Who We Help
Depression
Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide. There is no single known cause of depression. It is believed that brain chemistry, gut microbiome, hormones, genetics, life traumas and experiences all play a role.
Chinese Medicine has successfully brought those suffering out of the dark cloud that depression can be.
There are varying types of depression:
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seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
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post partum depression (PPD)
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major depressive disorder
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premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
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situational depression
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persistent depressive disorder
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Depression can cause someone to be overwhelmed with feelings of sadness, worthlessness or hopelessness. It can change their appetite, sleep, focus and energy. Everyday activities begin to feel difficult and there can be a lack of motivation and interest in things that once gave them joy. The reality is, depression affects everyone differently. You may only be experiencing one of these symptoms and not even realize that something is off.
In Chinese Medicine, we look to the state of Depression as a spirit that is dampened, not shining or flowing.
Emotional trauma can block the flow of energy and blood and/or weaken vitality. It is crucial to determine the underlying factor. Depression tends to be many layers of pathology that may involve different organ systems and channels. For example, Stasis in the lungs produces grief while stasis in the kidneys is related to fear.
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Oftentimes you will see the Liver Organ system involved. The Liver’s job is to ensure the smooth flow of emotions. In depression, people can sometimes feel a lack of motivation. The liver rules decision making, goals, vision. Kidney Yang vacuity could be at play. Yang is all about action, life, movement, warmth, vitality. The Kidneys hold your life’s purpose, your will to live, zest for life, motivation. It is important to have a proper diagnosis by a Chinese Medical professional to determine how to treat your depression.
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Here at The Medicine Tree, we utilize Five-Element Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and Functional Nutritional Therapy combined with targeted lifestyle adjustments to get to the root.
Patient Stories
"I came to Liz seeking treatment for a torn meniscus, on the physical level, but more so for a crippling mental state as precipitated from several unfortunate events. At the onset of treatment, I felt that my spirit was heavily buried; I was having a hard time finding meaning in my life. I elected to see her twice a week in order to make significant progress and really work on myself.
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Liz was a powerful catalyst in my healing process and helped me to reinvigorate my being, work through some psychological issues and my leg felt better with every treatment.
Having already experienced Five Element practitioners, I can say that Liz’s energy is, comparatively, very strong as a healer. I felt the Qi (energy) very palpably through the points she would needle during treatment (which is not always the case with acupuncturists). In her office, she has created a unique and thoughtful space which is a calming sanctuary to relax in before and after treatment. Most importantly Liz embodied a compassionate and genuine presence with me in the treatment room. She is a sensitive, intuitive and gifted acupuncturist and I am grateful for her help in getting me through a difficult time."
- A.S.
Ailments We Treat
Addiction
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Smoking cessation
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Drug or alcohol addiction
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Autoimmune / Immune System
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Lupus
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HIV / AIDS
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Allergies
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Systemic inflammation
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Rheumatoid arthritis
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Fibromyalgia
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MS
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Chronic Fatigue
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Anklyosing spondylitis
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Circulatory
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Hypertension
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Angina pectorals
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Arteriosclerosis / cholesterol
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Hypoxemia
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Palpitations
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Dermatological
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Eczema
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Psoriasis
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Acne
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Dermatitis
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Aging (wrinkles, age spots, dullness, dark circles, pufffiness)
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Rash
ENT
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Sinusitis
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Tinnitus
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Vision issues
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Sore throat
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Common colds
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Hay fever
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Epistaxis
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Gastrointestinal
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IBS
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Crohns
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Ulcerative Colitis
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Ulcers
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Gastritis
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Bloating
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Constipation
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Diarrhea
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Hemorrhoids
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GERD
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Reflux
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Food sensitivities
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Malabsorption
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SIBO
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Candida
​Genitourinary
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Bladder infections
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Bladder prolapse
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Frequent urination
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Prostate issues
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Shy bladder
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Painful urination
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Gynocological
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PMS
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Painful periods
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PCOS
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Endometriosis
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Menopause
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Irregular cycles
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Infertility
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Hormone imbalance
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Menstrual clots
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Metabolism
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Hyper / hypothyroid
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Weight regulation
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Fatigue
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MTHFR
​Mood Disorders
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Chronic stress
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PTSD
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ADD / ADHD
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Musculoskeletal
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Low back pain
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General chronic pain
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Sciatica
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Tennis elbow
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Arthritis
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Neck tension
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frozen shoulder
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Tendinitis
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Sprains
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Muscle spasms
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Bulging discs
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Neurological
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Migraine
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Epilepsy / seizure disorders
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Chronic headaches
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Trigeminal neuralgia
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Parkinson's
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MS
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Lyme disease
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Bells Palsy
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Effects of Stroke
Pregnancy
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Morning sickness
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Vomiting
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Fatigue
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Back pain
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Swelling
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Breech baby
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Common cold care
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Depression
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Headaches
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Respiratory
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Asthma
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Bronchitis
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Pneumonia
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Common colds
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Flu
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Rhinitis
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Chronic cough
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Sinusitis
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Lung Disease
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Hypoxemia
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Sexual Issues
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Low libido
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Erectile dysfunction
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Vaginismus
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Premature ejaculation
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