Cupping is a form of therapy that utilizes suction to pull up on the skin and fascia. It is largely used to help relieve pain—especially in the back, neck, shoulders, and hips. It is also used to boost the immune system. Basically, the cups cause an immune response from the body, thus invigorating the body’s own natural defenses. There are areas of the body that are traditionally used for this purpose.

Tui na, Chinese manual therapy, is used to help increase the efficacy of acupuncture treatments. We commonly use these massage techniques to stop pain, reduce stress, and help the body heal.

Moxibustion, or moxa, refers to the burning of mugwort, Artemesia spp., over specific points and areas of the body. There are several styles and techniques of moxibustion. At Acacia Natural Health we commonly use moxa to warm cold areas, reduce pain, boost and clear energy, and support the immune system.

Gua sha refers to the use of a tool—usually made from horn, jade, or ceramic—to scratch the surface of the skin. We mostly use gua sha for pain in the neck, back, shoulders, elbows, and knees. We also use gua sha to support the body’s immune system.