Traditional Chinese Medicine NYC | Herbal Medicine NYC
Chinese herbal medicine has been practiced for thousands of years to support healing, restore balance, and improve long-term wellness. Unlike symptom-focused treatments, herbal therapy works at the root of imbalance, helping the body regulate hormones, improve digestion, calm the nervous system, and strengthen immunity over time.
At ACA Acupuncture & Wellness, every herbal formula is customized by licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners based on your unique constitution, health history, and current symptoms. Herbs are used as standalone therapy or integrated with acupuncture, cupping, or diet therapy to enhance outcomes and support sustainable healing.
How does Chinese herbal medicine work at ACA?
At ACA, we use Chinese herbs to treat the underlying causes of illness more than individual symptoms. We apply a comprehensive approach by using herbs to treat physical, emotional, and spiritual problems. Once a doctor knows a patient’s specific needs and diagnoses the patient, the doctor will create a custom formula for the patient. Individualization is our feature. We care for our patients, track the patient’s situations, and provide holistic aftercare plans to give our patients the best treatment experience.
Conditions We Treat
Circulation & Cardiometabolic Health
Poor blood circulation, Diabetes, Hypertension, Fatty liver, Kidney health / Kidney Stones
Digestive & Metabolic Function
Constipation, Digestive Issues, Weight loss, Bloating and Gas
Hormonal, Reproductive & Sexual Health
Women’s health, Fertility & pregnancy, Menopause, PCOS, Hormone balance, Menstrual Health, Men’s health (Libido, ED, Vitality), Prostatitis (Prostate Inflammation)
Neurological & Nervous System
Nerve regeneration, Anxiety, Depression, Emotional Balance, Insomnia, Fatigue
Respiratory & Immune
Allergies, Asthma, Bronchitis, Sore Throat, Chronic Cough
Musculoskeletal & Pain Disorders
Arthritis, Pain management, Headaches & migraines, Joint pain, Muscle spasms, Sciatica, Pre & post-surgery support
Skin & Hair Conditions
What to Expect From Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding what happens before, during, and after treatment helps set expectations and ensures herbs are prescribed safely and effectively. Each plan at ACA Acupuncture and Wellness is tailored to your constitution, health history, and long-term wellness goals.
Before Session
During your initial consultation, practitioners review your medical history, symptom patterns, sleep, digestion, and stress levels. Diagnostic methods such as tongue and pulse readings help determine your underlying TCM pattern. This assessment ensures herbs are selected to address both symptoms and root causes.
During Treatment
A customized herbal formula is prescribed in the form of teas, granules, capsules, or tinctures depending on your needs and preferences. Formulas are often adjusted over time as symptoms change and balance improves. Diet or lifestyle recommendations may also be provided to enhance treatment effectiveness.
After Treatment
Patients generally notice gradual improvements as the herbs support internal regulation and systemic harmony. Changes may be observed in digestion, sleep, mood, energy, metabolic function, or menstrual patterns depending on the condition treated. Consistency is important, especially for chronic or long-standing health concerns.
Enhance Your Wellness with Herbal Solutions
- Healthy Weight Regulation
- Natural Energy Support
- Balancing Internal Heat & Irritation
- Hormonal + Cycle Support
Herbal formulas may support healthy weight regulation by improving digestion and fluid metabolism.
When digestion functions more efficiently, Dampness and bloating are less likely to accumulate.
This can help reduce fluid retention, stress-related cravings, and stubborn plateaus over time.
As balance returns, weight management becomes more sustainable without harsh stimulants.
Qi-tonifying herbs nourish the body’s internal energy reserves to promote steady stamina.
By working through root deficiencies rather than forcing stimulation, energy becomes more consistent.
Improved circulation and mental clarity allow patients to focus without jittery highs or crashes.
Over time, this steady vitality helps the body handle physical and cognitive demands with more ease.
Clearing internal Heat may reduce irritability, restlessness, and inflammatory responses.
When Yin is nourished and Heat is moderated, the nervous system becomes calmer and more grounded.
This can lead to more comfortable digestion, better sleep patterns, and a more stable mood.
With Heat under control, the body regains internal comfort and long-term equilibrium.
Herbal medicine may help harmonize hormones by smoothing Liver Qi and nourishing Blood.
As circulation improves, PMS discomfort, bloating, and emotional tension often ease naturally.
Optimizing cycle regularity also supports fertility, postpartum recovery, and reproductive vitality.
During menopause, nourishing Yin and clearing Heat helps reduce hot flashes, sleep disruption, and irritability.
