Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Anxiety Disorders

Acupuncture reduces the symptoms of anxiety, depression, panic disorders. It has been shown that acupuncture has a naturally calming effect by increasing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Using acupuncture and herbal medicine can be very effective and works well with other therapies. Most patients report a long lasting result.

Studies have shown that following acupuncture treatment, resting heart rate becomes lower, and a deep sense of calm is experienced.  Acupuncture and depression are treated well in pregnancy. Having acupuncture during any stage of pregnancy for the treatment of anxiety and depression is safe and effective with minimal side effects. This is a wonderful way to treat a pregnant woman naturally.

Acupuncture is also extremely effective in treating anxiety and depression when patients are going through a detox. This could be from quitting smoking, or as an adjunct therapy while going through drug or alcohol rehabilitation. This is very important when patients rely on a natural and effective treatment with no side effects.

Using acupuncture for anxiety and other anxiety related disorders requires a treatment plan, most often two acupuncture treatments per week to begin with. Acupuncture needles remain in the body from approximately 30 minutes to 45 minutes. There are little to no side effects.

What to expect

Usually within 2 to 4 weeks that patients say they feel more calm, more grounded, and have the ability to function much better throughout the day. They also see improvement in sleep patterns along with a general sense of well-being.

Can acupuncture eliminate my need for medication?

A common question is whether acupuncture can be a replacement for psychotherapy or prescription medication. When there is psychotherapy or prescription medications involved, we advise not making any changes unless we are working with your prescribing doctor. Often, acupuncture is an excellent adjunct therapy and does not interfere with any other courses of treatment that you may have. There also many key Western and Chinese herbal medicines for the treatment of anxiety and depression. These should only be prescribed by a licensed health provider in herbal medicine. Often, when herbal medicine is prescribed, there is a dramatic improvement in energy, mood, and sleep patterns.