Hematology refers to the study of blood. So, clinically we are talking about the treatment of blood diseases. The diseases that can be treated with Chinese medicine are the following:

Red Blood cell Disorders			White Blood Cell Disorders
	Anemias						Infectious Mononucleosis
Aplastic Anemia						Eosinophilia
Myelodysplastic syndrome				Leukopenia
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria			Leukemia
Pure red blood cel aplasia				Lymphoma
Megaloblastic anemia
Iron deficiency anemia				Hemostatic Disorders
Thalassemia						Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura
Anemia due to chronic renal failure			Primary Thrombocythemia
Sickle cell anemia					Allergic Purpura
	Polycythemia Vera				Hemophilia
							Purpura Simplex

Chinese Herbal Medicine

In modern day China, the field of Hematology within traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is relatively new. While these disease patterns have been treated for thousands of years, it is recently that the combined use of western methods along with TCM methods is being used.

In the past TCM doctors would base treatment solely on presenting symptoms. TCM still works best when used with strict regard to TCM pattern discrimination. However, now a more focused treatment plan can be implemented and monitored with use of western blood analysis.

Combined treatment using western methods such as chemotherapy, radiation and surgery along with Chinese herbal medicinals brings much better results than either used in isolation. Longevity, as well as quality of life are both greatly improved.

During treatment with chemotherapy agents the body is under tremendous stress. While chemotherapy agents are very strong and can destroy cancer cells, they are not selective and destroy healthy cells as well.

Chinese herbal medicinals help protect the body during treatment and maintain health after treatment with chemotherapy. This allows for better tolerance and longer periods of remission.

Herbal medicine works at many levels. Some herbs work on improving digestion and absorption, others work at a deeper level improving bone marrow function and others work at the blood level itself. Circulation is improved and vital nutrients are better distributed throughout body tissues and to the organs where they are needed.

Research has shown some of the following functions of Chinese medicinals:

* Promote healthy blood production
* Increase adrenocortical output (this helps fight fatigue)
* Enhances the immune system
* Prevent bone marrow damage
* Regulate peristaltic and secretory functions in the GI tract
* Enhance absorption of nutrients in the small intestine

Acupuncture

While herbal medicine is considered the standard of care for hematology patients, acupuncture does have a role to play.

Acupuncture has been shown to be effective for controlling chemotherapy side effects such as nausea and vomiting. It can also benefit the immune system and help fight of issues with fatigue.

In one study the rate of control (no nausea or vomiting during a week of chemotherapy treatment) was 64.7% and the rate of effectiveness (may have some nausea and possible vomit 1-2 times per day) was 91.2%.

We are happy to discuss your personal situation either on the phone or via email.