We commonly see and treat patients in the acupuncture clinic with this condition. Hashimoto’s syndrome has far reaching consequences for the immune system and our treatments balance immune function and regulate the symptoms of fatigue.

“Star Trek Beyond” star Zoe Saldana has revealed that she has an autoimmune disease. Saldana said during an interview with The Edit that she has Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

“Your body doesn’t have the energy it needs to filter toxins, causing it to believe that it has an infection, so it’s always inflamed,” Saldana said. “You create antibodies that attack your glands, so you have to eat clean.”

http://m.wbaltv.com/entertainment/zoe-saldana-has-hashimotos-thyroiditis/40822780

The longest days of the year are upon us. Light streams in between the window shades by 6 am, waking us perhaps a bit too early. The sun rises high and our shadows are short. There is a glow in the western sky until well past 9 pm. It is not surprising that the ancient Chinese considered this time of year to be ruled by Fire, as the ultimate fire in the sky – our sun – dominates.

In our bodies the Fire element is associated with the Heart energy. Imbalances of the Heart most commonly manifest as sleep disturbances, and insomnia issues can become more   during the long days. People with excess Fire can experience skin eruptions and sores in the gums and tongue. Heat symptoms in general such as hot flashes and fevers can exacerbate during this time. Each element in Chinese medicine is associated with a taste, which for the fire element is bitter. Fresh bitter greens are a wonderful tonic at this time. Also now is the time of year when a little cold and raw food – normally not recommended in Chinese medicine – is a good yin counterbalance to the hot yang weather. The earth yields melons and fruits at this time, so enjoy!

There is a healthy Fire that humans should have. The Heart in Chinese medicine houses the mind, and a healthy fire in our Heart manifests as dynamic, joyful engagement with others and with the world generally. An excess Fire can slip into mania, a deficient Fire into depression. Always Chinese medicine is about a healthy balance between all the elements. A seasonal acupuncture tune up this time of year is a good way to maintain this balance and encourage a healthy Fire in ourselves.