SOHMA Integrative Medicine

We offer the best of Eastern & Western medicine without using drugs or surgery

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What Does Ozone Therapy Do?

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Ozone is a naturally occurring gas in the atmosphere, discovered in the 1840s. Most people know of ozone for it being the gas protecting us from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. Recently, ozone has been found to help with a variety of diseases and health issues. 

Join me as we look into what ozone therapy is, and what it can do for you.

What is Ozone Therapy?

Ozone therapy is the administration of ozone intravenously for its therapeutic properties. It can be used as a stand alone therapy, or as a complementary therapy with other treatments such as Myer’s cocktail IV therapy. Ozone has amazing anti-inflammatory properties and acts as a disinfectant. It has been shown to help manage symptoms from a number of conditions including:

  • Arthritis
  • Joint Pain
  • Respiratory Problems
  • Allergies
  • Skin Conditions
  • Chronic Fatigue

Ozone therapy improves blood circulation which is invaluable when maintaining a healthy body. Poor blood circulations can lead to an accumulation of fluids in the body which causes swelling. When this occurs it’s difficult for the body to properly circulate blood, this leads to a number of symptoms including:

  • Spider Veins
  • Skin Discoloration
  • Edema
  • Eczema
  • Ulcers
  • Pain in Arms and Legs
  • Numbness and Tingling in Arms and Legs

Pain Reliever

Ozone’s anti-inflammatory properties allow it to reduce swelling in people suffering from injuries or diseases. By reducing inflammation less pressure is placed in the joints and ligaments providing some pain relief from injuries and forms of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms of arthritis affecting over 30 million adults in the country. This degenerative joint disease often affects older adults and commonly occurs in the hands, hips, and knees. It causes pain, stiffness, swelling and loss of range of motion. 

Ozone’s anti-inflammatory properties can be used to reduce pain and increase range of motion. Although there is currently no known way to reverse the damage caused by osteoarthritis. Ozone therapy can be used to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life of these patients. In some patients ozone therapy can give valuable time in delaying or avoiding major invasive treatments such as surgery.

Fights Pathogens

Pathogens are microorganisms that can infect the body and cause disease, these include viruses, fungi, and bacteria. Every year people suffer from bacterial or viral infections. Especially during the holidays when many people travel and visit friends and family. Most common viral infections like the cold and flu are not curable and need to run their course.

 Ozone therapy’s antiviral properties may be used to reduce viral replication in the body to reduce the period of time you feel ill. Bacterial infections have been shown to resolve within a few days after ozone therapy. Modern bacterial infections have begun to become progressively more resistant to antibiotics, it’s possible that ozone therapy may be how we fight bacterial infection in the future.

Boosts Immune System

As we age our natural immunities begin to decline. Our immune system is our body’s main line of defense from infections. Ozone therapy can be used to give weak immune systems a boost.   Ozone therapy can improve your blood circulation and may clear your arteries of potential infections by oxidizing the pathogens.

Ozone can help produce antioxidants which are needed to keep balance with free radicals. Too many free radicals can cause oxidative stress which can cause you to feel sluggish, fatigued, or sensitive to noises. With regular ozone therapy you may be able  to improve overall metabolism by returning balance between free radicals and antioxidants in your body.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

What is Laser Therapy for Back Pain?

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Laser therapy is a modern and proven treatment to help with back pain

Back pain is a problem nearly 65 million Americans suffer with every year. While about 16 million adults suffer from chronic back pain that forces limitations for some everyday activities. Due to back pain being such a common problem, there is a wide variety of causes including some of the following conditions:

  • Herniated disk
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Muscle strains
  • Muscle sprains
  • Injury
  • Poor posture

Fortunately there are many ways to help ease chronic back pains without resorting to surgery or prescription pharmaceuticals that only temporarily reduce pain and rarely treat the underlying problem.

Treatments like chiropractic adjustments, medical massages, acupuncture, and non-surgical spinal decompression are great alternative options to treat back pain.

However, today we’re going to be exploring laser therapy, and how it can help with back pain.

What is Cold Laser Therapy?

When a patient is treated with laser therapy, the skin is exposed to the particles of lights which are then absorbed by the mitochondria of the cells triggering the production of adenosine triphosphate. Adenosine triphosphate is a natural occurring chemical responsible for fueling the body’s cellular processes. Exposure to the light from the laser may improve blood circulation and speed up the process of healing. Afterward, the cells exposed to the lasers are completely unharmed and return to their normal processes.

