A Gift of Healing: The Importance of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Integrative Cancer Research – A Perspective by Cathy Margolin, L.Ac.

Posted by Cathy on September 21, 2023

Dear Friends and Fellow Advocates of Holistic Healing,

I am thrilled to share some spectacular news that not only resonates deeply with my heart but also underscores the incredible potential of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in the realm of cancer research. The City of Hope, a beacon of hope in the world of medical science, has recently received a generous $100 million gift to further integrative cancer research in Sept. 2023. . As a licensed acupuncturist and fervent advocate of TCM, I cannot help but emphasize the significance of this milestone and how it paves the way for a brighter future in holistic healthcare.

We all have lost loved ones to cancer. Conventional cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, have indeed made remarkable strides in extending and improving the lives of cancer patients. However, they often come with debilitating side effects that can take a profound toll on a person’s physical and emotional well-being.

In this backdrop, the infusion of Traditional Chinese Medicine into cancer research is nothing short of revolutionary. TCM is an ancient healing system that has been practiced for thousands of years, with a primary focus on balancing the body’s energy, or “qi,” and promoting overall health. It includes therapies like acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and Qi Gong, all of which have shown promise in alleviating cancer-related symptoms and enhancing the effectiveness of conventional treatments.

Andrew and Peggy Cherng acknowledged the value of an integrative approach to cancer care and investment in a future where patients receive comprehensive, patient-centered care that addresses not only the physical aspects of the disease but also the emotional and spiritual dimensions. TCM plays a pivotal role in achieving this vision. Thank you Andrew and Peggy Cherng.

Acupuncture is a cornerstone of TCM and has gained recognition for its effectiveness in managing cancer-related pain, nausea, and fatigue. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, it can help alleviate discomfort and improve a patient’s quality of life during treatment.

TCM herbal remedies are tailored to address individual patient needs and are pivotal in complementing conventional therapies by reducing side effects, boosting the immune system, and promoting overall wellness.

TCM also includes dietary therapy which emphasizes the importance of nourishing the body with the right foods. It can help cancer patients maintain their strength, manage symptoms, and support their recovery.

Stress reduction and emotional support is another critical factor in the cancer journey where TCM can help patients foster a more positive mindset. Practices like Qi Gong and meditation, both rooted in TCM, can help patients manage stress, anxiety, and depression.

The collaboration between the City of Hope and Traditional Chinese Medicine is a testament to the recognition that the future of medicine lies in integration. It’s about merging the wisdom of ancient healing traditions with cutting-edge medical science to provide patients with the best of both worlds. This approach recognizes that every individual is unique, and their healing journey should be equally unique.

As a licensed acupuncturist, I have witnessed the transformative power of TCM in the lives of countless patients. It’s not just about treating symptoms; it’s about nurturing the body’s innate capacity to heal itself. This $100 million gift signifies a shift towards a more holistic, patient-centric approach to cancer care that is profoundly hopeful.

The integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine into cancer research is a testament to the enduring power of ancient healing traditions in our modern world. It embodies the belief that healing should encompass not only the body but also the mind and spirit. I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and am profoundly grateful to all those who have contributed to this important initiative. Together, we can transform the landscape of cancer care and offer patients a brighter, more holistic future.

With heartfelt optimism,

Cathy Margolin, L.Ac. Dipl, Oriental Medicine

Founder Pacific Herbs

New Pain Reliever Alternative to Opioids or Anti-Inflammatory Drugs available from Pacific Herbs

Posted by Cathy on June 28, 2018

NEW PAIN RELIEVER ALTERNATIVE TO OPIOIDS OR ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS AVAILABLE IN PACIFIC HERBS’ CORYDALIS NATURAL PAIN RELIEF

Bend, OR — Pacific Herbs, an Oregon wellness company, intends to stem the opioid addiction crisis and our reliance upon unhealthy over-the-counter pain relievers like Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen with its Chinese-herb product Corydalis Natural Pain Relief, which just received a coveted AMA code. Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist Cathy Margolin developed a comprehensive line of health products from Chinese herbs that treat everything from anxiety and sleep challenges to women’s issues. Her formulation based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and specifically designed for pain is Corydalis Natural Pain Relief, which is a mixture of corydalis root and other TCM herbs, including turmeric. The synergistic combination of these herbs is especially beneficial when pain is mixed with inflammation, such as back pain or chronic or acute orthopedic pain, as it blocks pain receptors in the brain.

