Research & Articles

Teachers I admire at my alma mater (Steve Bonzak) and in our profession-at-large (Dr. Huang and Sharon Weizenbaum) speak decisively about raw herbal medicinals as the time-tested, irreplaceable gold standard. Pioneering veteran farmers Jean Giblette and Peg Schafer emphasize that a demonstrated, steady demand by herbal clinicians for ecologically cultivated raw medicinals is imperative to the confidence North American farmers need to risk growing these specialty crops.

The Zhen Qi Tang (真气堂) clinic is a busy, privately run clinic in Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu Province in northwestern China. Lanzhou is an ethnically diverse city, and the powerful, muddy Yellow River runs through its center. Because of its location at the southern part of the Silk Road (Gansu Corridor), Lanzhou has always been a center of trade and cultural exchange. Not far from Lanzhou are the Mogao Caves at Dunhuang, which hold a rich and vast collection of Buddhist art; in 1990, a library cave was also discovered, containing many ancient relics and texts.

This January 2014, Pacific College of Oriental Medicine New York opened the doors to its new campus location in Lower Manhattan. The PCOM New York campus moved from its long-held Flatiron District location in December 2013, just in time to ring in 2014 from its new home on 110 William Street, New York NY 10038. The campus move will provide new opportunities for students and patients alike. Campus Director Malcolm Youngren says, “The space is larger than our previous campus. The new space is 42,000 square feet compared to 38,000 square feet. This move has enabled us to create a larger student lounge and increase the number of classes and treatment rooms.”

The Year of the Horse has arrived! On January 31, 2014, the Chinese New Year celebration began, complete with gorgeous hanging lanterns, traditional lion dances, and incredible firecrackers. In essence, Chinese New Year is about spending time with family, gift-giving, and the much-anticipated holiday feast. The history of Chinese New Year spurs from legends that have been passed down over centuries about a mythical lion-like beast that preyed on villagers. This beast was known as “Nian,” which in Chinese is translated to “year.” Legend has it that a wise man told the villagers that the only way to conquer the evil Nian was to make loud noises with drums and firecrackers and hang red paper cutouts and scrolls on their doors as Nian was scared of the color red.

Colds and the flu virus plague most people at least once a year. Hardly anyone manages to escape the typical runny nose, itchy eyes, and high fevers associated with a cold or the flu virus. However, traditional Chinese medicine has been very successful in treating patients who suffer routinely from colds and the flu virus. Individuals who are especially prone to contracting them should further investigate this viable alternative to standard treatment. Traditional Chinese medicine uses natural herbs such as Angelica root and field, to rid your body of viruses.

February is one of the most common times of year for people to get sick. Kids go back to school and parents get back in the swing of a busy work schedule after the holidays. Our minds and bodies are synched and often when our minds are overwhelmed, it’s our bodies that take the beating. Sore throats, stuffy noses, body aches, and even the flu are all common symptoms of a mid-winter slump. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a ready remedy—give your body the right fuel and it will run smoothly.

A recent issue of Acupuncture Today reported big news for one of the largest medical schools in the United States. The University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Health System has begun to introduce methods of Eastern medicine into their medical curriculum. Journalist Daniel Ramirez reports, “By meshing a 3,000-year-old medicine with cutting-edge medical science, one of the largest medical institutions in California is hoping to lead the way by proving there are effective ways to deal with disease with a new type of care that incorporates both East and West.” This was an exciting development for proponents of integrative health who believe that the more options available for patients, the better.

The heart of a healer is filled with compassion and the desire to serve. The heart of a warrior is filled with honor and the desire to serve. These two worlds come together at PCOM.  Some of our current students, alumni, and staff are veterans themselves.  Giving back to the community is not just about … PCOM Staff, Faculty and Alumni Giving Back to Veterans

Real-life tips from Pacific College Alumna and Founder/President of Pink Image Breast Thermography Clinic Wendy Sellens, LAc Congratulations, you’ve graduated! You have your acupuncture and/or massage license, and you’re ready to start your private practice. Looking at the monetary costs can be overwhelming, but don’t be discouraged; it can be done. My first and most … Building a Practice on a Budget: Getting Started

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a major multi-tasker. This powerful liquid can improve your health from the inside out, from digestive improvements to skin and hair growth. There are numerous advantages to taking a daily small dose of ACV. What’s more, this natural remedy can work wonders on your home, pets, and cooking as well! … What Does Apple Cider Vinegar NOT Do?

Are you interested in becoming a massage therapist? Massage is a sought-after form of relaxation and is often thought to be a luxury. At Pacific College of Oriental Medicine (PCOM), we teach more than massage for relaxation. We know that massage is good for the body as well as the mind. With our ancient Asian … What is Massage Therapy Used For? Consider How Massage Can Heal

Massage therapists are naturally nurturing, intuitive individuals. They dedicate their careers to helping others release pain and get their bodies back into balance. However, if a massage therapist doesn’t take great care to avoid it, they may be on a path toward the opposite effect on their own health. Remember, you best serve your clients … Self Care Tips for Massage Therapists: You Take Care of Others’ Pain, Be Sure to Prevent Your Own