SOHMA Integrative Medicine of Long Beach CA is excited to offer Cold Laser Therapy. This FDA cleared medical device is used to help reduce pain and accelerate the body’s natural healing.

Using Erchonia’s FX 635 laser resulted in a 72% success rate in their clinical trial, which received market clearance by the FDA in May of 2018. Laser therapy treatment of lower back pain has been shown to be a safer, more effective option that may result in patients going back to their day-to-day life in no time. Low level lasers can be used to effectively reduce and eliminate chronic pain in the back, neck and shoulders.

Is Laser Therapy for Me?

Absolutely, laser therapy is extremely safe. For the majority of people, there is very little to no sensation during treatment. They may feel a mild warmth as the laser is being used but there is no pain. Patients claim laser therapy is calming and relaxing, with some patients falling asleep during the therapy.

In some cases some patients report soreness or swelling though this lasts for only a few hours. In extreme cases some bruising may appear, but this is typically harmless and will fade away after a few days.

There are some people who should consider other forms of relief for their back pain like the aforementioned acupuncture, chiropractic, or medical massages. For patients with suspected cancerous lesions or carcinoma as the laser can have a negative reaction to the skin. Due to not enough research being done on how the laser may affect an unborn child, pregnant women are not recommended to undergo this procedure.

Laser therapy is an exciting new practice that feels like it’s straight out of science fiction. It unlocks some of the natural healing power our bodies have, which is incredibly powerful. While new, it is still considered a viable alternative treatment option for those seeking to relieve back pain without taking addictive opioids or risking expensive and invasive surgeries. Laser therapy is great as a standalone treatment or as a complementary treatment with chiropractic or acupuncture, ask the helpful staff at SOHMA if you have any further questions about laser therapy.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

5 Benefits of Seeing a Chiropractor

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Visiting Chiropractors can help prevent and treat common pains.

It’s not uncommon for people to decide to visit a chiropractor after an injury or accident. And although chiropractic care is a great choice for treating some injuries, seeing a chiropractor regularly can have many benefits as well. It can be an excellent source of preventative maintenance for your body and help with recovery.

Join me as we go through 5  benefits of seeing a chiropractor you may not be aware of.

Minimize Migraines and Neck-Related Headaches

Chiropractic adjustments can help with chronic and acute headaches and neck pain. By manipulating the bones in your neck a chiropractor can release the build up of tension in your vertebrae and neck muscles. With less tension in your neck you may notice a decrease in neck related pains including tension headaches.

Some cases of migraines can leave some people unable to get out of bed, they can cause pain, nausea and sensitivity to light and in severe cases can be physically debilitating. Chiropractic care has been shown to help decrease the intensity of migraines in some patients. While others have noticed a significant drop in frequency of migraines. 

Improves Your Posture

Many people ignore their posture and tend to slouch when working long hours in the office or walking for long periods of time. By having poor posture you inadvertently leave your spine and joint miss aligned which can cause pain and soreness. 

By making adjustments to your shoulders, and spine a chiropractor can slowly move your joints back into the best position for good posture. Granted it is still up to you to maintain proper posture in order to avoid future problems. 

Reduces Pain and Improves Range of Motion

As we get older our bodies tend to lose some of our flexibility. But that shouldn’t be something we should accept all together. Yes, we’ll lose some range of motion, but many people see this and give up. They accept the loss of flexibility as a fact of life and won’t put the effort into maintaining the flexibility that they do have.

We still have the ability to keep much of our range of motion and flexibility; it’s just a bit more difficult to maintain. That’s when chiropractic adjustments come in. With regular chiropractic care many patients notice a return of range of motion and flexibility of their joints.

Reduces Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms of arthritis among Americans affecting over 32.5 million Americans. This doesn’t mean you should be relegated to dealing with this pain. For osteoarthritis, chiropractic care is usually safe, natural, non-invasive and an effective treatment to reduce pain in your back, arms and legs. Chiropractic care can greatly improve the function of arthritis joints

Arthritic conditions caused by inflammatory disease like rheumatoid arthritis should practice caution. Speak with your primary care provider and make sure it’s safe for you to have chiropractic done.