Margolin says, “I’m concerned about our opioid crisis that just prompted the United States Senate to introduce SB 1079, Protecting Americans From Dangerous Opioids Act. SB 1079 lists findings that opioids killed over 33,000 people in the United States in 2015. We need safer alternatives for managing pain.”

Additionally, there is growing evidence that non-prescription medications like Advil and Tylenol, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), have serious side effects. Long-term use of acetaminophen can cause liver damage and this drug is one of few over-the-counter products with a black box warning.

Corydalis Natural Pain Relief can be helpful for many types of pain and can be safely consumed long-term without creating other harmful side effects. Studies from the University of California, Irvine have confirmed that this plant root can be effective in managing low to moderate chronic pain, as it has been used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine. Turmeric, one of the herbs in Corydalis Natural Pain Relief, is cited as a welcome alternative to traditional drugs for its anti-inflammatory properties. The formulation of this product is granular which allows quick absorption in the body.
In addition to its healing properties, Pacific Herbs’ Corydalis Natural Pain Relief is recently distinguished by its American Medical Association (AMA)-approved billing code, rendering it an insurable item for many individuals, which is extremely rare for a nutraceutical product. For additional information on pharmacies that carry the product or to order it online, go to www.pacherbs.com.

About Pacific Herbs:
Cathy Margolin is a Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist and a Diplomate of Oriental Medicine and founder of Pacific Herbs, an herbal wellness company based in Bend, Oregon. She has dedicated her life to bringing the benefits of Chinese herbs and Traditional Chinese Medicine to Western audiences. Margolin may be reached at cathy@PacHerbs.com or by phone at 877-818-9990.

PR CONTACT: Chelsea Callicott, chelsea.callicott@hotmail.com, 541.410-4162

‘Tis the Season for Chinese Herbs as Food

Posted by Cathy on November 19, 2013

Traditional Chinese Medicine theory believes that each season has a different energy to it, and as such, we should replicate the energy of that season in order to maintain balance within ourselves. During this season, as our responsibilities grow and we find ourselves searching for more energy, protection for our immune system should be at the top of our lists. One way to do this and improve digestion is with a few common Chinese herbs. There are a large number of herbs that can be easily found in your local grocery stores. Here are three to get you started.

Gou qi zi, more commonly known as goji berries, has become a staple at most local grocery stores, and in many different trail mixes. This potent Chinese herb has been used for thousands of years in Traditional Chinese Medicine, (TCM) and has been used as a remedy for everything from anemia to increasing immunity. It’s both high in Vitamin C and also contains many antioxidants. Including them in your diet is simple – sprinkle them on your cereal in lieu of a sweetener, or have them as a snack in the afternoon when you’re looking to increase your energy. Studies are also beginning to suggest that they can even help to inhibit cancer growth and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimers.

Sheng jiang, more commonly known as fresh ginger, is a savior for anyone who has ever experienced nausea, an upset stomach due to overeating, or the onset of a cold. Fresh ginger is used in a significant number of Chinese herbal formulas and is known for its ability to simultaneously stimulate the appetite and to calm the stomach. It is believed to ease nausea by increasing digestive fluids while absorbing and neutralizing toxins and stomach acid. Add several slices of ginger to water and bring it to a boil for tea, or even include it in your favorite chicken soup recipe at the first signs of sneezing or coughing.

Rou gui, more commonly known as cinnamon bark, not only marks the holiday season but can also aid in keeping you warm as the temperatures drop. It’s an excellent way to tonify your Kidney energy as well, which serves as a storehouse of energy for your entire system. Use it as a garnish to your hot chocolate or apple cider, or even include it in your holiday snack mix.

The beauty of Chinese Herbal Medicine is that even if we can’t slow our schedules to accommodate the downturn of activity reflected in the natural world around us, we can look to the natural world to provide us with support as we move through this time of year.

Can Chinese Herbs Be The Next Cancer Treatment?

Posted by Cathy on October 16, 2013

Traditional forms of medicine may offer hope for cancer.

