Dr. Esther Shu-Wei Lu, DAcCHM, DiplOM, LAc

A Short Introduction

My journey towards becoming a Chinese Medicine practitioner ignited during my childhood as I watched my grandfather prescribe and prepare herbs for his patients. Listening to the captivating stories of my great-grandfather, who was also a Chinese Medicine practitioner in China, further fueled my passion for this ancient healing tradition. I feel immensely proud to present the 4th generation in my family to practice Chinese Medicine.

While studying abroad in Singapore during my Secondary education, I gained a profound appreciation for the importance of self-care, largely thanks to the invaluable assistance of Chinese Medicine. The practices and principles of Chinese Medicine played a pivotal role in improving my overall well-being throughout this period. This positive experience has fueled my ambition to share the remarkable benefits of Chinese Medicine with others.

My philosophy

My philosophy centers on promoting healing and overall wellness through proactive self-care and preventative medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) aligns seamlessly with this approach, offering a holistic perspective that acknowledges the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit. By incorporating TCM practices such as acupuncture, herbal remedies, and lifestyle adjustments, individuals can address imbalances and enhance their well-being.

In my role, I share the profound knowledge of TCM to empower patients to take charge of their health. This involves understanding the principles of TCM, making informed choices tailored to individual constitutions, and adopting practices that resonate with their health goals. This proactive approach not only addresses current health concerns but also serves as a foundation for preventing future issues.

I believe in the transformative power of true healing, which extends beyond symptom alleviation to cultivating balance and harmony within the body. With its time-tested practices and holistic principles, TCM plays a vital role in guiding individuals toward sustained wellness. Through the integration of TCM wisdom and the promotion of self-care, I aim to inspire individuals on a journey toward healing and a life characterized by enduring health and vitality.

My Education in Acupuncture

I hold a Master of Science in Traditional Oriental Medicine from the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine – NY (Now Pacific College of Health and Science), where I received comprehensive training in acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and other traditional healing modalities.

I also received additional training in facial rejuvenation acupuncture, NYU Langone Hospital/Acupuncture for Labor and Delivery, and Veterans Administration Hospital/Pain Management Center in New York City. I am a licensed acupuncturist in the District of Columbia, Virginia, and New York State. I am also accredited by the National Certification Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), and I continually update my knowledge and skills through ongoing professional development and continuing education programs.

In my study of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), I have developed a profound appreciation for the diverse treatment modalities it encompasses. Beyond the well-known practices of acupuncture and herbal medicine, I’ve delved into a rich array of techniques, including Massage, Moxibustion, GuaSha, Cupping, TaiChi, QiGong, and numerous others.

This holistic approach to healing not only encompasses traditional methods but also provides a comprehensive understanding of contemporary medicine. The broad spectrum of techniques allows for a more nuanced and integrative approach to healthcare, enriching my study and appreciation for the intricacies of TCM.

My Patients

I aim to create an environment where patients feel supported, understood, and empowered during treatments. I want them to feel actively engaged in their healthcare journey. My goal is for patients to experience comfort and trust, knowing their well-being is a shared priority.

Working with patients is a gratifying experience for me. I find fulfillment in building relationships, guiding individuals toward better health, and witnessing their progress. The collaborative aspect of patient care is particularly rewarding, as it allows me to learn from my patients and tailor treatments to suit their preferences and goals.

I’ve observed significant improvements in my patients’ well-being through a patient-centered approach. Patients become more committed to their treatment plans by involving them in the decision-making process. This collaborative effort often results in better adherence to recommendations, leading to positive outcomes and enhanced overall health. The empowerment and active participation of patients in their healthcare decisions contribute significantly to the success of their treatments.

I would like to specialize in…

I specialize in pain management, focusing on helping patients find relief from various conditions. This area of practice is particularly interesting to me because of its multidimensional nature. Pain management involves addressing not only the physical symptoms but also considering the broader impact on a patient’s well-being, including their mental and emotional health.

In my years of practice, I have worked with a diverse range of patients, each presenting unique health challenges. This experience has allowed me to develop expertise in treating a spectrum of conditions, including stress and anxiety, digestive disorders, women’s health concerns (such as menstrual irregularities and fertility support), respiratory conditions like asthma and allergies, as well as insomnia and sleep disorders.

By employing a holistic and individualized approach, I aim to alleviate immediate pain and provide ongoing support for my patients’ overall health and well-being. The satisfaction lies in witnessing positive results, where patients experience improved quality of life and resilience in managing their health concerns.

My passion and training for Chinese herbal medicine . . .

My passion and training in Chinese herbal medicine stem from its remarkable qualities and holistic approach to health. What is particularly great about Chinese herbal medicine is its time-tested efficacy in addressing a broad spectrum of health issues by promoting balance and harmony within the body. This ancient practice treats symptoms and targets the root causes of imbalances, fostering comprehensive well-being.

I believe people should consider utilizing Chinese herbal medicine for its personalized and tailored approach. The practice recognizes the uniqueness of each individual, allowing for the creation of customized herbal formulations based on one’s specific constitution and health needs. This individualized aspect contributes to the effectiveness of treatments, making Chinese herbal medicine a valuable and versatile option in natural healthcare.

One particular aspect of Chinese herbal medicine that resonates with me is its emphasis on preventive care. By addressing imbalances at an early stage and promoting overall health and vitality, Chinese herbal medicine offers a proactive approach to well-being. I appreciate how this aligns with the philosophy of maintaining health before illness arises, contributing to long-term wellness and a higher quality of life.

My favorite herb is…

My absolute favorite herb is Dà Huáng (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei). It’s an exceptionally potent and versatile herb known for its remarkable ability to address various health issues when combined with other herbs. Da Huang has been my lifesaver, stepping in to save me on not just one but two of my critical health occasions. I am excited to share my stories about how Da Huang saved my life!