Treats Minor Neck or Spine Injuries

If you’ve ever been in a  car accident you understand well how painful whiplash can be. In general neck injuries can result from sports injuries, falls or other traumas. Symptoms of whiplash don’t appear right away, typically a day after an incident some symptoms can develop while other symptoms can appear days after.

Chiropractic care can be beneficial for neck injuries and sprains. A chiropractor will identify which spinal joints are being restricted or show abnormal motion. Using a gentile thrust technique they can stretch the soft tissue and stimulate the nervous system to restore normal movement to the spine.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

What Herbs are Proven Effective by the Department of Health?

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Herbs were the first medicine used by people. For thousands of years herbs have been used to treat illnesses and ailments. In modern history pharmaceuticals have replaced herbal remedies. Although many pharmaceuticals used now were derived from herbs or mimic the the benefits of herbs. In more recent times herbal medicine and supplements have made a bit of a resurgence. For a variety of reasons including them being more affordable, and easier to obtain compared to their pharmaceutical counterparts.

Today we’ll go over 10 medical plants endorsed by the Department of Health (DOH). These have been scientifically validated to ensure their safety and efficacy.

What is Herbal Medicine?

First let’s understand what herbal medicine is.

Herbal medicine is a product made from plant leaves, roots, seeds, berries, bark or flowers that are useful in treating disease or maintaining health. When the herbal medicine is taken by mouth it is called an herbal supplement. 

Although many herbs and supplements sold in stores are considered safe, it’s highly recommended that you consult an herbalist who can direct you to high quality supplements. Most herbal supplements aren’t regulated as strictly as pharmaceuticals. This can result in a contaminated product or a product that isn’t as potent as described on the label. Consulting an herbalist will also shed light on any adverse reactions herbal supplements may have with medicine you may be taking.

10 Medicinal Plants Endorsed by the DOH-PITAHC

Akapulko

The akapulko plant commonly known as Senna or Ringworm Bush is a small tree known to contain chrysophanol acid. Chrysophanol acid has been shown to be effective when treating conditions such as scabies, eczema, insect bites and other skin infections.

Ampalaya

Also known as Bitter Melon, has been used in China for centuries for medicine and cooking. The leaves of the ampalaya plant have been used to lower blood sugar levels. Though blood sugar levels should be monitored regularly to avoid any complications.

Bawang

A Philippine variety of garlic has been known and used during World War II because of its antibacterial properties. Garlic contains a compound known as allicin which acts as an antiseptic. The leaves and bulbs can also be used to lower blood cholesterol levels.

Bayabas

Commonly known as Guava, these fruit trees can be seen in many homes in southern California. The fruit can be eaten as a snack, but can also help with diarrhea. While the leaves can be used as an antiseptic.

Lagundi

The leaves from the Lagundi tree also known as Five-leaved chaste tree have been shown to prevent the body from producing leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are released when having an asthma attack. It can also be used to treat coughs, the common cold and fevers.

Niyog-niyogan

Also called Chinese honeysuckle, the Niyog-Niyogan’s leaves can be applied to the head to relieve headaches. While the seeds can be taken as an  anthelmintic.

Sambong

The sombong leaves and flowers are used for a variety of conditions including fever, choughs and headaches. It can also be used as a diuretic, and it can dissolve kidney stones. 

Tsaang-gubat

Also called wild tea or scorpion bush, in folkloric medicine the leaves have been used to treat diarrhea. In recent years, products made by Tsaang-gubat  can help with gastroenteritis. Or tea can be made and gargled to prevent cavities.

Ulasimang bato

Also known as peperomia pellucida, the ulasimang bato is a small herb with heart shaped leaves known for its analgesic properties. The leaves can be made into an infusion or salad to help relieve pain caused by gout or rheumatic pains. It can also be used topically for boils and abscesses.

Yerba Buena 

Commonly known as peppermint, yerba buena has been used for centuries as tea and as a pain reliever. It is still drunk as a tea to reduce cough, nausea, and dizziness. It’s also used to reduce pain and pruritus which is an uncomfortable sensation of itchiness.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.

What Diseases are Treated with Herbs?

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Medicinal Herbs
Medicinal herbs can sometimes help treat diseases.