Experts from Cardiff University's School of Medicine have joined forces with Peking University in China to test the health benefits of a traditional Chinese medicine. The new treatments come from Chinese herbs used for liver, lung, colorectal cancers and osteosarcoma of the bones.

"Traditional Chinese medicine where compounds are extracted from natural products or herbs has been practised for centuries in China, Korea, Japan and other countries in Asia," according to Professor Wen Jiang from Cardiff University's School of Medicine, who is the director of the Cardiff University-Peking University Joint Cancer Institute at Cardiff and led the research as part of a collaboration between Cardiff University and Peking University.

The traditional Chinese herb formula consist of 14 herbs. The formula has been shown to be beneficial to cancer patients. The researchers have discovered how the formula work. Apparently it works by blocking a pathway which stops the spread of cancer cells in the body.

"It suggests that combining the formula with conventional as well as new therapies could hold the key to developing new treatments for cancer patients.

"We are already looking to clinical trials in treatment of lung and other cancer types."

Funded by Cancer Research Wales and the Albert Hung Foundation – the results will be presented at the European Cancer Congress 2013 which takes place in Amsterdam between the 27th September and 1st October.

http://www.sciencecodex.com/combining_chinese_and_western_medicine_could_lead_to_new_cancer_treatments-120173

Chinese Herbs Safety Information

Posted by Cathy on September 12, 2013

Many people today turn to alternative medicine to deal with an array of health issues, including trouble with sleep, menopause, pms, lack of energy, weight loss…the list goes on.

It is extremely important then that we know what we are putting in our bodies. All foods, including herbs have the potential to be dangerous if grown with heavy pesticide use. Pacific Herbs has been aware of this from the birth of our company…. and that’s why we use the gold standard of testing to ensure the quality and safety of our herbs.

Watch this short video explaining how you can learn if your herbs are safe.

Ever Wonder Where Your Herbal Supplements Come From ?

Posted by Cathy on August 24, 2013

Have you ever you wondered where your herbal supplements really come from? Did you know that 95% of what you're buying at U.S. health food stores originated in China or was processed in China or India?

Below is a section of one of the many emails I get nearly daily from companies who want to sell me their ingredients. As you can see much of it is written in Mandarin and there is no mistake the company selling these ingredients is based in China. When I inquired with them about testing of their products they, like so many companies have DO no testing on their raw materials or finished products. I said, "WHAT, NO TESTING?" Yup, that's right. No tests! That means if the farment used pesticides you will get pesticides in your herbal supplements.

If you are concerned your supplements may contain heavy metal, pesticides, bacteria, E-Coli, and other contaminents you are right. They probably do! Get your products from a trusted source. Only buy from companies that produce COA's (Certificates of Analysis) and have lot numbers and expiration dates on their products. This is the only way to know you're not getting cheap ingredients produced at the cheapest prices without testing and without assurance that your herbal supplements and vitamins are truly safe.

(Company information deleted to for my protection)

New Research Says Breast Cancer Triggered By Artificial Hormone Progestin

Posted by Cathy on July 22, 2013

Another day and another friend/mother/sister/daughter diagnosed with breast cancer. Today breast cancer is affecting one in every eight women sometime during their lifetime in the USA, Europe and the UK. Looking around at my friends, family and extended family we need no reminders of the impact of these statistics. But there is good news, actually GREAT news– medical researchers at the Institute of Molecular Biotechnology (IMBA) of the Austrian Academy of Sciences in Vienna identified a key protein that triggers breast cancer and in December 2012 received a grant of $7.4 million from the USA Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program for ongoing research.

Working for the last ten years, the research team has been able to show the synthetic female sex hormone progestin used in HRT and contraceptive pills can trigger RANKL (a protein found in breast cells). As a consequence of this trigger, mammary cells start to divide and multiply and fail to die when they should. Moreover, stem cells in the breast become able to renew themselves, ultimately resulting in breast cancer.

The research around the artificial sex hormone progestin, used in hormone replacement therapy, HRT, and in birth control pills has been the center of work for Professor Josef Penninger, (IMBA director) who found the first genetic evidence that this protein RANKL is the master regulator of healthy bones and breast cell multiplication.

