FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

leftWhat is Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy?

Bio-Identical Hormones, derived from natural plant sources, are identical to the hormones that the body produces for itself naturally. When we are “replacing” the body’s hormones, we feel it makes more sense to use entities that the body recognizes as its own, rather than hormones from other mammals such as horses or overly potent synthetic versions.

The hormones we use are Estradiol (E2), Estriol (E3), progesterone, testosterone, and DHEA. They are prepared from pure, plant-derived elements, by a pharmacist at a compounding pharmacy.

Oral capsules, transdermal creams, vaginal suppositories, and troches (a lozenge that dissolves between the gum and tongue) are some examples of dispensary forms that are available which makes it more suitable to customize the therapy program to fit every individual patient’s needs.

rightWhat is Holistic Medicine and its benefits?

Holistic medicine is a system of health care which fosters a cooperative relationship among all those involved, leading towards optimal attainment of the physical, mental-emotional, social and spiritual aspects of health.

It emphasizes the need to look at the whole person, including analysis of physical, nutritional, environmental, emotional, social, spiritual and lifestyle values. It encompasses all stated modalities of diagnosis and treatment including drugs and surgery if no safe alternative exists. Holistic medicine focuses on education and responsibility for personal efforts to achieve balance and well being.

Holistic Health supports reaching higher levels of wellness as well as preventing illness. People enjoy the vitality and well-being that results from their positive lifestyle changes, and are motivated to continue this process throughout their lives.

Eastern medicine is a term that encompasses a whole system of medical practices performed in different countries in Asia, which include acupuncture, martial arts, herbal medicine, Feng Shui, and massage (i.e. shiatsu). Of these therapies, acupuncture and Chinese herbology are the most popular in the United States. Some additional therapies include diet, nutrition and lifestyle counseling, as well as tai chi and Qi Gong (physical exercise), and tui’na (manual therapies). Since many of the Asian medicine and therapies are rooted in Chinese philosophy and the principles of Chinese medicine, the monograph focuses mainly on Chinese medicine.

What is Eastern Medicine?left

Eastern medicine describes a system of health care and maintenance comprised of an array of treatment modalities and interventions. At its most basic level, Asian medicine includes the use of acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, manual therapies, dietary guidelines and meditative exercises. These distinct modalities and treatment techniques share a theoretical framework defined by the interdependent relationship of Yin and Yang and arise from theories put forth in the canon of Chinese medical texts. Each technique is used to achieve a specific aspect of the treatment strategy which is determined as part of the diagnosis at the onset of the session.

The concept of health in Asian medicine can be defined as the dynamic balance of yin and yang within the individual and between the individual and his or her environment.

The concept of illness in Asian medicine suggests a body’s inability to respond and adapt to changes in the environment, diet, aging/development, or an inability to rid the body of an attacking pathogen. In Asian medicine, patterns of disharmony are used to diagnose illness.

right What is Integrative Medicine?

Integrative Medicine is the concept of treating the whole body, physically, mentally and spiritually. It falls under the same ideas and principals as Holistic Medicine.

left

What is Integrative Approach to Nutrition?

Integrative Approach to Nutrition emphasizes the importance of health and well being as well as the personal, more spiritual side of diet in respect to one’s physical body as well as the social and political implications of one’s diet.

Primary food is a concept that is an essential element of integrative approach to nutrition. Primary food refers to what is required to lead a healthy and fulfilling life that has purpose at its center. It is not about food per se, but it encompasses many things such as a nutritious diet, regular exercise, the fostering of healthy relationships and finding fulfillment in one’s career path. Integrative approach nutrition also addresses the spiritual element of the soul and how nourishing it can support an individual’s quest for a more joyful life.

This combined approach to wellness, healthy eating, physical activity and personal growth can offer a new way of approaching living in general. Instead of separating all of the elements of living a healthy and purposeful life, it brings them all together to be viewed as a whole. The Institute for Integrative Nutrition® in New York was founded by a man named Joshua Rosenthal, who is also the director of the school. Some of the instructors are well known, such as Deepak Chopra.