Benefits of Chinese Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine may provide benefits such as:
Digestive Support & Metabolic Balance
Herbal formulas can harmonize digestive function, regulate fluid metabolism, and support nutrient absorption.
Sleep, Stress & Emotional Regulation
Calming or Yin-nourishing herbs may promote restorative sleep, reduce restlessness, and help regulate irritability, anxiety, and tension.
Immune Strength & Seasonal Resilience
Tonifying herbs may strengthen defenses during seasonal transitions or periods of increased exposure.
Women’s Health & Reproductive Support
Herbal formulas may support menstrual comfort, ovulation, fertility, and menopausal transitions by improving circulation and organ harmony.
Energy & Inflammatory Balance
Qi-tonifying herbs may enhance stamina without stimulants, while addressing internal inflammatory patterns that can influence skin clarity and texture.
Safety Considerations, Mild Effects, and Professional Care
Licensed Herbal Practitioner Requirement
Proper training ensures correct diagnosis, dosing, and monitoring.
Common Mild Effects
Some patients may experience:
- Temporary digestive changes
- Mild warmth or circulation changes
- Subtle shifts in sleep or energy as balance improves
Client Testimonials
Our Trusted Practitioners
Zhou, Yu L.Ac
“I am passionate about alleviating people’s suffering through the art of natural healing.”
Yu Zhou began her acupuncture journey after experiencing transformative healing herself. A graduate of PCHS in New York, she specializes in abdominal acupuncture under the mentorship of Dr. Liu Yanzhu. Yu treats a wide range of conditions, including pain, digestive disorders, stress, anxiety, insomnia, and hormonal imbalances, with a focus on providing effective and compassionate care.
Lu, Rong L.Ac
“Healing is an art rooted in Nature, and a true physician begins with an open mind and a deep connection to its principles.”
Rong Lu earned her master’s degree from Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine through a prestigious seven-year bachelor-master program in the combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Clinical Medicine. She is a medical doctor in China.
Her expertise lies in infertility treatments, including support for IUI and IVF, as well as addressing PMS, menopause syndrome, PCOS, abnormal uterine bleeding, hormone imbalances, and painful periods. Rong also has extensive experience in treating neck and back pain, headaches and migraines, allergies, sinus issues, and gastrointestinal disorders. She is dedicated to providing holistic care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Aifeng, Song L.Ac
Aifeng Song is a NY and PA licensed acupuncturist who has earned an NCCAOM Acupuncture Diploma, NCCAOM Oriental Medicine Diploma. She graduated from New York College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and received her Oriental Medicine Ph. D from the American Academy of Health and Wellness and currently working on her second Ph. D at Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Dr. Song’s research and clinical trials focus on internal medicine and acupuncture. She specializes in insomnia, arthritis, headache/migraine, neck/shoulder/lower back pain, infertility, menstrual disorders, digestive disease, and allergy.
Wei Yuan M.D., L.Ac
Dr. Wei Yuan is a medical doctor trained in both Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine. She spent 10 years at Luoyang Hospital in China as a resident and later chief acupuncturist and instructor. She then conducted cancer research at Columbia University Medical School and worked as a research scientist at Boehringer-Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals for 10 years before returning to acupuncture. Dr. Yuan is also a certified practitioner and instructor of Field Control Therapy (FCT) and homeopathy.
She combines extensive clinical experience in Western Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Homeopathy, with deep knowledge in basic medical sciences and drug toxicology. Dr. Yuan is a licensed acupuncturist, a board member of the United Alliance of New York State Licensed Acupuncturists, and certified in Clean Needle Technique by the CCAOM. She continues to deliver the highest level of patient care, drawing on her diverse and distinguished background.
Meiran Liu, L.Ac
Meiran holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Chinese Medicine from the most prestigious universities in China. She was an attending doctor at the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences in Beijing for over 7 years before moving to New York. She is a New York State licensed acupuncturist also a diplomat of Oriental Medicine by NCCAOM.
Meiran has more than 15 years of experience in acupuncture treatment and specializes in treating illnesses in Ophthalmology, myopia, reproductive system, infertility, and all kinds of complicated syndromes.
She is passionate about practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine. She goes above and beyond to care for her patients. Her dedication can often be seen when she works on her patients.
READ MORE ABOUT TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE
Chinese Herbs for Pain Relief: Traditional Chinese Medicine to Ease Discomfort Naturally
by ACA Acupuncture
Pain is an experience that connects us all, yet the way we address it can vary dramatically. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a unique and holistic approach to pain relief, focusing not only on alleviating discomfort but also on restoring balance within the body.