“Ten years ago we formulated the hypothesis that RANKL might be involved in breast cancer and it took us a long time to develop systems to prove this idea”, says Prof. Josef Penninger. ” I have to admit it completely surprised me just how massive the effects of the system were. Millions of women take progesterone derivatives in contraceptives and for hormonal replacement therapy. Since our results show that the RANKL system is an important molecular link between a synthetic sex hormone and breast tumors, one day women may be able to reduce their risk by taking blocking medicines in advance to prevent breast cancer”.

Alternative answers are available for women suffering with menopausal symptoms and want relief from hot flashes and night sweats without adding artificial hormones to their body. Natural solutions used in Traditional Chinese Medicine are available that are safe and are made from natural plant sources, not artificial hormones.

Alternative birth control methods beyond the pill include the IUD’s without hormones, condoms, diaphragm, natural rhythm method and permanent birth control in the form of tubal litigation.

The research results presented here was an international collaboration between lead researchers at IMBA and scientists at the Medical University of Vienna; the Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia; the Ontario Cancer Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Harvard School of Public Health, Harvard Medical School and the Ragon Institute of MGH/MIT and Harvard, Boston, USA; the Institute for Genetics, Centre for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), and Cologne Excellence Cluster (CECAD), University of Cologne, Germany; University College London, UK; and the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany.

http://phys.org/news/2011-01-progesterone-breast-cancer.html

Adverse Reactions with the Birth Control Pills Yaz and Yasmin

Posted by Cathy on July 22, 2013

In Canada, 600 adverse reactions and 23 deaths have been reported between 2007 and February 28th, 2013 among women taking the birth-control pills (BCPs) Yaz and Yasmin (recorded by Health Canada and first reported by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation). In Canada, 600 adverse reactions and 23 deaths have been reported between 2007 and February 28th, 2013 among women taking the birth-control pills (BCPs) Yaz and Yasmin (recorded by Health Canada and first reported by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation).

Adverse reactions for both products were most commonly found to affect the nervous system, vascular system, respiratory/thoracic/mediastinal systems, and cardiac function. Bayer produces a synthetic progestin called drospirenone, and BCP’s containing this sythetic hormone carry a label warning stating that its use increases risk of venus-thromboembolism 1.5 to 3 times higher than other BCP’s. (The FDA added the warnig in 2012.)

Health Canada released a statement that they view the benefits of Yaz and Yasmin outweigh these risks. The safety of contraceptive pills are monitored continually, just like other drugs. However, a woman may decide that the risks are too great, considering there are other viable options available that do not interfere with her hormones. This is especially important information concerning the health and wellness of young women who take the birth control pill for bad pms and period pain. Pacific herbs has a great remedy for menstrual cramps called PMS relief.

The first class-action lawsuit was filed in April against Bayer (producers of Yaz and Yasmin) in Canada and 13 more suits are pending. ln the US, Bayer paid $1.2 billion in settlements in thousands of lawsuits (reported by The Globe).

Mark Blumenthal Discusses What Everyone Wants to Know About Medicinal Plants

Posted by Cathy on July 5, 2012

What is our cultural heritage to plants?

Why should you know about medicinal herbs, Chinese herbs and the contributions of herbs, herbal drinks and herbal remedies?

One reason is herbal medicine can be used safely as the first choice for self care and preventative care. A cultural shift is occurring right now, herbal remedies ARE growing every year, we are returning to our roots and are cultural heritage. This video explains it all.

Click here to learn more http://newhope360.com/herbal/mark-blumenthal-discusses-abcs-mission-promote-medicinal-plants?cid=nl_nbj_weekly

Mark Blumenthal discusses these in the video below. Mark is the founder of American Botanical Council (ABC) located in Austin Tx. He is is dedicated to disseminating accurate, reliable, and responsible information on herbs and medicinal plants. He is the Editor/Publisher of HerbalGram, an international, peer-reviewed quarterly journal. For six years he was an Adjunct Associate Professor of Medicinal Chemistry at the University of Texas at Austin, College of Pharmacy, teaching the course “Herbs and Phytomedicines in Today’s Pharmacy.” Mark is the Senior Editor of the English translation of The Complete German Commission E Monographs–Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines (1998), Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs (2000), The ABC Clinical Guide to Herbs (2003), and co-author of Rational Phytotherapy, 5th edition (2004). He has appeared on over 400 radio and television shows and has written over 500 articles, reviews and book chapters for many publications.

