Hongda Shen

Hongda Shen provides skilled Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Mental Emotional Sleep

• Addiction Support (e.g., Smoking Cessation, Substance Cravings - NADA Protocol): Auricular (ear) and body acupuncture protocols, such as the NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) protocol, to help reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms (anxiety, irritability, insomnia), and calm the nervous system during smoking cessation or recovery from other substance dependencies.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Support (TCM): Supportive TCM care to help restore a sense of safety, peace, and emotional resilience for those affected by trauma.
• Insomnia & Various Sleep Disorders (e.g., Difficulty Falling/Staying Asleep, Dream-Disturbed Sleep): Acupuncture, herbal formulas, and lifestyle advice to address different types of sleep disturbances by harmonizing Yin and Yang, calming the mind, anchoring the Shen, and resolving underlying TCM patterns such as Heart Fire, Liver Qi Stagnation disturbing the Hun, Spleen Qi Deficiency leading to overthinking, or Kidney Yin Deficiency with empty heat.

Womens Health Gynecological

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) & Endometriosis - TCM Supportive Care: Addressing underlying TCM patterns such as Kidney deficiency, Spleen Qi deficiency with Dampness, Liver Qi stagnation, and Blood stasis commonly seen in these complex gynecological conditions.
• Fertility Enhancement & Infertility Support (For All Genders): Addressing underlying TCM imbalances that may affect fertility in any gender, such as Kidney essence deficiency, Blood stasis, Qi stagnation, Cold in the Uterus, or Damp-Heat affecting the reproductive system.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. TCM diagnosis is based on individual patterns, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Hongda can assess your needs.

• Classical & Patent Chinese Herbal Formulas: Using established and time-tested patent herbal remedies (Cheng Yao) that have been trusted for generations to address specific symptoms or support overall health and organ system balance.
• Herbal Medicine Preparation & Counseling: Providing guidance on the preparation and proper usage of prescribed herbal formulas, including decoction instructions for raw herbs, dosage for granules or pills, and advice on potential dietary interactions or lifestyle adjustments to enhance herbal efficacy.
• Electroacupuncture: Combining traditional acupuncture with modern microcurrent technology to amplify pain relief, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue healing and nerve regeneration.
• Motor Point Acupuncture / Dry Needling (TCM Context): Precise needling of tight muscle bands and trigger points to reduce pain, improve local circulation, and restore normal muscle tone and movement patterns.
• Scalp Acupuncture (Neuroacupuncture): A contemporary acupuncture technique involving the insertion of needles into specific therapeutic zones on the scalp that correspond to different body functions and brain areas (e.g., motor, sensory, balance zones), primarily used for neurological disorders, stroke rehabilitation, chronic pain, and psycho-emotional conditions.
• Customized Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescription (R.TCMP Scope): Expert formulation of potent Chinese herbal remedies based on classical TCM principles and modern research, designed to treat specific ailments, strengthen the body, and support long-term constitutional health.
• Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture / Acupressure / Ear Seeds: Stimulation of specific reflex points on the ear (auricle) using fine needles, small seeds (e.g., vaccaria seeds), or beads affixed with tape to treat various health conditions throughout the body, based on the principle that the ear is a microsystem reflecting the entire body.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Hongda, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Registered TCM Practitioners in ON and the standards set by The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

At MINDA NATURAL HEALTH & ACUPUNC, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Hongda frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• When uncomfortable menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, or mood changes is limiting your lifestyle, acupuncture and TCM with Hongda can help you work towards feeling significantly calmer, less anxious, and more emotionally balanced and resilient, aiming to restore harmony and optimal function so you can comfortably and safely enjoy attending concerts or theatre shows and sitting comfortably throughout.
• Experiencing circulatory problems, feeling cold often, or having cold hands and feet can be draining. Hongda utilizes acupuncture and other TCM methods to aim for significant and lasting reduction in acute or chronic pain levels, so patients can re-engage with engaging in gentle exercises like Tai Chi, Qigong, or yoga with improved balance, flexibility, and energy flow feeling revitalized.
• Through the gentle yet powerful methods of TCM, Hongda assists patients with heartburn, acid reflux, or general indigestion after meals in reaching effective alleviation of some common side effects associated with conventional medical treatments like chemotherapy, fostering a return to beloved activities like having more regular and comfortable menstrual cycles, allowing for uninterrupted daily life and activities.
• Restoring harmony is key in TCM. For skin problems like eczema, persistent acne, psoriasis, or unexplained hives, Hongda crafts treatments to achieve enhanced fertility potential, optimized reproductive health, and better support during pregnancy and postpartum, supporting a return to activities like cycling longer distances with their cycling club without discomfort with comfort and confidence.