What Is Traditional Chinese Medicine? A Guide to Stress Relief and Emotional Balance
by ACA Acupuncture
Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM, is an ancient healthcare system that focuses on the balance and harmony of energy within the body and mind. It centers on the vital life force called Qi, which flows through pathways known as meridians, and strives to maintain equilibrium between the opposing forces of Yin and Yang.
How Emotions Influence Organ Health in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Understanding How Organs Respond to Feelings
by ACA Acupuncture
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) takes a holistic view, recognizing that our feelings and internal organs are closely linked. When emotions become imbalanced, they can disrupt the flow of Qi, our vital energy, and lead to physical symptoms that reflect deeper disharmony.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does herbal treatment typically take to work?
Herbal medicine works gradually and cumulatively. Some patients notice changes within days, especially for digestion or sleep, while chronic conditions may take several weeks to improve.
Are serious reactions to herbs common?
Serious reactions are uncommon, but they can happen with improper self-prescribing, unsafe sourcing, or herb-drug interactions. Professional guidance helps reduce these risks.
Do Chinese herbs interact with medications or supplements?
Certain herbs may interact with prescription drugs or supplements. This is why our practitioners review your current regimen and customize formulas for safety and compatibility.
How does Traditional Chinese Medicine personalise treatment for different types of internal Heat?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, internal Heat is not viewed as a single pattern. The Five Fires framework explains how Heat may manifest differently depending on the organ system involved. Heart Fire may contribute to insomnia, anxiety, or mouth ulcers. Liver Fire may be associated with irritability, headaches, or red eyes. Stomach Fire may present as excessive hunger or acid reflux. Lung Fire may show up as coughing or throat irritation. Kidney Fire may manifest as night sweats or hot flashes. Identifying which type of Fire is involved helps practitioners choose formulas that address both the visible symptoms and the underlying energetic imbalance. Treatment is then personalised based on the full clinical picture, including symptoms, tongue and pulse findings, and possible contributing factors such as diet, overwork, stress, or hormonal changes. Herbal medicine may also be combined with acupuncture, nutrition, and stress reduction to support longer-term wellness.
What forms do Chinese herbs come in?
Herbs may be prescribed as raw decoctions, granules, capsules, tinctures, or external preparations. The form depends on your condition, lifestyle, and preference.
How often are formulas adjusted?
Formulas are typically reviewed every one to four weeks based on progress, seasonal shifts, or symptom changes. Adjustments help match the evolving pattern rather than treating a static diagnosis.
Are Chinese herbs tested for quality and purity?
Reputable suppliers screen herbs for identity, potency, heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants. ACA uses regulated suppliers to ensure safety and consistent quality.
Do I need an initial consultation before starting treatment?
Yes. An initial consultation is required for all patients before starting treatment. This allows us to review your health history, identify patterns, and choose herbal formulas safely and appropriately. During your consultation, please let us know if you take prescription medications, are pregnant or breastfeeding, have known herb sensitivities, or have chronic liver, kidney, or metabolic conditions. This helps ensure your formula is properly customised and prescribed with the highest standard of safety.
Contact ACA Acupuncture & Wellness
Request An Appointment:
Schedule an appointment at one of our New York locations.
Washington Heights, NY
(212) 927-8039
Mon-Fri: 9:00AM – 7:00PM
Sat: 9:30AM – 7:00PM
Sun: 9:30AM – 5:30PM
Upper East Side, NY
(646) 998-4886
Mon-Fri: 9:00AM – 7:00PM
Sat-Sun: 10:00AM – 6:00PM
Union Square, NY
(212) 228-5688
Fri-Tue: 10:00AM – 6:00PM
Wed-Thur: 9:00AM – 8:00PM
Columbus Circle, NY
(646) 438-9255
Mon – Fri: 9:00AM – 7:00PM
Financial District, NY
(646) 858-0138
Mon-Fri: 9:00AM – 7:00PM
Grand Central, NY
(917) 261-6835
Mon–Sat, 10AM – 6PM
ACA Herald Square
(212) 457-6252
Mon-Sun: 10:00AM – 8:00PM
ACA Nomad
(845) 553-1040
Mon-Sat: 10:00AM – 6:00PM
ACA Carnegie Hill
(845) 314-9115
Mon – Fri: 10:00AM – 6:00PM
ACA Midtown East
(646) 843-0091
Mon-Sat: 11:00AM – 7:00PM
ACA Upper West Side
(212) 837-1067
Coming Soon
Bayside Queens, NY
(718) 229-4688
Mon-Sun: 10:00AM – 6:00PM
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