Good Fat Is Good and Other Profound Ideas in Chinese Medicine

Posted by Cathy on February 18, 2012

Something new from Harvard School of Public Health that I thought news worthy.

Fat in our diet is apparently really good for us according the Harvard nutrition experts.

A group of nutrition researchers recently gathered in Napa, California at the World of Healthy Flavors Conference. The conference brought together experts in the culinary field along with nutrition experts from schools, supermarkets and franchise restaurants to share strategies for healthy menu options. The most important news from the conference came from the “Focus on Fat” panel. Their recommendation is now to AVOID “low-fat” menu items and instead focus on cutting “trans fats”. (Trans fats are rare in living nature, but can occur in food production process.) They are now encouraging this new criteria be used to educate people on seeking healthy fats. Healthy fat would include those that come from nature, like fish oils, egg yolks, organic milk and cheese because fat is actually good for us.

What does this have to do with Chinese medicine, Chinese herbs and herbal supplements, all of which are the usual blog topics.

I can think of only one correlation to Chinese Medicine, if you would call it that. During the thousands of years of development of Chinese medicine, never did experts do a complete about face, as with this advice to start eating fats again. Chinese medicine (from the earliest manuscripts found in a nobleman’s burial chamber and dated 168 B.C.E.) have always been based on the same principals. After 2000 years these principals have never flip flopped. They have been expounded upon but have never been completely abandoned for a new, better version.

Western nutritionist in less than 50 years declare first that fat is bad and tell us to reduce our fatty diets. Less than a half century later they now declare fat is actually good for us. How can we trust what they say? I agree that man mad processed fat, the “trans” fats cannot possibly be healthy fat, I’m just shocked that they can flip flop in just a few short years. Thank goodness the oldest system of medicine in the world, Chinese medicine, survived generations on principals that makes so much sense they have never had to completely flip flop.

Maybe we need a history lesson? Here’s hoping all your fats are healthy ones.

Reference:

Time to stop talking about low-fat, say Harvard (HSPH) Nutrition Experts

No Hoodia in Some Hoodia Diet Pills

Posted by Cathy on January 25, 2012

I've written many blogs on the subject of "know your supplement manufacturer." The recent hoodia claims are the very reason I talk about this so often.

The appetite suppressant Hoodia has gotten some attention lately because GeoPharma and Breakthrough Engineered Nutrition, falsely advertised Hoodia in their products when actually the products contained no Hoodia. Weight loss products have notoriously attracted some of the less scrupulous companies.

However, it is reassuring that companies falsifying claims are eventually caught and put out of business. But many continue in business for years before legal authorities catch them. Do your research, know your supplements and the supplement manufacturers. Ask trusted health professionals to help you find the best natural supplements for you. Your health is the most important commodity you have.

Chinese Herb Helps Prevent Osteoporosis

Posted by Cathy on December 4, 2011

The Herb Salvia Miltiorrhiza Used in an Extract Helps Osteoporosis.

New evidence now exists about the Chinese herb, Salvia Miltiorrhiza. This herb has been used for thousands of years and has been praised for its benefits for cardiovascular disease. The latest study on Salvia Miltiorrhiza indicates that this Chinese herb can also be beneficial to those suffering with osteoporosis, a thinning of the bones or loss of bone density over time.

The recent osteoporosis study results showed Salvia Miltiorrhiza (also known as Dan Shen) “significantly reduced the decrease in bone density.” The researchers believe the preventative effect of this Chinese herb was “due to its anti-oxidative stress via modulation of osteoclast maturation and number.” The researchers went on to say it “appears Salvia Miltiorrhiza could be a promising new osteoporosis therapeutic natural product.”
As women age and go through menopause they often begin to worry about their bone density. Chinese herbs are a safe and natural answer for this concern.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, TCM, Dan Shen is well known for promoting blood circulation and soothing nerves. It improves micro-circulation, is an excellent anti-oxidant, reduces blood fat and helps the liver and kidneys to regulate.

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