Your personalized TCM treatment plan, developed with Hongda, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic and time-tested approach.

Hongda practices at MINDA NATURAL HEALTH & ACUPUNC, situated in the Carlington, Copeland Park, and Carleton Heights neighbourhoods of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Lansdowne Park (TD Place Stadium/Arena) and is easily accessible via OC Transpo, including the O-Train LRT and bus routes. Our clinic is accessible and offers a serene environment for healing. Street parking is often available nearby.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qi (pronounced 'chee') is often translated as 'vital energy' or 'life force.' It’s considered the fundamental energy that flows throughout the body, responsible for all physiological processes, movement, warmth, and protection against illness. Meridians (or channels) are specific pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate. These pathways connect the internal organs with the exterior parts of the body, including muscles, skin, and sensory organs. Acupuncture points are specific locations along these meridians where the flow of Qi can be accessed and influenced to restore balance and health.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body called acupoints. According to TCM theory, this helps to stimulate and balance the flow of Qi (vital energy) along pathways known as meridians. Acupuncture can help by reducing pain, alleviating stress and anxiety, improving sleep, regulating bodily functions (like digestion and hormones), boosting the immune system, and promoting overall well-being by encouraging the body's natural healing abilities.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Acupuncture and TCM services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) in a private clinic are generally NOT covered by provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Patients typically pay out-of-pocket. It's advisable to check your private or extended health insurance plans, as many offer some coverage for services provided by registered practitioners, though coverage varies significantly.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Registered TCM Practitioner in ON?

Patients in Ontario can typically see a Registered TCM Practitioner (such as a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner) directly without a physician's referral (known as direct access). However, while a referral is not legally required, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It’s best to verify your insurance policy requirements.

Are Chinese Herbal Medicines safe? (If prescribed by an R.TCMP or Dr.TCM)

When prescribed by a qualified and Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) or Doctor of TCM (Dr.TCM), who has extensive training in herbal pharmacology, Chinese herbal formulas are generally safe and effective. R.TCMPs are trained to identify herb quality, potential herb-drug interactions, and contraindications for specific health conditions or during pregnancy. It’s important to inform your practitioner about all medications and health conditions. Avoid self-prescribing or purchasing herbs from unreliable sources to prevent risks of incorrect diagnosis, contamination, or adverse interactions. R.TCMPs often source herbs from trusted suppliers that perform quality testing.

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and how can a Registered TCM Practitioner help?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive medical system used for thousands of years to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness. It includes acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle advice. A Registered TCM Practitioner uses these therapies to identify and correct imbalances in the body’s Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, addressing the root causes of health issues. TCM aims to restore harmony and promote long-term health across a wide range of conditions.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

For most individuals, acupuncture is not painful. The needles are very thin, and many feel little to no discomfort upon insertion. Some sensations like a slight pinch, warmth, or tingling may occur, which indicate effective stimulation of Qi. Many patients feel relaxed or even fall asleep during treatments. Practitioners are trained to use sterile, single-use needles and follow safety protocols. If you experience any pain, inform your practitioner immediately.

MINDA NATURAL HEALTH & ACUPUNC
300-1390 Prince of Wales Dr.
Ottawa, ON, K2C 3N6

Phone: (613) 796-2688

Hongda Shen is regulated by the Traditional Chinese Medicine Act, 2006 in ON and is a registered member of The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario.

Verify registration with The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario: https://www.ctcmpao.on.ca/member-profile/?contactid=24b1283f-bd76-e611-80c3-005056a97495

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are holistic therapies. It is recommended to also consult with your medical doctor for diagnosis of serious conditions and for emergency medical care. TCM can often complement conventional treatments effectively.