoting calmness.

2. Practice mindfulness: Engage in activities that bring your attention to the present moment, such as meditation or yoga.

3. Go for a walk: Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters and can help reduce stress.

4. Listen to calming music: Slow tempo music can help lower heart rate and blood pressure, inducing relaxation.

5. Write in a journal: Expressing your thoughts and feelings on paper can help you gain perspective and reduce stress.

6. Engage in a hobby: Doing something you enjoy, like painting, gardening, or cooking, can distract your mind from stressors.
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Do you have some favourite stress-busting activities? Share in the comments below.