Herbs have been used as treatment for diseases and ailments for centuries around the world. Today, the popularity of herbal medicine has increased, many Americans have chosen to seek herbal medicine for treatment due to it being more affordable and easier to obtain compared to its pharmaceutical counterparts. 

But what diseases are treated with herbs? 

What should I keep in mind when looking for herbal treatment for my condition?

Join me as we discover the answers to these questions and more.

What is an Herbal Supplement?

When a product is made for internal use with plants, roots or any other botanical to maintain health or treat a condition it is known as an herbal supplement. Though you need to practice precaution when looking for herbal supplements on your own. Just because a product is labeled as “natural” it doesn’t necessarily mean the product is safe for consumption.

Unfortunately herbal medicine and supplements do not go through the same testing that pharmaceuticals go through. Even when many over the counter medicine is derived from herbs,  herbal supplements themselves aren’t regulated as strictly. If you are thinking about using herbal medicine as a treatment, be sure to consult your herbal pharmacist. They should be able to either supply reliable herbal medicine or show you what brands are reputable and safe. At SOHMA Integrative Medicine in Long Beach, we only carry hand selected herbal supplements that are held to the highest standards of quality and reliability.

Herbal supplements can be produced in many forms, and can be used in a variety of ways such as:

  • Pills
  • Powders
  • Teas
  • Tinctures
  • Gels
  • Lotions
  • Bath Additives

Herbal supplements aren’t for everyone. If you are unsure if you should begin treatment with herbal supplements, first consult with an herbal pharmacist. Some herbal medicines can have adverse reactions with prescribed pharmaceuticals.

What can Herbal Medicine Treat?

Although self diagnosis is highly discouraged, some herbs tend to be common treatment options for certain diseases. These include:

Aloe Vera

Used as a gel topically aloe vera can treat burns, psoriasis and osteoarthritis. It can also be consumed orally to treat digestive issues like constipation and gastritis. 

Aloe vera leaves contain latex which can lead to allergic reactions causing rashes, burning sensation and irritation. When consumed aloe vera may cause your blood sugar levels to drop and its laxative effects can lead to dehydration.

Black Cohosh

Black cohosh is used to treat symptoms of menopause including hot flashes and nightsweats.

Side effects are mild but include: nausea, skin rashes, muscle pain, breast pain or bleeding outside of your menstrual cycle.

Echinacea

Also known as the purple coneflower, echinacea is used as a preventative against the common cold and flu. It is also used to boost the body’s immune system.

Common side effects include: nausea,vomiting, sore throat, drowsiness and headaches.

Evening Primrose

Oil derived from evening primrose can be used for breast pain, arthritis and reducing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Side effects are extremely rare however, allergic reactions can happen including: rashes, itching, swelling, dizziness and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms seek immediate medical care.

Feverfew

Used as a pain reliever, good for headaches and menstrual cramps.

Mild side effects may include: canker sores, constipation, indigestion, nausea and diarrhea.

Flaxseed

An excellent source of fiber and omega 3 fatty acids, flaxseed can also be used to lower cholesterol.

When consuming flaxseed oil it can cause diarrhea. Other side effects include bloating, stomach ache, constipation and gas.

Garlic

While also used in the kitchen, garlic is generally used to lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

When consumed as a supplement garlic can have mild side effects like: bad breath and body odor, diarrhea, stomach aches and indigestion.

Ginkgo Biloba

Typically used to help older adults with conditions associated with aging, it can also be used for anxiety, depression, headaches and poor blood circulation.

Common side effects include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headaches, stomach aches and insomnia.

Green Tea

One of the most commonly consumed drinks in the world, green tea can boost energy levels, lower cholesterol and help lose weight.

Consuming green tea late in the day can cause insomnia and restlessness when trying to sleep. When brewed too strongly, green tea can cause stomach irritation. Other side effects include anemia, iron deficiency, headaches and dizziness.

St. John’s Wort

Commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia and depression.

Side effects are rare, but can be serious. These include: dark stool, bruising, bleeding, or vomit containing black particles. Stop taking St. John’s wort and seek medical attention if you notice any of these side effects.

This list is only meant to be informational and should not be used to self diagnose. Many herbal supplements may have adverse reactions to prescribed pharmaceuticals, take precaution and speak with your herbal pharmacist and primary care provider if you feel like beginning an herbal treatment for your condition.

Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine

Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health. 

Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.

We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.